The Dundalk High School Class of 1962 Scholarship
Recipients
Scholarship Awards to the Class of 2022
Winners of the Dundalk Class of 1962 Scholarship for 2022 are Panagiotis (Pete) Fafalios, Miguel Duran Sanchez, and Akema Mitchell.
This fall, Panagiotis Fafalios will be attending Johns Hopkins University to study Economics and Computer Science. Pete
was valedictorian of his class with an impressive weighted GPA of 5.40. Pete took numerous AP classes throughout high
school and scored highly on the SAT. Pete was also a part of the Computer Science and Cybersecurity magnet program at
Sollers Point Technical High School. He was Co-President of the National Honor Society and earned varsity letters in
both tennis and badminton. Pete was a member of the Maryland Center of School Safety Legislative Committee Student Focus
Group. He was also a very active member of the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) and earned Regional and State
Finalist awards in competitions.
This fall, Miguel Duran Sanchez will be attending Stevenson University to study business in order to help with his
family's business and to reach his goal of running his own business one day. Miguel plays several instruments, including
the alto saxophone, bass guitar, electric guitar, and acoustic drums. Miguel was also an important member of the Dundalk
High School Football team since the 9th grade. Faith is an important part of Miguel's life, and he is very involved in
his church. Miguel also enjoys volunteering and helping others in his community. He served with L.A. Street Ministries,
by helping to serve food and provide supplies to families in need and the elderly during the pandemic. Miguel provided
148 hours of service to the L.A. Street Ministries.
This Fall, Akema Mitchell will be attending Bowie State University to study Business Administration. After earning her
Bachelor's degree, Akema would like to earn her MBA. Her goal is to earn her MBA by the age of 23! Akema was also a part
of the Cosmetology magnet program at Sollers Point Technical High School. Through this program, Akema was able to earn
her Cosmetology license while in high school. In her free time, Akema enjoys helping out the homeless in Baltimore. Her
hobbies include cooking, baking, drawing, and cosmetology. She has taken gymnastics, ballet classes, swimming lessons,
played percussion instruments, and achieved a black belt in karate.
Scholarship Award to the Class of 2021
The winner of the 2021 Class of 1962 Scholarship is France Jimenez. This fall Ms. Jimenez will attend Loyola University
Maryland in Baltimore. She is interested in Sociology and Education with the objective of becoming a lawyer and helping
young people in poor neighborhoods. France's interests in high school have included academics, music, and athletics.
She has served as section leader in the Chamber Choir and played four musical instruments, including piano, guitar,
ukulele, and saxophone. She was a member of the soccer, basketball, and lacrosse teams and served as team captain.
Outside school, France tutored and cared for a younger brother and worked at the local Target store. France enjoys
writing, teaching, and working with younger children.
France has sent the following thank you letter to our scholarship comitttee:
Before I start with the good stuff, I would just simply like to explain why I have been MIA in the times you've tried to
get a hold of me. I work a part time job at Target, which has required 30+ hours of my time every week for about a year
now. Right along with that, I have been going through nothing but busy days with my family and their terrible planning.
In fact, my days off from work consist of just rest, because I believe it is essential for the soul. Considering I
dedicated the better half of the past 4+ years literally dedicating my entire being into school, I felt that I was
really due for days off, which I gave myself after graduating. So, that is where I have been, and I do apologize for
taking so long to get back to you.
Regarding my scholarship, I have no words except thank you. I understand that I only received this scholarship because I
was valedictorian, so I don't think you had much choice in the matter, but it still means a lot to me and my family. We
seriously need all the help we can get.
In the fall, I will be attending Loyola University (in Maryland) to major in Education, whilst participating in their
Pre-Law program. When I get older, I want to become an educational program attorney. If you'd like, I can explain to you
why in another email. I am nothing short of talented and brilliant, so I can personally assure you that you have made
the right 'choice' in making me the recipient of this scholarship. It will go to nothing except my education, maybe a
McDonald's meal after class one day but that would be the only time it wouldn't (kidding).
Nonetheless, I hope that this email reads well with you and the rest of the alumni whom you choose to share this with. I
, from the very bottom of my heart, am extremely grateful for all of you. Have a wonderful and amazing day, just as I
will.
Sincerely, France Jimenez
Scholarship Award to the Class of 2020
The winner of the Dundalk Class of 1962 Scholarship for 2020 is Jacob Hornberger. Jacob is an outstanding scholar with
a weighted GPA of 4.77. He will initially attend the Community College of Baltimore County for an Associates degree in
Biology. He then intends to apply to a four-year university to prepare for a career in medicine. Jacob's statements
about his future plans have shown his altruism and his concern for human suffering. The Class of 1962 is very proud of
this very accomplished young scholar and promising humanitarian.
Scholarship Award to the Class of 2019
The winner of the Class of '62 scholarship for 2019 is Sophia Pezza. Ms. Pezza plans to attend the University of Maryland in the fall
majoring in neurobiology and physiology. During high school Sophia participated in the Model United Nations and the Student
Government Association. She also competed in track and field, golf, and cheerleading.
Scholarship Awards to the Class of 2018
The winner of the Class of '62 scholarship was Anastasia Farley. Anastasia, who won other awards at the ceremony, was
also Valedictorian of the DHS Class of 2018. Ms. Farley plans to attend Susquehanna College in Pennsylvania in the
fall. Katie Paterka Roppelt, who won the first Class of 1962 scholarship 17 years ago, presented the award.
The recipient of the Class of 1962 Barbara Wernecke Durkin Scholarship award of $2000 for 2018 was Kayla
Newberger. This is the fifth and final year of the "Barb" award, which was entirely funded by Barbara's husband Bill
Durkin. Alice Jones Redmond presented the award. Dundalk High School's Class of 1962 has awarded over $116,000 to
extraordinarily talented and deserving seniors at DHS over the past 18 years.
Scholarship Awards to the Class of 2017
The recipient of the Class of 1962 scholarship for 2017 is Amanda Dove. Amanda will attend UMBC in the fall and study
mathematics. She made straight A's in high school. In her spare time she enjoys bowling and dancing. Her parents are
DHS grads and so is her grandmother (class of 65). Amanda is an outstanding young woman and will do a great job in
college. Summer Nevins, our 2015 winner presented the award.
The recipient of the Class of 1962 Barbara Wernecke Durkin Scholarship for 2017, funded by Bill Durkin, is Shamar
Stinnett. Shamar will attend Stevenson University and major in Theater and Media performance and minor in secondary
education. Our classmate Alice Jones Redmond presented the award.
Scholarship Awards to the Class of 2016
The recipient of the Class of 1962 scholarship for $7500 was Katelyn Ludwig. She planned to attend Notre Dame of Maryland
University with a major in nursing and a minor in psychology. She graduated from high school with a 3.4
GPA and a 4.67 QPA. Through a partnership with Dundalk High, Katelyn also attended the Academy of Health Professions at
Sollers Point Technical High School where she received a certification as a Nurse's Assistant and for CPR. Katelyn was
also a tri-athlete in high school and plans to play softball and participate in a volunteer service sorority at Notre
Dame.
The recipient of the Dundalk High School Class of 1962 Barbara Wernecke Durkin Scholarship for 2016 was Alexis
Moiseyenkov. Alexis was on the Honor Roll throughout high school, and was enrolled in the Advance Path Academy
throughout high school in order to graduate a year early. In her junior year she won an award in The Optimist Club essay
contest and she participated in the Model UN during her junior and senior years. Alexis was also active in the Dundalk
High athletic program including tennis and badminton. Her community activities included participation in the Fourth of
July parade with the Dundalk baseball team and fundraising with the U.S. Army. Alexis planned to enroll in the
Journalism program at Kingston University.
Scholarship Awards to the Class of 2015
The recipient of the 2015 Dundalk High Class of 1962 scholarship was Summer Nevins. Summer won the social studies
academic award, the Athletic Booster Club Scholar Award and the Girl of the Year award from the Optimist Club. The DHS
Faculty Committee that selected Summer told us that she took the maximum number of Advanced Placement courses and always
shows outstanding dedication. Summer plans to attend the University of Maryland in College Park where she will pursue a
major in a medical field.
The winner of the 2015 Barbara Wernecke Durkin Award was Steven Shaw. Steven was in the top 5% of his high school class
and will attend Barbara's alma mater at Towson University where he will study to be a high school teacher. This was the
second year for this scholarship, which was made possible by the generosity our classmate Barbara Warnecke. Click here to read more about Barbara.
Scholarship Awards to the Class of 2014
The recipient of the 2014 Dundalk High Class of 1962 scholarship for $7500 is Jacob Bass. Jacob was both a scholar and
athlete at Dundalk High. He had a 4.0 grade point average and was recognized as an AP Scholar with Distinction. He was
captain of the tennis team and the badminton team. Jacob plans to attend the University of Maryland Baltimore County
and is interested in studying Computer Engineering. The scholarship was presented at the May 2014 graduation ceremony
at the new Sollers Dundalk High School auditorium.
The recipient of the Dundalk High
Class of 1962 Barbara Wernecke Durkin Scholarship for 2014 for $2000 is Denisse Jimenez. Denisse was a member of the
National Honor Society and the Student Government Association. She played junior varsity and varsity volleyball and
competed in indoor track and she volunteered at St. Rita's Church. Denisse plans to attend St. Johns University in the
fall and is interested in drama, international business, and marketing. This was the first year for this scholarship,
which was made possible by the generosity our classmate Barbara Warnecke. Click here to read more about Barbara. Read the letter from Denisse.
Scholarship Award to the Class of 2013
The recipient of the Class of 1962 scholarship award for 2013 is Ijaz Ahmed. Ijaz is in the top 1% of the graduating
class with a 3.88 grade point average. In addition he is very active in school and community activities. Ijaz will be
attending University of Maryland, Baltimore County and will be studying Biomedical Engineering. The scholarship was
presented at the May graduation ceremony. Ijaz He is another great winner of our scholarship. In the past 11 years our
class has awarded $69,000 to very deserving seniors at Dundalk High.
View the video of the 2013 award presentation.
Scholarship Award to the Class of 2012
The recipient of the Class of 1962 scholarship award for 2012 is Kirsten Elan Taylor. Kirsten was Vice President of her
Senior Class, was President of the National Honor Society, and achieved a 3.93 GPA, which places her in the top 1% of the
senior class. In addition to our scholarship, Kirsten received the Business Academic Award, the Principal's
Discretionary Award, the Sollers Point Class of 1966 Scholarship, the DHS Positive Impact Scholarship, and the DHS Most
Involved Senior Award. She was also selected as the Optimist Club's Girl of the Year. Kirsten plans to attend St.
Edwards University, a small Catholic school in Austin Texas and intends to study psychology. After graduation from
college she plans to either go on a church mission or join the Peace Corps. The $6200 scholarship was presented at the
May graduation ceremony by Grace Purgavie Mevers who represented our class. Read
the note from Kirsten to our class.
Scholarship Award to the Class of 2011
The winner of our DHS Class of 62 Scholarship for 2011 was Sadia Ahmed, who was in the top 5% of her class with a
weighted GPA of 3.88. Her goal is to become a doctor, and she will be attending Towson University. Sadia came to the
United States from Bangladesh in the beginning of her junior year. She had to master a new language and adjust to life
in a new country, but she has managed to excel academically despite these challenges. Sadia has also participated in a
variety of school-wide activities (in both the USA and Bangladesh), including: Career Exploration Club, Arts and Crafts
Club, and the Badminton Club, as well as local community clean-ups and tree planting days. Ms. Ahmed also held an
after-school job at Wal-Mart to help support her family. Best wishes to Sadia at Towson University and in her future
career.
View the video of the 2011 award presentation.
Scholarship Award to the Class of 2010
The 2010 recipient of the Class of 62 Scholarship award was Amanda Brioche. At Dundalk High School, Amanda started the
Volunteer In Everywhere group, while attending Advanced Placement classes and maintaining a 3.7 grade-point academic
average. In addition to the recognition from the Class of 62, Amanda also won the Comcast Leaders and Achievement
Award, earning a total of over $12,000 in academic scholarships. Ms. Brioche will attend the University of Miami this
fall and intends to major in meteorology.
View the video of the 2010 award presentation.
Scholarship Award to the Class of 2009
The 2009 Class of 1962 scholarship winner was Avia
Marie Esposito. As a student at Dundalk High School, Avia achieved a Quality Point Average of 4.65. This means that
she excelled in the toughest advanced placement classes at the school. While at DHS she also participated in music,
receiving the orchestra award and the golden string award. She also played volleyball and was active in vacation bible
school. Avia is interested in a career in oncology either as a physician or as a lab scientist. Such occupational
interests would continue to make a contribution to the Dundalk community since southeast Baltimore County has one of the
highest rates of cancer in the country. Avia's college education will begin this fall when she attends Stevenson
University majoring in medical technology.
View the video of the 2009 award presentation.
Scholarship Award to the Class of 2008
The 2008 Class of '62
scholarship winner was Hortensia Maria Montoya, a superior scholar, athlete, and true friend to her classmates.
Hortensia has played soccer, volleyball and lacrosse, served on her class steering committee, and still has managed to
maintain a 3.78 QPA! Pretty impressive, and well-deserving of our $5,000 award (still the largest award of any other DHS
alumni class). Like all of our other scholarship recipients, this young woman plans to "give back". After attending
St. Mary's College, she'd like to teach English in Baltimore County.
View the video of the 2008 award presentation.
Scholarship Award to the Class of 2007
The 2007 recipient of the Class
of 62 scholarship award of $5,000.00 was Shannon Pijanowski. Jim McCarthy from the Class of 1962 presented the award to
her. A three sport, four year athlete, Ms Pijanowski was president of the Dundalk High School Class of 2007 for four
years. She was also president of the school's National Honor Society and vice president of its chapter of DECA (the
International Association of Marketing Students), and she participated in the Maryland General Assembly's Page Program.
Shannon did all of that and maintained a 3.8 GPA, earning the Owls' Female Scholar Athlete Award. Ms Pijanowski, who
received more than $13,000 in scholarships at the farewell assembly and planned to attend Clemson University starting in
the fall of 2007. The college is giving her in state-tuition due to her academic record. Shannon has displayed an
outstanding work ethic and great spirit during her four years at Dundalk High School. Congratulations to an outstanding
student and person.
Scholarship Award to the Class of 2006
In 2006 Hannah Gerlach received a $5000
scholarship award from the Class of 1962. The award was presented by Dick Marcheski. Hanna is quite a remarkable
person, having demonstrated extraordinary grit and determination to succeed despite difficult circumstances in her young
life. Here are just a few of her accomplishments: President, Scholarship Club Award, Humanities and Social Sciences,
the DHS Principal's List for 2006, Third Place in the Physics Olympics for 2006. Hannah was VP of the Green Roof Tech
and a member of the Calculus Club. In addition, she has tutored other students and participated in fencing competitions.
It is wonderful to be able to offer assistance to a young lady who has a great need, and who has worked so diligently to
earn whatever encouragement we can provide. In a letter to our class Hanna said, "Thank you all SO much for this
scholarship. It means so much to my family and me. Well, to answer your questions in the letter, I have had straight
A's for my entire high school career. I just gave my valedictory speech last evening, which was hard for me to do
because I have a fear of public speaking. It went very well, all things considered. I am a member of the Chesapeake
Fencing Club. I recently won second place in a Junior Olympic Qualifier, of which I am very proud. I plan to continue
fencing in college. I also enjoy archery and paintball in my spare time. I play piano, drums, and guitar, mainly. I
like to sing opera when ever I can. I was in the Spring Variety Show at Dundalk High School. (Whether or not my voice
is pleasant is strictly a matter of opinion.) I plan to attend the University of Maryland College Park this Fall. I'm
very excited. The scholarship money will help me greatly. I plan to be a Mathematics major and study several
languages. The $5,000 will help with supplies, classes, and pursuing my dreams in general. Again, I thank you all from
the bottom of my heart. I hope that I can make the Class of 1962 proud. Sincerely, Hannah Gerlach"
Scholarship Award to the Class of 2005
The 2005 Class of 62 Scholarship Recipient
was Kasey Mikula. She was presented this award by Carol (Lawton) Haag. In a letter to our class Kasey said the
following: "Thank you for your scholarship for $5,000 which I received at the Dundalk High School's Award Program on
Wednesday, May 25, 2005. I greatly appreciate your contribution to my post-high school studies. I plan to attend
Salisbury University and major in pediatric nursing beginning in September 2005. Your scholarship will certainly help
pay for my college studies. Sincerely, Kasey Mikula" At the end of her freshman year, she added the following:
"Thank you again so much for the scholarship, it is an immense help. I use it specifically for the costs of my books,
which in nursing can be particularly expensive. My first year of college finished up great! I loved being at Salisbury
and I learned so much. I ended with a 4.0 GPA for both semesters. I was an active member of the girls Club Lacrosse
Team, which I plan to continue to play for throughout the remainder of my time at Salisbury. We traveled and played
other colleges in Maryland, Virginia, and Pennsylvania. I also participated in Salisbury's annual Relay for Life
event. Based on the size of our school, we raised the most amount of money for the event across the nation. Next year I
plan to co-chair the Girls Lacrosse Relay Team and participate in organizing the event and fundraising. I attended
Student Nurses Association meetings to stay in touch for my future. I cannot actually join the club yet because I am
not officially in the nursing program until my junior year. Next year, I will be taking five classes including
Microbiology, Sociology, Nutrition, History, and a Music Elective. Over the summer I will be volunteering two days a
week at the Johns Hopkins Children Center, as well as working and babysitting. Thank you again so much for all that you
have done in donating money to Dundalk High School graduates, I truly cannot express how grateful I am. Kasey
Mikula"
Kasey sent us the following update on June 15, 2008:
Thank you again so much for your support and help in my college education! I just received my last check and I cannot
believe that in the fall I will start the last year of my undergraduate education. It seems like just yesterday I was
graduating from high school. After finishing up my first year in the nursing program, I have found my passion and
calling for life! School has been tough but I know that this is the right choice for me. I was just recently hired at
the Johns Hopkins Hospital in the Children's Center to work as a Clinical Nurse Extern for the summer. I am working on
the pediatric oncology floor and I absolutely love every minute of it! I get to work hands on with the nurses to
continue to engage in learning and growing as a future nurse. I was elected Secretary of the Student Nurses Association
last semester for my senior year, and will also be busy as a lab assistant helping the incoming junior students learn
basic nursing skills. This last year will be busy but also a lot of fun and I can't thank you enough for all of your
support through my schooling!
Richard Sizer Memoral Scholarship to the Class of
2005
John Schroeder represented our class by presenting four scholarships in memory of our friend,
Richard Sizer. Funds used for these awards were received in special donation to our class in Richard's name. DHS
recipients included Angela Jean Smith, Nicole Lynn Boblits, Amber Paige Kersey, and Kenneth Moll
Angela Jean Smith sent us the following letter: "Thank the class of 1962 for awarding me the
Richard Sizer Memorial Award. I appreciate it greatly. As you know I will be attending Towson University in the fall of
2005. While I am there I hope to enter the field of nursing and obtain a RN degree. Also by the end of my studies I hope
to have a nursing job in my community where I will fulfill another one of my goals, giving back to the community that
helped me make something of myself I enjoy hanging out with my friends and dancing like most teenagers. I also love
hanging out with my grandfather and hearing all his stories about WWII and the rough times he experienced during the
great depression. I love learning about history so it is a joy to hear his stories and it also gives me the opportunity
to bond with him My mother, Beverly Smith, is a graduate of Dundalk High School and is a proud member of the class of
1969. Once again I want to thank you for awarding me with the Richard Sizer Memorial Award Thank you,
Angela"
Amber Paige Kersey also sent us a leeter which said: Thank you for your scholarship of
$1,000.00 which I received in memory of Richard Sizer on Wednesday, May 25, 2005. I plan to attend CCBC Dundalk and
Essex and major in Nursing beginning the end of August 2005. The scholarship that I received was enough to pay for my
fall semester classes. They consist of Biology, Sociology, and English. Again thank you all so much for this honor.
Amber Kersey
Scholarship Award to the Class of 2004
The 2004 Class of 62 Scholarship
Recipient was Michael Gliniecki. The award was presented by Presenter Jerry Bedell Rollyson
Scholarship Award to the Class of 2003
The 2003 Class of 62 Scholarship
Recipient was Justin Wilson. The scholarship was presented to Justin by George Dawson . Justin has now graduated and
sent the following letter to our class: "Yes, graduation is next month. I am really looking forward to it. Right now, I
am working for a startup company called Psyleron (www.psyleron.com) and taking classes part-time. I completed my
undergraduate degree with a 3.94 cumulative GPA, so I received the Presidential Scholarship, which is a fifth year
tuition free at Lehigh. Over the summer, I will continue working with Psyleron. In the fall, I will take more classes
part-time and continue with the startup if it is still making progress. My college experience has been a great one and
has been full of opportunities. When I walk across the stage in May, I will definitely have the DHS Class of 1962 in
mind as you have made this all possible. Should my email address change, I will surely update you. Justin Wilson. Lehigh
University"
Scholarship Award to the Class of 2002
The 2002 Class of 62 Scholarship
Recipient was Katie Marie Peterka The award was presented to Katie by John Schroeder. Katie has graduated from
college and sent the following letter to our class: "Graduation went well on Wednesday. I was selected to carry the
Mathematics and Sciences Banner during the ceremony. A person was nominated from each department and the graduation
committee chose me. Since I was the banner carrier, I led all of the math and science undergraduates into the
auditorium. It was awesome! A month ago I received the Mary Scarborough Award in Mathematics with a Secondary
Education Track. This award was given to an outstanding mathematics secondary education senior. I also gave a speech at
the Math and Science Awards Convocation. I was nervous, but my speech went very well. I ended up graduating with a
3.93 and I graduated Summa Cum Laude. I also already have a job teaching at Bel Air High School. I signed the contract
last week. It was a tough decision, since I was the first pick for five high schools in Harford County. I only had 24
hours to make my decision and I thought Bel Air was the right fit for me. I hope to be teaching Pre-Calculus and
Trigonometry or Honors Geometry. My first day is August 21. I am sad that my college experience is now over, but I
plan on attending Towson or another University shortly to begin my master's degree. I am thinking about pursuing a
mater's degree in Secondary Education Mathematics. I hope you are doing well too. I plan on starting a class of
2002 scholarship award. I think I'll begin during my first high school reunion. How are the other award winners doing?
How is Todd doing? Take Care, Katie"
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This fall, Panagiotis Fafalios will be attending Johns Hopkins University to study Economics and Computer Science. Pete
was valedictorian of his class with an impressive weighted GPA of 5.40. Pete took numerous AP classes throughout high
school and scored highly on the SAT. Pete was also a part of the Computer Science and Cybersecurity magnet program at
Sollers Point Technical High School. He was Co-President of the National Honor Society and earned varsity letters in
both tennis and badminton. Pete was a member of the Maryland Center of School Safety Legislative Committee Student Focus
Group. He was also a very active member of the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) and earned Regional and State
Finalist awards in competitions.
This fall, Miguel Duran Sanchez will be attending Stevenson University to study business in order to help with his
family's business and to reach his goal of running his own business one day. Miguel plays several instruments, including
the alto saxophone, bass guitar, electric guitar, and acoustic drums. Miguel was also an important member of the Dundalk
High School Football team since the 9th grade. Faith is an important part of Miguel's life, and he is very involved in
his church. Miguel also enjoys volunteering and helping others in his community. He served with L.A. Street Ministries,
by helping to serve food and provide supplies to families in need and the elderly during the pandemic. Miguel provided
148 hours of service to the L.A. Street Ministries.
This Fall, Akema Mitchell will be attending Bowie State University to study Business Administration. After earning her
Bachelor's degree, Akema would like to earn her MBA. Her goal is to earn her MBA by the age of 23! Akema was also a part
of the Cosmetology magnet program at Sollers Point Technical High School. Through this program, Akema was able to earn
her Cosmetology license while in high school. In her free time, Akema enjoys helping out the homeless in Baltimore. Her
hobbies include cooking, baking, drawing, and cosmetology. She has taken gymnastics, ballet classes, swimming lessons,
played percussion instruments, and achieved a black belt in karate.
The winner of the 2021 Class of 1962 Scholarship is France Jimenez. This fall Ms. Jimenez will attend Loyola University
Maryland in Baltimore. She is interested in Sociology and Education with the objective of becoming a lawyer and helping
young people in poor neighborhoods. France's interests in high school have included academics, music, and athletics.
She has served as section leader in the Chamber Choir and played four musical instruments, including piano, guitar,
ukulele, and saxophone. She was a member of the soccer, basketball, and lacrosse teams and served as team captain.
Outside school, France tutored and cared for a younger brother and worked at the local Target store. France enjoys
writing, teaching, and working with younger children.
Before I start with the good stuff, I would just simply like to explain why I have been MIA in the times you've tried to
get a hold of me. I work a part time job at Target, which has required 30+ hours of my time every week for about a year
now. Right along with that, I have been going through nothing but busy days with my family and their terrible planning.
In fact, my days off from work consist of just rest, because I believe it is essential for the soul. Considering I
dedicated the better half of the past 4+ years literally dedicating my entire being into school, I felt that I was
really due for days off, which I gave myself after graduating. So, that is where I have been, and I do apologize for
taking so long to get back to you.
The winner of the Dundalk Class of 1962 Scholarship for 2020 is Jacob Hornberger. Jacob is an outstanding scholar with
a weighted GPA of 4.77. He will initially attend the Community College of Baltimore County for an Associates degree in
Biology. He then intends to apply to a four-year university to prepare for a career in medicine. Jacob's statements
about his future plans have shown his altruism and his concern for human suffering. The Class of 1962 is very proud of
this very accomplished young scholar and promising humanitarian.
The winner of the Class of '62 scholarship for 2019 is Sophia Pezza. Ms. Pezza plans to attend the University of Maryland in the fall
majoring in neurobiology and physiology. During high school Sophia participated in the Model United Nations and the Student
Government Association. She also competed in track and field, golf, and cheerleading.
The winner of the Class of '62 scholarship was Anastasia Farley. Anastasia, who won other awards at the ceremony, was
also Valedictorian of the DHS Class of 2018. Ms. Farley plans to attend Susquehanna College in Pennsylvania in the
fall. Katie Paterka Roppelt, who won the first Class of 1962 scholarship 17 years ago, presented the award.
The recipient of the Class of 1962 scholarship for 2017 is Amanda Dove. Amanda will attend UMBC in the fall and study
mathematics. She made straight A's in high school. In her spare time she enjoys bowling and dancing. Her parents are
DHS grads and so is her grandmother (class of 65). Amanda is an outstanding young woman and will do a great job in
college. Summer Nevins, our 2015 winner presented the award.
The recipient of the Class of 1962 scholarship for $7500 was Katelyn Ludwig. She planned to attend Notre Dame of Maryland
University with a major in nursing and a minor in psychology. She graduated from high school with a 3.4
GPA and a 4.67 QPA. Through a partnership with Dundalk High, Katelyn also attended the Academy of Health Professions at
Sollers Point Technical High School where she received a certification as a Nurse's Assistant and for CPR. Katelyn was
also a tri-athlete in high school and plans to play softball and participate in a volunteer service sorority at Notre
Dame.
The recipient of the 2015 Dundalk High Class of 1962 scholarship was Summer Nevins. Summer won the social studies
academic award, the Athletic Booster Club Scholar Award and the Girl of the Year award from the Optimist Club. The DHS
Faculty Committee that selected Summer told us that she took the maximum number of Advanced Placement courses and always
shows outstanding dedication. Summer plans to attend the University of Maryland in College Park where she will pursue a
major in a medical field.
The recipient of the 2014 Dundalk High Class of 1962 scholarship for $7500 is Jacob Bass. Jacob was both a scholar and
athlete at Dundalk High. He had a 4.0 grade point average and was recognized as an AP Scholar with Distinction. He was
captain of the tennis team and the badminton team. Jacob plans to attend the University of Maryland Baltimore County
and is interested in studying Computer Engineering. The scholarship was presented at the May 2014 graduation ceremony
at the new Sollers Dundalk High School auditorium.
The recipient of the Dundalk High
Class of 1962 Barbara Wernecke Durkin Scholarship for 2014 for $2000 is Denisse Jimenez. Denisse was a member of the
National Honor Society and the Student Government Association. She played junior varsity and varsity volleyball and
competed in indoor track and she volunteered at St. Rita's Church. Denisse plans to attend St. Johns University in the
fall and is interested in drama, international business, and marketing. This was the first year for this scholarship,
which was made possible by the generosity our classmate Barbara Warnecke. Click 
The recipient of the Class of 1962 scholarship award for 2013 is Ijaz Ahmed. Ijaz is in the top 1% of the graduating
class with a 3.88 grade point average. In addition he is very active in school and community activities. Ijaz will be
attending University of Maryland, Baltimore County and will be studying Biomedical Engineering. The scholarship was
presented at the May graduation ceremony. Ijaz He is another great winner of our scholarship. In the past 11 years our
class has awarded $69,000 to very deserving seniors at Dundalk High.
The recipient of the Class of 1962 scholarship award for 2012 is Kirsten Elan Taylor. Kirsten was Vice President of her
Senior Class, was President of the National Honor Society, and achieved a 3.93 GPA, which places her in the top 1% of the
senior class. In addition to our scholarship, Kirsten received the Business Academic Award, the Principal's
Discretionary Award, the Sollers Point Class of 1966 Scholarship, the DHS Positive Impact Scholarship, and the DHS Most
Involved Senior Award. She was also selected as the Optimist Club's Girl of the Year. Kirsten plans to attend St.
Edwards University, a small Catholic school in Austin Texas and intends to study psychology. After graduation from
college she plans to either go on a church mission or join the Peace Corps. The $6200 scholarship was presented at the
May graduation ceremony by Grace Purgavie Mevers who represented our class. 
The winner of our DHS Class of 62 Scholarship for 2011 was Sadia Ahmed, who was in the top 5% of her class with a
weighted GPA of 3.88. Her goal is to become a doctor, and she will be attending Towson University. Sadia came to the
United States from Bangladesh in the beginning of her junior year. She had to master a new language and adjust to life
in a new country, but she has managed to excel academically despite these challenges. Sadia has also participated in a
variety of school-wide activities (in both the USA and Bangladesh), including: Career Exploration Club, Arts and Crafts
Club, and the Badminton Club, as well as local community clean-ups and tree planting days. Ms. Ahmed also held an
after-school job at Wal-Mart to help support her family. Best wishes to Sadia at Towson University and in her future
career.
The 2010 recipient of the Class of 62 Scholarship award was Amanda Brioche. At Dundalk High School, Amanda started the
Volunteer In Everywhere group, while attending Advanced Placement classes and maintaining a 3.7 grade-point academic
average. In addition to the recognition from the Class of 62, Amanda also won the Comcast Leaders and Achievement
Award, earning a total of over $12,000 in academic scholarships. Ms. Brioche will attend the University of Miami this
fall and intends to major in meteorology.
The 2009 Class of 1962 scholarship winner was Avia
Marie Esposito. As a student at Dundalk High School, Avia achieved a Quality Point Average of 4.65. This means that
she excelled in the toughest advanced placement classes at the school. While at DHS she also participated in music,
receiving the orchestra award and the golden string award. She also played volleyball and was active in vacation bible
school. Avia is interested in a career in oncology either as a physician or as a lab scientist. Such occupational
interests would continue to make a contribution to the Dundalk community since southeast Baltimore County has one of the
highest rates of cancer in the country. Avia's college education will begin this fall when she attends Stevenson
University majoring in medical technology.
The 2008 Class of '62
scholarship winner was Hortensia Maria Montoya, a superior scholar, athlete, and true friend to her classmates.
Hortensia has played soccer, volleyball and lacrosse, served on her class steering committee, and still has managed to
maintain a 3.78 QPA! Pretty impressive, and well-deserving of our $5,000 award (still the largest award of any other DHS
alumni class). Like all of our other scholarship recipients, this young woman plans to "give back". After attending
St. Mary's College, she'd like to teach English in Baltimore County.
The 2007 recipient of the Class
of 62 scholarship award of $5,000.00 was Shannon Pijanowski. Jim McCarthy from the Class of 1962 presented the award to
her. A three sport, four year athlete, Ms Pijanowski was president of the Dundalk High School Class of 2007 for four
years. She was also president of the school's National Honor Society and vice president of its chapter of DECA (the
International Association of Marketing Students), and she participated in the Maryland General Assembly's Page Program.
Shannon did all of that and maintained a 3.8 GPA, earning the Owls' Female Scholar Athlete Award. Ms Pijanowski, who
received more than $13,000 in scholarships at the farewell assembly and planned to attend Clemson University starting in
the fall of 2007. The college is giving her in state-tuition due to her academic record. Shannon has displayed an
outstanding work ethic and great spirit during her four years at Dundalk High School. Congratulations to an outstanding
student and person.
In 2006 Hannah Gerlach received a $5000
scholarship award from the Class of 1962. The award was presented by Dick Marcheski. Hanna is quite a remarkable
person, having demonstrated extraordinary grit and determination to succeed despite difficult circumstances in her young
life. Here are just a few of her accomplishments: President, Scholarship Club Award, Humanities and Social Sciences,
the DHS Principal's List for 2006, Third Place in the Physics Olympics for 2006. Hannah was VP of the Green Roof Tech
and a member of the Calculus Club. In addition, she has tutored other students and participated in fencing competitions.
It is wonderful to be able to offer assistance to a young lady who has a great need, and who has worked so diligently to
earn whatever encouragement we can provide. In a letter to our class Hanna said, "Thank you all SO much for this
scholarship. It means so much to my family and me. Well, to answer your questions in the letter, I have had straight
A's for my entire high school career. I just gave my valedictory speech last evening, which was hard for me to do
because I have a fear of public speaking. It went very well, all things considered. I am a member of the Chesapeake
Fencing Club. I recently won second place in a Junior Olympic Qualifier, of which I am very proud. I plan to continue
fencing in college. I also enjoy archery and paintball in my spare time. I play piano, drums, and guitar, mainly. I
like to sing opera when ever I can. I was in the Spring Variety Show at Dundalk High School. (Whether or not my voice
is pleasant is strictly a matter of opinion.) I plan to attend the University of Maryland College Park this Fall. I'm
very excited. The scholarship money will help me greatly. I plan to be a Mathematics major and study several
languages. The $5,000 will help with supplies, classes, and pursuing my dreams in general. Again, I thank you all from
the bottom of my heart. I hope that I can make the Class of 1962 proud. Sincerely, Hannah Gerlach"
The 2005 Class of 62 Scholarship Recipient
was Kasey Mikula. She was presented this award by Carol (Lawton) Haag. In a letter to our class Kasey said the
following: "Thank you for your scholarship for $5,000 which I received at the Dundalk High School's Award Program on
Wednesday, May 25, 2005. I greatly appreciate your contribution to my post-high school studies. I plan to attend
Salisbury University and major in pediatric nursing beginning in September 2005. Your scholarship will certainly help
pay for my college studies. Sincerely, Kasey Mikula"
Angela Jean Smith sent us the following letter: "Thank the class of 1962 for awarding me the
Richard Sizer Memorial Award. I appreciate it greatly. As you know I will be attending Towson University in the fall of
2005. While I am there I hope to enter the field of nursing and obtain a RN degree. Also by the end of my studies I hope
to have a nursing job in my community where I will fulfill another one of my goals, giving back to the community that
helped me make something of myself I enjoy hanging out with my friends and dancing like most teenagers. I also love
hanging out with my grandfather and hearing all his stories about WWII and the rough times he experienced during the
great depression. I love learning about history so it is a joy to hear his stories and it also gives me the opportunity
to bond with him My mother, Beverly Smith, is a graduate of Dundalk High School and is a proud member of the class of
1969. Once again I want to thank you for awarding me with the Richard Sizer Memorial Award Thank you,
Angela"
Amber Paige Kersey also sent us a leeter which said: Thank you for your scholarship of
$1,000.00 which I received in memory of Richard Sizer on Wednesday, May 25, 2005. I plan to attend CCBC Dundalk and
Essex and major in Nursing beginning the end of August 2005. The scholarship that I received was enough to pay for my
fall semester classes. They consist of Biology, Sociology, and English. Again thank you all so much for this honor.
Amber Kersey
The 2004 Class of 62 Scholarship
Recipient was Michael Gliniecki. The award was presented by Presenter Jerry Bedell Rollyson
The 2003 Class of 62 Scholarship
Recipient was Justin Wilson. The scholarship was presented to Justin by George Dawson . Justin has now graduated and
sent the following letter to our class: "Yes, graduation is next month. I am really looking forward to it. Right now, I
am working for a startup company called Psyleron (www.psyleron.com) and taking classes part-time. I completed my
undergraduate degree with a 3.94 cumulative GPA, so I received the Presidential Scholarship, which is a fifth year
tuition free at Lehigh. Over the summer, I will continue working with Psyleron. In the fall, I will take more classes
part-time and continue with the startup if it is still making progress. My college experience has been a great one and
has been full of opportunities. When I walk across the stage in May, I will definitely have the DHS Class of 1962 in
mind as you have made this all possible. Should my email address change, I will surely update you. Justin Wilson. Lehigh
University"
The 2002 Class of 62 Scholarship
Recipient was Katie Marie Peterka The award was presented to Katie by John Schroeder. Katie has graduated from
college and sent the following letter to our class: "Graduation went well on Wednesday. I was selected to carry the
Mathematics and Sciences Banner during the ceremony. A person was nominated from each department and the graduation
committee chose me. Since I was the banner carrier, I led all of the math and science undergraduates into the
auditorium. It was awesome! A month ago I received the Mary Scarborough Award in Mathematics with a Secondary
Education Track. This award was given to an outstanding mathematics secondary education senior. I also gave a speech at
the Math and Science Awards Convocation. I was nervous, but my speech went very well. I ended up graduating with a
3.93 and I graduated Summa Cum Laude. I also already have a job teaching at Bel Air High School. I signed the contract
last week. It was a tough decision, since I was the first pick for five high schools in Harford County. I only had 24
hours to make my decision and I thought Bel Air was the right fit for me. I hope to be teaching Pre-Calculus and
Trigonometry or Honors Geometry. My first day is August 21. I am sad that my college experience is now over, but I
plan on attending Towson or another University shortly to begin my master's degree. I am thinking about pursuing a
mater's degree in Secondary Education Mathematics. I hope you are doing well too. I plan on starting a class of
2002 scholarship award. I think I'll begin during my first high school reunion. How are the other award winners doing?
How is Todd doing? Take Care, Katie"