Press Release

Taunton—Last week, Mayor Shaunna O’Connell and the City of Taunton gathered to honor the outstanding accomplishments of local students at the newly-established City of Taunton Scholarship Night. A total of $10,000 in scholarships across three different programs were awarded, marking a significant milestone in Mayor O’Connell’s commitment to supporting education and future leaders.

"Empowering our youth through scholarships is not just an act of generosity; it's a strategic investment in the prosperity of our community. I'm delighted that we can offer assistance to students as they pursue higher education and strive toward their ambitions," said Mayor O’Connell. "These students have demonstrated unwavering dedication, resilience, and a strong sense of civic responsibility. I have every confidence that they will emerge as leaders and make significant contributions to our community.”

One of the highlights of the evening was the City-sponsored donation fund, a dedicated initiative aimed at supporting the educational aspirations of local students. This fund relies on the generous contributions of community members, businesses, and organizations who are committed to investing in the future of our youth. The funds are distributed by a committee consisting of Mayor O’Connell, Taunton Public Schools Superintendent John Cabral, and local teachers and residents. The City of Taunton Scholarship Fund recipients are:

• Meghan Emond - Bristol Plymouth Regional Technical High School

• Neuricia Abreu - Taunton Alternative High School

• Calleigh Perreira - Taunton Public Virtual Academy

In addition, scholarships were awarded to students who participated in the City of Taunton Internship Program, which provides high school students with invaluable hands-on experience in various departments within the City. The interns demonstrated commitment and skill, contributing significantly to their respective departments. Human Resources Department and Mayor’s Office worked closely with Taunton Public Schools Internship Coordinator Rebecca Raposa, whose invaluable support and collaboration were essential to the success of the program. The following students participated in the program:

• Michaela Callahan - Taunton High School, Mayor's Office

• Sophia Claudio - Taunton High School, Mayor's Office

• Erin Crehan - Taunton High School, Mayor's Office

• Nathaniel Leitao - Taunton High School, Water Department

• Isaiah Rose - Taunton High School, Water Department

• Dylan Moitoso - Taunton High School, IT Department

• Ruthca Nelson - Taunton High School, Engineering Department

Scholarships for academic excellence and community service were awarded through the Mayor’s Worthy Cause. The recipients of the Mayor's Worthy Cause Scholarships are:

• Jillian Foley - Taunton High School

• Ericka Gendron - Taunton High School

• Bridget MacDougall - Taunton High School

• Jayden Bastille - Bristol Plymouth Regional Technical High School

• Savannah Ferreira - Bristol Plymouth Regional Technical High School

Each recipient has shown remarkable dedication to their studies and a strong commitment to making a positive impact on the community. Mayor O’Connell extends her heartfelt congratulations to all the scholarship recipients.