Denise DeBartolo York and Dr. John York, San Francisco co-chairs and longtime education advocates, awarded $10,000 scholarships to 17 graduating high school seniors during ceremonies at the Lake Club that were held Wed., May 1 for the students and their families.
      The scholarships were given to seniors from schools in Mahoning, Columbiana and Trumbull Counties by the Edward J. DeBartolo Memorial Scholarship Foundation, that has awarded more the $2 million in scholarships over the past 27 years. Some 250 applications were received for scholarship consideration.
      “All of this year’s recipients are incredible young man and women,” Mrs. York said.
      Those honored with scholarships were Hailey Barrickman, Mathews HS; Christopher Cardiero, Girard HS; Ava Clayton, Mathews HS; Madison Dado, South Range HS; Lillian Ditz, Ursuline HS; Samantha Gainor, Salem HS; Francesca Gratica, Ursuline HS; Zaiden Hurks, Liberty HS’ Madison Jones, Western Reserve HS; Alaina Johnston, Columbiana HS; MacKenzie Kelso, Boardman HS; Brooke Nelson, South Range HS; John Perry, Howland HS; Symone Sferra, Campbell Memorial HS; Roni Swertfager, Girard HS; Riely Wilson, Canfield HS; and Makenna Wheatley, Beaver Local HS.
      The scholarship was first established by Mrs. DeBartolo York’s father, Edward J. DeBartolo Sr, and several close friends as Italian Scholarship League stipends. Upon Mr. DeBartolo’s death, Mrs. DeBartolo and her husband, John, have carried on the tradition.
      “The mission of the foundation is to reward local students who have worked hard, inside and outside of the classroom. My father always believed that young people who have the drive and determination to achieve their goals and contribute to their community should have the opportunity to continue their education, regardless of the financial situation,” Mrs. DeBartolo York said.
      Applications for the awards included grade transcripts, student essays and recommendations from guidance counselors and principals. Award winners were determined by academic achievement, community involvement and financial need.
      “We strive to provide advanced education for deserving valley students well into the future,” Mrs. DeBartolo York said.