First Literacy Scholars

Since the Scholarship Program was initiated in 1990, First Literacy has awarded over 500 scholarships. The adult learners who are awarded scholarships come from a wide variety of backgrounds and often face numerous hurdles, but they are united in their desire to improve their lives through the power of education. Many are the first in their families to attend college. Most are heads of households with financial and care-giving responsibilities, and many hold more than one job.

Each scholar has a unique story and a goal they are striving to achieve. We are proud to support these scholars in their journey.

 2022-2023 First Literacy Scholars

Below is a list of the 2022-2023 First Literacy scholars and the schools they will be attending.

First Literacy also awards special scholarships each year to deserving adult learners.

• The Mayor Thomas Menino Scholarship¹ was created in 2014 to honor Mayor Menino’s commitment to adult literacy education and the potential of all students.
• The William Berman Scholarship² recognizes Mr. Berman’s years of dedicated service to First Literacy and his love of learning throughout his life.
• The Tom Brunnick Memorial Scholarship³  was created in memory of Tom Brunnick, who immigrated to the United States in 1921, escaping poverty and civil war in his home country of Ireland in search of a better life. He worked tirelessly to pursue his own dreams, and was ultimately able to raise five children and buy a house in his adopted home city of Boston.
• The Jeffrey P. Beale Scholarship⁴ was established in 2022 by First Literacy’s Board of Directors, in gratitude to Jeff’s many years of service as Board Chair and to adult learners throughout Massachusetts; the scholarship recognizes a scholar who has been a significant contributor in their community.
• The First Literacy Board of Directors’ Scholarship⁵ is awarded at the discretion of the Board as recognition of an individual’s or organization’s extraordinary contribution to the success of First Literacy’s mission.

Past Scholars