PHILADELPHIA, PA — The Green Family Foundation and Firstrust Bank awarded $360,000 in scholarships to 18 high-achieving high school seniors during a ceremony at the Firstrust Bank Club at the Philadelphia Eagles stadium. The annual Samuel A. Green Scholarship Program, now in its 56th year, celebrated the exceptional accomplishments and community commitments of these students, including two outstanding recipients from Chester County.
Alexander Angelov, a senior at Unionville High School, and Connor Zhou, a senior at Downingtown STEM Academy, were recognized for their inspiring essays and leadership. Each recipient of this prestigious program receives a $20,000 scholarship distributed over four years, providing vital support for their college education.
More than 500 students from 171 schools applied for this year’s scholarships. Applicants submitted personal essays on how their college education would contribute to the betterment of their communities. Finalists were selected based on the quality of their submissions and letters of reference highlighting their character and potential.
“Seeing how this scholarship program has helped more than 1,000 young leaders take their next steps towards higher education is incredibly rewarding,” said Richard J. Green, Executive Chairman and Owner of Firstrust Bank and Trustee of the Green Family Foundation. “I know my grandfather, Samuel A. Green, would be honored to see his legacy live on in the aspirations and achievements of these students.”
The scholarship program, established in memory of Samuel A. Green, the founder of Firstrust Bank, emphasizes values like education, hard work, and community service. These principles have guided the bank since its founding in 1934 and remain central to its mission today.
The ceremony featured keynote speaker Joyce Abbott, an accomplished educator and the real-life inspiration behind the hit show “Abbott Elementary.” Addressing the scholarship recipients, Abbott delivered an uplifting message about the importance of their ambitions. “Your brilliance will light up lecture halls, labs, and libraries. But more than that, your heart will light up communities,” she said.
This year’s event highlights the enduring impact of education and community empowerment. For Alexander Angelov and Connor Zhou, as well as the other 16 recipients, the Samuel A. Green Scholarship is not just recognition of their hard work but also a sign of trust in their ability to create meaningful change.
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