DR. KRISTINE BENNETT HONORARY SCHOLARSHIP
2026 SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS
Antonella Furcolo
Strawberry Crest High School
Awarded $3,000
Antonella Furcolo is a first-generation immigrant student who moved to the United States at the age of 8, living in Florida ever since. She is a senior in the IB program at Strawberry Crest High School graduating in May of 2026. She is planning to major in Biological Sciences, going on a Pre-Medical track at Florida State University, starting in the Fall of 2026. After having to witness her mother’s medical misdiagnosis and dealing with serious health concerns of her own, Antonella was inspired to become a doctor to help save the lives of those in need. After graduating, she plans to become a neurosurgeon.
Churnika Gudla Venkata Siva
Middleton High School
Awarded $3,000
Churnika Gudla Venkata Siva is a senior at Middleton High School with a strong interest in healthcare and gastrointestinal research. She plans to attend the University of Florida, where she will pursue a degree in Health Sciences on a pre-med track. Drawing from her personal experience with chronic gastrointestinal issues, she has developed a passion for improving patient care and understanding digestive health conditions. These experiences have shaped her long-term goal of becoming a pediatric gastroenterologist to support children facing similar health challenges.
Nikhil Katiyar
Middleton High School
Awarded $3,000
Nikhil Katiyar says that he is blessed to receive this award. He plans to make a career in healthcare where he can wake up every day and have the opportunity to save someone's life. Throughout high school, Nikhil has committed himself to his band program, community service and most importantly - Middleton High School. Along with these extracurriculars, he is graduating in the top 3% of his class, combining leadership and service with academic excellence. He plans to take his talents to the illustrious North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University where he will study Biology(Pre-med). After this, he wants to go into medical school and complete his residency. Upon completion, he plans to serve in the United States Air Force as a licensed health professional.
Rohan Morgan
HB Plant High School
Awarded $3,000
Thomas Morgan is a student at H.B. Plant High School with a strong interest in economics, entrepreneurship, and community impact. He founded Rising Tide Charities to expand access to technology for underserved students, helping to provide donated computers and to create digital access opportunities. He also started Whisk & Wonder Bakery, inspired by his own severe food allergies, to offer safe and inclusive baked goods. As a dedicated rower, he has competed at the national level while mentoring younger athletes and helping grow his team.He served on the Superintendent’s Student Advisory Council, where he contributed to discussions on school safety and emerging issues like AI in education. After graduation, he will attend Yale University to study economics and continue rowing at the Division I level. He hopes to use his experiences to create meaningful opportunities for others in the future.