The NSHSS Spring Foundation Bulletin

Welcome to our spring edition, where we highlight the achievements and opportunities shaping the NSHSS community. This issue features our inspiring Earth Day Scholarship winner, a preview of the upcoming NSHSS Scholar’s Day, and new NSHSS Foundation scholarship opportunities to support your goals. Plus, tune in to a special podcast with Board Member Tanya Odom for valuable insights and inspiration.

Featured Foundation Earth Day Scholarship Winners

Charlotte “Lottie” Arnold is a 16-year-old climate advocate from New York City who works to expand climate education through policy efforts and her peer-led after-school program, ACES, which brings hands-on environmental learning to younger students. She is also active in youth climate leadership, serving on the National Wildlife Federation’s Climate Resilience and Education Task Force, the Heirs To Our Ocean U.S. Youth Action Council, and as a co-leader of her school’s climate action club.

Rishi Khante is a junior at North Creek High School who founded Access4All, a nonprofit focused on introducing environmental sustainability education to elementary students early through engaging, hands-on lessons. Through his work teaching topics like clean water, ecosystems, and conservation across multiple school districts, he aims to foster long-term sustainable habits and empower younger generations to take meaningful environmental action.

NSHSS Foundation Scholarships

The NSHSS Foundation Business & Public Policy Scholarship 2026 awards two $1,000 scholarships to high school students (GPA 3.0+) who plan to pursue business, finance/economics, or public policy and are passionate about making an impact in these fields.
Applicants must submit materials such as a recommendation, transcript, resume, headshot, and a 500–800 word essay explaining their inspiration and commitment, with applications open May 6 and due September 22, 2026.
The NSHSS Foundation STEM Scholarship 2026 offers two $1,000 awards to high school students (GPA 3.0+) who demonstrate strong passion and achievement in science, technology, engineering, or math, with applications open from May 8 to October 20, 2026. 
Applicants must submit materials such as a recommendation letter, transcript, resume, and a 500–800 word essay explaining their interest in STEM and showcasing their accomplishments and experiences in the field.

Join Us at Scholar’s Day in Atlanta

Join fellow high-achieving students and their families at NSHSS Scholar’s Day 2026, a vibrant two-day event in Atlanta on August 7–8 designed to celebrate your accomplishments and help you prepare for your future. This engaging experience offers inspiring workshops, interactive exhibits, and a college and career fair where you can explore opportunities, gain valuable insights, and connect directly with representatives and professionals. In addition to networking with peers from across the country, you’ll have the chance to participate in panel discussions, receive guidance on resumes, essays, and scholarships, and build leadership skills in a supportive environment. The event also features a memorable recognition ceremony where members are honored for their achievements, making it a meaningful and motivating experience you won’t want to miss.

 

Have Lunch with the Foundation Board of Directors

You’re invited to an exclusive meet-and-greet with the NSHSS Foundation Board of Directors on Saturday, August 8, at the Loews Hotel in Atlanta, Georgia.

Enjoy a relaxed lunch while connecting with Foundation leadership and learning more about their work and impact. Reserve your spot today by emailing Foundation Executive Director Fabian De Rozario at fabian.derozario@nshss.org. We look forward to seeing you there!

Tune in: NSHSS Scholars Connect Podcast

“Turning Self-Doubt Into Confidence”  with NSHSS Foundation Board Member, Tanya M. Odom

In this episode, Tanya Odom reflects on the importance of believing you’re “good enough” to try — even before you feel fully confident or prepared. Because growth doesn’t happen after perfection. It happens while you’re learning, trying, and helping others along the way.

Sometimes the most powerful lesson is realizing you can grow and make an impact at the same time.

This Mental Health Awareness Month, give yourself permission to grow without expecting perfection.

Make an Impact Today

Your gift of any amount helps provide scholarship funding to reduce financial barriers for students with academic and leadership potential and the desire to pursue careers.