Tom Sawyer Memorial Scholarship

Each year, our foundation awards the Tom Sawyer Memorial Scholarship to graduating seniors from Milford High School (Milford, NH) and Souhegan High School (Amherst, NH). Our scholarship is awarded to students who are pursuing degrees in education, who are in good academic standing, and who demonstrate commitment to their community. Read on to learn more about our scholars.

Congratulations to our 2026 Tom Sawyer Memorial Scholarship recipients!

This June, we awarded two local students a total of $10,000. Our winners are impressive and accomplished! Learn more about their achievements and goals below.

  • Milford High School Winner

    Erin Peterson

    During her time at MHS, Erin was a member of the “We the People” civics team, the National Honor Society, and an ambassador for Milford’s Career & Technical Education Program. On top of her impressive academic record, outside of the classroom, she was a competitive dancer as well as a teaching assistant in her dance studio. She also spent many hours in Milford’s elementary school as a volunteer. In the fall, Erin will attend Southern New Hampshire University, pursuing a degree in early childhood education. We can’t wait to see what she accomplishes next year at SNHU. Congratulations, Erin!

  • Souhegan High School Winner

    Sarah Shepherd

    While a student at SHS, Sarah was a member of the of the Spanish National Honor Society and Best Buddies Program. An exceptional student, Sarah was also a competitive gymnast who taught and coached young gymnasts for many years. In her free time, she volunteered at her local elementary school. This fall, Sarah will pursue a degree in early childhood education at the University of New England. We know she will do great things. Keep up the hard work, Sarah!

Our 2025 Tom Sawyer Memorial Scholarship recipients

In June 2025, we doubled our scholarship awards, distributing a total of $10,000 to local students.

  • Milford High School Winners

    Gabriel Santaniello

    Gabriel brought his curiosity and passion for learning to everything he did at Milford High School. A member of Future Business Leaders of America, Model United Nations, and History Club, he also served his community in many ways, including by volunteering with the town to help administer the 2024 election. Gabriel challenged himself in school by taking many AP and honors classes, and has been recognized for his consistent academic achievement. As a senior, he presented a research paper on civil rights worker Jonathan Daniels to the New Hampshire State National History Competition. On top of his academic achievements, he was also a four-year member of the golf team and earned his team’s character award. Gabriel will study history at the University of Maine in Orono this fall. Good luck, Gabriel!

    Noah Kittredge

    As a Spartan, Noah found his passion for physical education through hard work on the wrestling mat and in the classrooms. A wrestler since the sixth grade, he excelled as a varsity wrestling captain and an assistant coach for youth wrestling programs, showing commitment and resilience even through his season-ending injury. He also volunteered with MindSet Wrestling Club to coach and support young athletes in his community. Known for his strong work ethic and leadership, Noah was recognized by his school for his athletic achievements. He also pushed himself academically by taking a rigorous course load and maintained strong grades throughout his high school career. Noah will study Physical Education and Health at Plymouth State University with plans to become a PE teacher. Congratulations, Noah!

  • Souhegan High School Winners

    Eddie Barnes

    Eddie made a lasting impact at Souhegan both in the pool and in the classroom. He served on Community Council, participated in the Ethics Forum, and was selected for several school improvement committees where he contributed meaningfully to his school community. A six-time individual state champion and varsity swim team captain, Eddie also mentored and coached younger swimmers at Executive Swim Club. He is known for his strong leadership skills and athletic excellence. On top of these many accomplishments, he also maintained a strong academic record throughout his four years of school. Eddie will pursue a degree in English at Macalester College where he will continue swimming competitively. He hopes to become a teacher and a coach after he graduates. Keep up the excellent work, Eddie!

    Abigail Cho

    During her time as a Saber, Abigail shaped the Souhegan community as a student, athlete, and leader. She served as president of the National Honor Society, vice president of the Spanish National Honor Society, and co-president of the Interact Club. She was involved in many extracurriculars including Community Council, the Student-Led Activities Committee, and Best Buddies. In addition to being an award-winning pianist and a varsity tennis player, Abigail completed over 200 hours of community service—volunteering at her church, teaching at her Korean school, and contributing to other SHS and town organizations. This fall, she will attend Northeastern University to study Human Services and Psychology. She hopes to pursue a career in psychology to make a difference in the Souhegan Valley. Way to go, Abigail!

Our 2024 Tom Sawyer Memorial Scholarship recipients

In our inaugural year, we granted $5,000 in scholarships. Read about our two amazing recipients below!

  • Milford High School Winner

    Hannah Harrington

    While at Milford High School, Hannah was involved in many clubs and sports. She was a member of National Honor Society, played volleyball and softball, and volunteered as a coach and peer tutor. Hannah graduated salutatorian and will study psychology at Clark University in the fall. Way to go, Hannah!

  • Souhegan High School Winner

    Kyleigh Bonenfant

    During her time at Souhegan High School, Kyleigh was a member of Spanish National Honor Society, played field hockey and ice hockey, and maintained excellent grades. In the fall, she will pursue a degree in teaching at Lasell University. Congrats, Kyleigh!