Every year, Vibe takes applications for our Thrive Scholarship. This award grants $2,000 to 10 graduating high school students planning to attend university, college, or a trade school, helping lessen their financial burden and focus on their future. Students submitted personal essays about how they create opportunity and elevate their communities, along with proof of their academic excellence, acceptance to an institution to continue their education, and recommendations from their teachers, coaches, and mentors.

With over 70 applications, we are thrilled to announce our 2025 Thrive Scholarship Winners!

Abigail Adams

Abigail attended Shrine Catholic High School, graduating with a 4.44 GPA. She will attend the University of Michigan in the fall. Her mentors describe her as a "high-achieving, hard-working, responsible, and downright likeable" and a "standout individual with academic ability, leadership, and kindness." She participated in varsity sports, including basketball and pickleball. She was an officer for her school's NHS chapter, where she helped create and organize a blood drive event that will continue after she graduates.

Albina Kalmeta

Albina graduated from Paul K. Cousino High School with a GPA of 4.72 GPA and plans to attend the University of Michigan in the fall. She was the Vice President of her school's chapter of the National Honor Society and the co-president of her school's Ecology club. Through her involvement in these clubs, Albina assisted in the creation of an Earth Day event to help clean up school grounds. A teacher described Albina as responsible and intelligent, while another said that  "Her optimism and drive to achieve her goals is rare in a high school student and is refreshing to see."

Anna Kohl

Anna attended Bloomfield Hills High School, where she graduated with 4.0 GPA and plans to continue her education at the University of Michigan. She was the head of the Sound Department at her school's Theater Tech Club, and the secretary of their chapter of Future Farmers of America. She has a passion for charity, exemplified through her participation in fundraising during school sales. Her advisor describes her as intellectually curious and genuinely willing to help others.

Chloe Kelenski

Chloe attended Marian High School, where she graduated with a 4.25 GPA and was accepted to the University of Michigan. There, she spent countless hours expanding upon her love for robotics, growing as a leader and mentor to her teammates and elementary-aged girls interested in programming and design. Her experiences have taught her that success does not come solely from what you build, but how you support those around you. Her school counselor remarked, "What sets Chloe apart is her character. She is kind, compassionate, and always willing to lend a helping hand to her peers."

David Keel

David graduated from Adlai E. Stevenson High School with a 3.19 GPA and will attend Trine University in the fall. He is serious about exemplifying his values, including community service, leadership, and personal growth, and does so through action. David was involved in his school's DECA chapter and served as the track and field team captain. One of his teachers said, "One of David's best qualities is his ability to inspire others," which he will continue doing while working toward a degree in engineering. 

Ella Schneider

Ella graduated from Lakeview High School with a 3.95 GPA and plans to attend Loyola University in Chicago this fall. She was a member of the National Honors Society and spent countless hours volunteering with the Huskies with Heart community service team. Ella found her passion through volunteering for Cinderella's Closet to help give young women access to gently used gowns and accessories for formal events, such as prom. She hosted a weekend-long event where girls could purchase any gown for $20, resulting in massive support from small businesses within her community. Her school counselor describes Ella as, "a well-rounded, creative, and dedicated individual who is passionate about others and has made meaningful contributions to her community."

Jacob Mack

Jacob graduated with a 3.17 GPA from Cass Technical High School and will attend Alabama A&M University this fall. He made an impact on his community by volunteering with The Greening of Detroit to plant trees and revitalize green spaces throughout the city, as well as mentoring underclassmen and participating in food drives. Jacob believes that "leadership is shown through service," and has proven that with his actions. One of his teachers said he is "a well-rounded young man who has demonstrated leadership, resilience, and determination throughout his high school career."

Kate Dixon

Kate graduated from Grosse Pointe South High School with a GPA of 3.70 and will attend Michigan State University in the fall. She was the captain of the varsity softball team, where she helped support her peers and create a healthier team environment. She volunteered at a youth softball clinic, mentoring players as she wished someone had done for her. Her greatest accomplishment was helping to raise money for a teammate who experienced a house fire, which showed her the impact sports can have on the community.

Owen Petrusha

Owen graduated with a 4.15 GPA from Milford High School and will attend Grand Valley State University in the fall. He competed in various sports, including wrestling, football, and baseball, where he learned the importance of leadership and teamwork. One of Owen's teachers said that not only is he exceptional academically, but also a leader on and off the field. Another teacher mentioned that "When out in the community, he conducts himself with poise and maturity".

Sutton Haller

Sutton graduated from South Lyon High School with a 3.09 GPA and will attend Western Michigan University in the fall. He played on the varsity hockey team, which gave him many opportunities to give back to his community. Alongside his team, Sutton read to kids, filled stockings for underprivileged youth, and mulched yards of elderly neighbors. One of Sutton's teachers praised his ability to "successfully navigate a balance between academics, sport, and work, which speaks to his maturity."

We are inspired by the accomplishments, dedication, and community spirit demonstrated by these exceptional students. They represent the bright future we all hope to build, and we are honored to support their journey through the Thrive Scholarship. Congratulations to the 2025 Thrive Scholarship winners – we can't wait to see all that you achieve!