Communities in Schools Scholarship Recipient: Madison Wily

Madison Wily, an inquisitive student known for her welcoming smile, graduated from Fleetwood Area High School in June 2023. She was recognized at the Building Bright Future’s graduation as this year’s Joan Benner Fuller Scholarship recipient. Each year, CIS Eastern PA offers a scholarship in memory of Joan Benner Fuller, a former CIS board member who tragically passed away in a car accident in October 2011. With this $1,500 award, Madison plans to attend Reading Area Community College in the fall to study machine tool technology.

Each year, Communities in Schools of Eastern PA presents scholarships to students like Madison as a way to support their goals after high school. CIS founder Bill Milliken created the five basics, a set of essentials that CIS believes every child needs and deserves. The third basic, which ensures all students a healthy start and a healthy future. Since Madison first connected with CIS of Eastern PA, this was always the goal. After dealing with some extra stress at home, Madison turned to CIS of Eastern PA for a safe space to learn and grow. With our support, Madison was able to thrive as a student. “Madison’s ability to overcome obstacles, along with her grit and determination, is something to truly be admired,” said Fleetwood High School Site Coordinator Courtney Stunz. “I am so truly proud of all that she has accomplished this year.”

Madison is a well-rounded student, with academic interests spanning from high-level math to the arts. In every class, no matter the subject, she is known to be an active participant. “Her classmates, and myself, look to Madison to provide deep insight and different perspectives on problem-solving techniques,” said Ms. Samantha Phillips, Madison’s Trigonometry teacher. “She is also very supportive and inclusive of her peers.” Throughout high school, Madison was a four-year member of the chorus, singing mezzo-soprano. “Madison is the kind of student every music teacher hopes to have,” said Ms. Catherine Williamson, Vocal Director of Fleetwood Area High School. “(She is) dedicated, perceptive, passionate, and kind.”

Madison’s positive relationships with her teachers reflect CIS of Eastern PA’s mission– to ensure students have a one-on-one relationship with a caring adult. For Madison, this adult was always her great-grandfather. After he passed, Madison was scared to fight these battles on her own. Madison was embraced by an entire support system of adults led by site coordinator Courtney Stunz who helped guide her through the peaks and valleys of high school. Together, they set educational goals, which led her to this next exciting chapter at Reading Area Community College.