Kiwanis Club awards scholarships to Medford students
Four graduating seniors received scholarships from the Kiwanis Club to attend college in the fall.
The following was submitted by the Kiwanis Club of Medford.
The Kiwanis Club of Medford, long dedicated to improving the lives of children and supporting educational opportunities throughout the community, has awarded $2,000 scholarships to four Medford graduating seniors who will be attending college this fall. Recipients were recognized for their academic achievement, leadership, community service, and commitment to helping others.
“The future is bright with students like these leading the way,” said members of the Medford Kiwanis Club. “Each recipient embodies the values of service, leadership, and academic excellence that our organization has supported for the past 100 years.”
The following students were honored during the Kiwanis Club’s annual Scholarship Night, which took place on May 18 at the Amici Club in Medford.
Darnesha Desrosiers
Medford High School Senior Darnesha Desrosiers plans to study neuroscience.
Described by school leaders as “a beacon of leadership and advocacy,” Darnesha has distinguished herself through her involvement in the Student Advisory Board for the Center for Behavioral Health, participation in the Massachusetts Youth Advocates in Prevention Program, and dual-enrollment coursework through Bunker Hill Community College.
Her educators praised her dedication to education, strong involvement in the school community, and deep commitment to giving back to others. They noted that her success in balancing rigorous academics with community engagement reflects both her independence and determination.
Ernstno Orphe
Medford Vocational High School Senior Ernstno Orphe plans to attend Wentworth Institute of Technology to study civil engineering.
Ernstno has developed numerous construction-related skills and earned certification through OSHA Academy training programs. Fluent in Creole and a member of the Medford High varsity football team, he has earned praise for both his work ethic and character. He is a team player and is known for having good communications skills.
One employer highlighted Ernstno’s maturity and compassion, recalling an instance in which he quietly helped an elderly customer who was unable to pay her grocery bill. His dedication to helping others and positive demeanor have left a lasting impression on teachers, coaches, and employers.
Lalla-Khadija “Lina” Rharmili
Medford High School Senior Lalla “Lina” Rharmili was recognized for her academic excellence, leadership, and passion for serving underserved communities.
A member of the Medford High Key Club, National Honor Society, Chess Club, and Psychology Club, Lina has volunteered extensively at the Medford Senior Center and participated in medical internships both in Morocco and through programs connected with Tufts University. She was also selected for Tufts’ prestigious Mini-Med School pre-college program on scholarship.
Fluent in Spanish, French, and Arabic, Lina moved to the United States from Morocco just two years ago and has transitioned seamlessly while making a significant impact in her school and community. She plans to pursue studies in the medical field with the goal of serving underserved populations.
Naomi Tessema
Mystic Valley Regional Charter School Senior Naomi Tessema plans to attend Northeastern University and major in public health.
Naomi’s accomplishments span academics, athletics, leadership, and community service. She serves as lieutenant governor for Division 9 of the Massachusetts Key Club and is a member of the National Honor Society. She has volunteered as a pre-med student with UMass Medical programs, worked as a coding instructor, and served as student body president.
In addition, Naomi is a pharmacy technician trainee, lifeguard, varsity athlete, violinist, and founder of a nonprofit organization focused on underserved communities. During the summers, she participated in internships with the Patients R Waiting program. She has accumulated more than 4,000 hours of community service and received outstanding recommendations recognizing her leadership and dedication to helping others.
