
Two Celia Cruz students earn Hendricks scholarships
THE RIVERDALE PRESS
Brandon Hendricks, a talented high school basketball player with dreams of attending St. John’s University, tragically lost his life to gun violence on June 29, 2020. To honor his legacy and provide hope to other young individuals, the Bronx Rising Initiative established a scholarship in his name. Among the recipients of this scholarship are Abigail Smith and Rachel Turbridy, recent graduates of the Celia Cruz High School of Music. Abigail, with her strong drive and passion for the medical field, plans to study biology at Stony Brook University. Rachel, on the other hand, is pursuing her passion for music at New York University with a focus on the French horn. Both students exemplify the same dedication and passion that Brandon had for basketball, and the scholarship aims to help them fulfill their dreams and carry on his legacy.
In a touching tribute, the scholarship was awarded on what would have been Brandon’s 19th birthday, and an intersection was renamed in his honor. Brandon’s memory lives on through these exceptional young women, who are set to have extraordinary futures ahead of them, thanks to the support and opportunities provided by the Brandon Hendricks scholarship.
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