The program began in 2006 when Joe Wiseman, an active and popular resident of our Upper Moreland community, proposed the idea of a scholarship as an effective tool for retention of our newest and youngest employees. Upper Moreland residents continue to honor Joe’s legacy: the scholarship program is now in its eighteenth year and to date has awarded over $100,000 in scholarship monies.
Chairperson for the Serve WEL Scholarship Committee Geri Diehl (pictured at left) said: “We are certain that Joe would be immensely proud not only of this accomplishment, but also of our recipient for 2024.”
Dining server Kaitlyn Holm is the lucky scholarship winner this year. She has been working at Upper Moreland for over six years. The residents appreciate her friendliness, attentiveness, and how she always gets their orders right!
Resident Council President Sandy Stafanek (pictured at right) said: “Kaitlyn Holm has become an important thread in the fabric of our community, and she strives each day to enhance the lives of the residents in different ways.”
Employees eligible for the scholarship are those students who will be attending college or an accredited trade school and are currently employed with Wesley Enhanced Living Upper Moreland. Students are interviewed and evaluated on their job performance, grades, and an essay submission. Recipients must use their scholarship funds for educational purposes directly related to higher education, such as books, a computer, dorm room supplies, etc.
Kaitlyn is currently studying for a Professional Science Master’s degree in Applied Research and Evaluation at Temple University College of Education and Human Development, and she has a Bachelor of Psychological and Social Sciences from Penn State Abington. Kaitlyn is interested in using social science research to develop better techniques for motivating students and helping students with disabilities.
Executive Director Dan Frost congratulated Kaitlyn on her hard work and dedication to education, adding: “I would like to recognize all of our residents who supported the scholarship fund this year through direct donations and through our fundraising efforts; this truly would not be possible without your kindness and generosity!”