Nicolette Loaiza Awarded a Ruth Taylor Scholarship
United Way of Westchester and Putnam (UWWP) is proud to announce that Nicolette Loaiza of New Rochelle has been awarded a 2019 Ruth Taylor Scholarship. She is one of ten recipients who collectively received scholarship awards totaling $19,500.
“I know each one of these extraordinary graduate students will make outstanding contributions to their fields and to their community,” said UWWP President and CEO Tom Gabriel. “We at United Way wish them the very best as they further their education and embark on challenging careers.”
Loaiza is currently employed as Camp Director at Songcatchers in New Rochelle, where she was previously a piano and violin teacher and camp counselor. She has also contributed her time as a Resident Service Coordinator at Family Centers in Stamford, Connecticut.
“When I found out I was one of the recipients for the scholarship I was honestly so happy,” Loaiza said. “I’m so passionate about learning the skills needed to be a Social Worker, and the fact that United Way has helped me in being able to continue my education makes me extremely grateful. All I can really say is Thank you so much!!!”
Loaiza earned Bachelor’s Degrees in Social Work and Psychology from Iona College. She is currently enrolled at New York University and is pursuing a Masters of Social Work degree. Her award is in the amount of $3,000.
The Ruth Taylor Scholarship was established in tribute to Ruth Taylor upon her retirement as Westchester County’s Commissioner of Public Welfare and in recognition of her nearly four decades of outstanding service. The annual awards are sponsored by United Way of Westchester and Putnam, Westchester County Government and the Urban League of Westchester County. Over a period of 12 years, almost $160,000 has been awarded to 60 students. Applicants must be residents of Westchester County and enrolled in graduate studies in Social Work or Public Health on a full-time basis. Criteria used in evaluating applications include a demonstration of public service, financial need, and scholastic capacity.
