The Kyle O'Connell memorial scholarship was created in honor of Kyle O'Connell, the son of Michael '87 and Julie '88 (Belfiore) O'Connell. On February 6, 2005, Kyle passed away just shy of his 10th birthday. Kyle's brave fight against brain cancer inspired a group of USD alumni to create this scholarship. The purpose of this scholarship is to inspire students through Kyle's story of courage, determination and spirit to improve treatments or find a cure for cancer, to provide comfort and hope for patients and their families who are struggling with terminal illness and to be advocates motivating others to become active in the fight against cancer. It will benefit graduate and/or undergraduate junior or senior students enrolled in the sciences or healing arts including nursing, marriage and family therapy.
Continue the fight against cancer by supporting USD students through the
Kyle O'Connell Memorial Scholarship.
Meet the 2012-2013 Kyle O'Connell Scholars
| Kevin Forey ’13 |
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The most enjoyable aspect of Kevin Forey’s college career has been his independent research. Over the past two years, he has actively investigated a variety of chemical reactions contributing to the accumulation of polluted air observed in densely populated cities. With access to state-of-the-art equipment, he is working to achieve his career goals as an established scientific researcher focused on the genetic component of cancerous mutations.
He said, “I would like to thank you for your generous contribution towards this scholarship fund. Upon receiving [this] scholarship, it marked the single most proud moment of my undergraduate experience at the University of San Diego.”
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Aimee Herweck ’09 (BA), ’13 (MSN) |
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Aimee Herweck is studying nursing at USD. She also volunteers at Elderhelp to assist with grocery shopping and running errands for a 92-year-old woman named Marie. She recently completed nursing rotations in Medical/Surgical nursing, Psychiatry, Obstetrics, Pediatrics and Family.
She said, “I am excited to graduate and am anxious to begin working in the hospital; hopefully inspiring others, patients and nurses alike. Thanks again for your generous donation.” |
Anna Kenneally ’14 |
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Anna Kenneally is majoring in chemistry.
She said, “USD has provided me with the integrated experience of a solid educational foundation, fostered with moral content, which I believe, is necessary in order to be an educated, empathetic and understanding human being. I know I can make influential advancements in finding a cure for cancer. I will never be able to explain my full gratitude, but I hope that by living out the message of Kyle O’Connell and the message of the University of San Diego to my fullest will show how thankful and blessed I am.”
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Esther-Ann Wells ’11 (BA), ’14 (MEd) |
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Esther Ann Wells decided to pursue an advanced degree in Marital and Family Therapy that stemmed from a desire to have a career with a conscience. After her mother’s long battle with Lymphoma cancer and dementia, she was certain a career in Hospice as a grief and palliative counselor was right for her. She is currently receiving clinical training with San Diego Hospice as a bereavement counselor. In addition, she volunteers with bereavement support groups and the Children’s Team. |
Erin Williams ’13 |
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Erin Williams is a senior graduating with a double major in biology and mathematics. Since her freshmen year, Erin has conducted research on campus with the support of faculty. After graduation, she plans to continue to focus on oncology research, specifically dealing with osteosarcoma.
She says, “Thank you so much for giving me the opportunity to finish my education. I would not be able to attend the University of San Diego without all of the alumni support. Thank you again.”
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