Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania – June 11, 2025: We are pleased to announce Kaley Melendez, Saucon Valley Senior High School graduate, will be awarded a $5000 scholarship towards her bachelor’s degree in pharmacy at Philadelphia College of Pharmacy – Saint Joseph’s University. Kaley plans on pursuing her Doctor of Pharmacy.
“I chose pharmacy because of the deep connection I have to the profession through my mother, who works as a pharmacy technician at an independent pharmacy. Growing up, she couldn’t afford afterschool programs, so I spent countless hours behind the counter at her workplace. I was immersed in the world of pharmacy—listening to medication names, observing interactions between pharmacists, patients, and doctors, and witnessing firsthand the impact my mother and her colleagues had on their community. Seeing the gratitude their patients expressed inspired me to pursue a career where I could make a meaningful difference in people’s lives, just as they did.” says Melendez.
“The field of pharmacy has always intrigued me, but my passion solidified when I witnessed the impact of cancer on my loved ones. Some of my relatives won their battle, while others did not. Seeing firsthand how treatment decisions and medications influenced their quality of life inspired me to pursue a career as an Oncology Pharmacist. As a future pharmacist, I want to play a direct role in improving patient outcomes by providing life-changing medications. My goal is to work in a hospital setting, where I can collaborate with healthcare professionals to optimize cancer treatment plans and support patients through their most challenging times. If I can make a difference in just one patient’s life – offering hope, comfort, or even a cure – I will consider my work a success.” says Kaley.
“The selection process was highly competitive. Kaley, a first-generation college student, showcased a wonderful passion with strong goals and purpose to serve others. We appreciated the demonstrated mentoring and leadership expressed by others, as well as evident in her application.” says Alyssa Budraitis, co-founder of Andrew Budraitis Foundation.
We would like to express our sincere appreciation to all the applicants who demonstrated their passion and dedication through their impressive applications.
Thank you to our generous donors and supporters, we extend our heartfelt thanks for your invaluable contributions.
The Andrew Budraitis Foundation Scholarship is a committee-coordinated scholarship fund established at the Lehigh Valley Community Foundation in 2022. The Andrew Budraitis Foundation is a component fund of the Lehigh Valley Community Foundation, a 501(c)3 public charity.