Unionville High School Senior Eleanor Day Selected as Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation 2025 Regional Finalist

Unionville High School senior Eleanor “Ellie” Day has been selected as a 2025 Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation Regional Finalist!

The Coca-Cola Scholars Program awards achievement-based scholarships to high school seniors who excel in leadership, service and community impact. Since its inception, it has honored over 6,900 students with $84 million in scholarships.

Day submitted a detailed application for the scholarship including activities, volunteer work, letters of recommendation, grades and essays. She was one of three Unionville High School students recognized as a Semifinalist. “I was honored to have qualified with Ian and Stella—both phenomenal people and applicants,” Day shared. “I deeply admire them and am grateful for this journey.”

Selected from 105,000 applicants, Day was among 1,337 Semifinalists and is now one of 250 advancing to regional interviews in February. After these interviews are conducted in early February, 150 Regional Finalists will be designated as Coca-Cola Scholars and attend Scholars Weekend in Atlanta (April 3-6, 2025). The Foundation will also award $3.1 million in college scholarships to these outstanding young leaders.

“We believe that identifying these young leaders throughout the country and encouraging their passion for serving others not only empowers the students but also lifts those around them,” said Jane Hale Hopkins, President of the Foundation. “The Coca-Cola system is dedicated to giving back to the communities they serve, and the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation is proud to be a part of that commitment.”

Day applied for the scholarship to support her college education. Her ultimate goal is an MD-PhD, using the money to explore her passions for science and writing. Over the years, she has realized the deeper meaning of blending the two passions. Day hopes to use them to communicate scientific discoveries and advocate for healthcare policies for her future patients—all while “enjoying it in a totally nerdy way.” She shared that her love for writing and science stems from inspiring teachers who made learning exciting. “I especially appreciate Mrs. DelDotto, Ms. Burt, Mr. Tredway, Mrs. Haitz and Mr. Lacianca for their academic and personal support,” said Day. “A special thanks to Mrs. Hofmann-Reardon, my elementary gifted teacher, who first sparked my love of learning. Her continued encouragement has shaped my journey, and I couldn't be more grateful.”

“This accomplishment speaks volumes about Ellie’s dedication, talent, and embodiment of our Portrait of a Graduate,” shared Unionville High School Principal Dr. Jenkins. “She has consistently demonstrated a thirst for knowledge, a commitment to personal growth and a passion for making a positive impact on the world. As she moves forward in this scholarship opportunity, we are incredibly proud of her achievements and excited to see what she will accomplish in the future.”