Impact Scholars Announced

Congratulations to Steward’s 2022-23 Impact Scholars, Rafi Zepeda '26 and Brennan Zide '26. 

The Impact Scholars program provides $10,000 merit scholarships for tuition in Steward’s Upper School to two outstanding current eighth-grade students. Impact Scholars are chosen based on character and leadership, as well as community service, academic excellence, and extracurriculars, and automatically are offered spots in Steward’s Leadership Program. 

“When I found out the news [about being named an Impact Scholar], it felt incredible,” said Rafi, who plays soccer for Steward, sings in the school choir, and has performed in Steward theatre productions and for the Richmond Ballet. “It felt amazing … a goal that I set for myself.” Rafi can’t wait to be part of the Leadership Program, which gives students the opportunity to explore their personal leadership style. 

The Leadership Program is a natural fit for Rafi, who was described by a Middle School teacher as “a remarkable young woman who embraces opportunity and community” and who respects different perspectives. Another teacher described her as a “kind leader” — one who welcomes new students to campus and helps them feel at home. 

Giving back to others is important to Rafi, who volunteers at her church and with the Rise Against Hunger program, and this year she served as the Middle School representative for Steward’s annual Thanksgiving program. 

Described by a Steward faculty member as “an all-around dynamic young man” and “a role model for his peers,” Brennan is a member of the Student Council Association and often speaks at student panels for visiting students as an ambassador for Steward.

A dedicated member of the school’s varsity golf team, he makes time to participate in community-service projects. Brennan collected supplies for a local non-profit; volunteered at a youth golf academy; and helped spruce up the Bryan Innovation Lab garden in conjunction with a community-service course. 

Brennan is very excited about being a member of the Leadership Program. “It feels really good [to be named an Impact Scholar],” he said. “It's a big accomplishment. Leadership is important to me … I am looking forward to making an impact on Richmond and fixing global issues as well.”

Congratulations to these two exceptional Spartans!