The mission of the Piedmont Scholarship Program, established in 2012, is to attract new students of exceptional talent to the Highland Upper School. The merit-based program, initiated by generous donors, seeks to enroll students who possess the ability to make a meaningful and significant contribution to the quality of school life.

Applicants must be able to demonstrate a passion and excellence in academic performance, extra-curricular activities, leadership, and/or community service.

While excellence in athletics is not a criterion for consideration or selection under the Piedmont Scholars Program, students with a strong record of athletic participation along with their record of academic excellence, leadership and extra-curricular excellence are welcome candidates.

Recipients of the Piedmont Scholarships this year include:

Erica Champion

Erica joined the Highland School freshman class after completing eighth grade at Bull Run Middle School. During her middle school years Erica excelled in academics, receiving two first place Science Fair awards and one Regional Science Fair award. In addition to being a scholar, she is an artist, equestrian and athlete.

Erica's Piedmont Scholarship submission was an artist's portfolio focused on drawings of animals and nature. Her dedication to developing her skill as an artist is emblematic of the determination she brings to every area of school life.

"I was attracted to Highland because of the learning environment and I felt I could benefit from the small class sizes and the personalized curriculum. I read that Highland offers many different leadership programs and I hope to graduate with the Leadership plaque."

Drew Marino

Drew attended eighth grade at Warrenton Middle School. He is the only Fauquier County resident ever to qualify for the Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee. As the Scripps Howard Regional Spelling Bee Champion, he represented Fauquier County in the National Spelling Bee in Washington, D.C. in 2012 and was featured in an on-air interview on National Public Radio.

Drew's areas of accomplishment range from roller hockey to science and engineering. His Piedmont Scholarship submittal was a movie demonstrating his intense interest in science and engineering and the important role they play in daily life.

"Many years ago I attended a Lego Robotics summer camp at Highland and ever since was determined to attend high school there so I could join the Robotics team. Also, the classes are small and there are a wide variety of AP classes for science and math. I do not think I could have found a better school and am very glad I was able to get the Piedmont Scholarship."

Caleb McGuire

While attending the American Heritage Plantation School in Florida, Caleb was recognized as a scholar, athlete and community servant. After a family move to Virginia, Caleb joined the Highland School sophomore class.

Caleb's Piedmont Scholarship submission was a PowerPoint presentation showcasing a variety of community service activities including his family's annual mission trips to Honduras. As Caleb stated in his application, "We changed the lives of so many people by building houses, visiting hospitals and giving out food to those less fortunate than us."

"I feel like the teachers at Highland push me to puzzle out my problems and encourage me to improve on what I already love. I came to Highland looking for more than just the standard curriculum… I was looking for a creative style of learning, tighter friendships and the opportunity to participate in sports."

Emily Schulz

Emily attended eighth grade at All Saints Catholic School. Prior to joining All Saints in 2012, Emily attended Thornton College School in the United Kingdom. Throughout her academic career, Emily has been recognized for achievements in leadership and community service. Most recently she served as an Assistant in the Riding for the Disabled Association.

Emily is also an accomplished equestrian and artist. Her Piedmont Scholarship submittal was an extensive portfolio demonstrating her ability as an artist and photographer. Her work shows a depth of understanding of all the elements of art and design and each page shows the love, care and commitment she has to her art.

"I really enjoy my classes at Highland because they are not straight lecture, but a small group discussion with room for personal development. This environment allows the teachers to recognize each individual students strengths and weaknesses and help them progress over the years."

Cecilia Zugel

Cecilia joined the freshman class after graduating from Bull Run Middle School. While at Bull Run, Cecilia distinguished herself academically and as a member of the Women's Chorus. Cecilia served as Women's Chorus Class President and was named Outstanding Chorus Woman of the Year for 2012-13.

In addition to Chorus, Cecilia is an accomplished dancer and has served as Treasurer for the local 4-H Chapter. Her Piedmont submission was a live vocal audition where she performed the finale from The Gondoliers by Gilbert and Sullivan and Cradle Song by Mozart.

"I like the inclusion of international students at Highland which creates more diversity and better mirrors the world in general. I was initially surprised at the honor system and the fact that there are no locks on the lockers. I am really pleased with this trust and respect among faculty and students alike."