There are people in this world who you know from the moment you meet them are incredibly special. Laura Palumbo was one of these; she was an amazing woman who elevated all with whom she came in contact. The first thing many people noticed about Laura was her incredible intelligence. She thought deeply and loved to engage with big ideas. But, as gifted as she was as a thinker, it was Laura's heart that defined her. In a world where it can be easy at times to become hardened, Laura shone brightly. She spread joy. 

In addition to being a Westfield parent, Laura spearheaded the Westfield Outreach Program which works to identify and invite to Westfield students from underserved communities. Laura was the perfect person for this role:  she cared so deeply for each and every child she worked with and was incredibly committed to making new connections and creating new avenues for children to make their way to us. Laura truly loved and cherished our community and understood its value. Even when she was sick, Laura worked tirelessly leaving no stone unturned in helping children have this opportunity. 

The Laura Conway Palumbo Scholarship is awarded annually, in loving memory of Laura, to a student from an underserved community who could not otherwise attend to participate in a full-year of Westfield classes. In memory of Laura's amazing contributions to the homeschooling community, special consideration will be given to applicants who are homeschoolers. But, in keeping with Laura's unboundaried love of all children, applications from any child from an underserved community will be welcomed.  

Laura has left an indelible imprint on our hearts. Each year, as we welcome the new Laura Conway Palumbo Scholarship recipient to our community, we think of her and smile knowing that this will be yet another way that her kindness and love will continue to ripple throughout the world.