David Peña, a member of the Class of 2016 from Xaverian High School, Bay Ridge, was named a recipient of the prestigious Smart Start Scholarship, awarded by JPMorgan Chase to the top academic students in New York City. The award carries with it a full-tuition scholarship, a stipend for books and supplies, and a paid internship at JPMorgan Chase.

Planning to major in International Business/International Relations, Peña was accepted and awarded scholarships to Georgetown University, Colgate University, Fordham University, Claremont McKenna College, and Franklin & Marshall College. He will begin undergraduate studies at New York University this month.

Actively Involved

During his years at Xaverian, Peña was an active student: he was a member of the soccer team, Clipper Society, mock trial and music at Xaverian. He was deeply involved in Campus Ministry service initiatives and retreats, as well as the Dramatics Society and the school’s Belgium Exchange Program.

Reflecting on the impact that Xaverian has had on his life thus far Peña said, “I have the deepest gratitude to the teachers who educated me and taught me to become a better man. They motivated and inspired me to reach for the dreams that are now my reality.”

Faith Development

“Xaverian has also played a huge role in the development of my faith, as I was always encouraged to trust in God’s plan for me. I truly believe that God will work through me by developing my gifts so I can do my part to better the world,” Peña added.

Xaverian is a private, co-educational, Catholic, college preparatory school for grades six through 12. Established in 1957, it is one of 13 schools nationwide sponsored by the Xaverian Brothers. One of New York City’s leading schools for over 55 years, Xaverian educates nearly 1,200 students each year.

Xaverian has graduated a network of over 15,000 successful and responsible Catholic alumni, educated in the longstanding tradition of the Xaverian Brothers.

True to that tradition, the school gives its students the opportunity to grow in their faith, intellect, leadership skills, musical passions, athletic talents and much more.

For more information, visit www.xaverian.org.