At Brandon Oaks, we’re proud to support the next generation of healthcare professionals, public servants, and community leaders. Our 2025 scholarship recipients exemplify the dedication, compassion, and growth that define our values-and we’re honored to recognize their achievements.
Meet the 2025 Scholarship Recipients
Tresjour Peters, a senior at Salem High School, has worked at Brandon Oaks for nearly three years. She will attend Old Dominion University this fall to major in Health Sciences and Radiation. Tresjour says her experience here taught her to appreciate the value of seniors and helped her grow as a person.
Trinity Peters, also from Salem High School, is headed to Old Dominion University to pursue Dental Hygiene. She reflects on how her time at Brandon Oaks gave her a strong sense of fulfillment through meaningful relationships with residents and co-workers.
Claire Altema of Patrick Henry High School plans to study medicine at either UVA or JMU. Working with residents helped her develop patience, strengthen her communication skills, and understand the value of connection across generations.
Sarah Alcin, a William Fleming High School student, plans to pursue a BSN at VCU or JMU. Her time at Brandon Oaks confirmed her desire to enter nursing by fostering compassion and empathy for the elderly.
Taylan Herndon is currently studying Criminal Justice at Virginia Western Community College and interning with the Salem Police Department. He credits Brandon Oaks with teaching him teamwork and the importance of listening to the life lessons shared by residents.
Shayla Boggess, currently at Galen College of Nursing, is working towards becoming a registered nurse. She has gained valuable hands-on experience in elder care and developed key professional skills such as time management and critical thinking.
Sophia Carter, a Penn Foster student who’s been with Brandon Oaks for nearly three years, is considering options for an associate degree. She says her first job here helped her build confidence and feel genuinely supported by residents and staff.
About the Brandon Oaks Scholarship Program
The Brandon Oaks Scholarship program was launched in 2022 to support student employees pursuing higher education-whether through college, technical school, trade programs, or certification. The program is managed by a dedicated committee of residents and staff who share a common belief: that investing in young people is one of the most powerful ways to shape a better future.
Since its inception, the committee has raised nearly $65,000 and awarded $24,500 in scholarships since then. These funds have helped students continue their education at institutions such as VWCC, Roanoke College, and James Madison University.
Previous scholarship recipient Sophia Parr, a Marketing major at JMU and member of the Deloitte Leadership Allyship and Mentorship Program says, “The scholarship from Brandon Oaks has helped me pay for school so I didn’t have to stress as much about covering those costs.” Sophia goes on to say, “Being supported by the residents of Brandon Oaks is the best feeling, it’s great knowing they are rooting for me in school and life, and I am so thankful for them!”
Beyond financial support, the scholarship program is a testament to the unique intergenerational bonds that form at Brandon Oaks. It reflects the way our community uplifts, mentors, and celebrates the potential of the young people who serve alongside us each day.
The growth of our student employees is something we witness firsthand-and the stories they carry forward are a part of our legacy.
