For generations, Carver’s Annual Testimonial Dinner has been one of the organization’s most meaningful traditions—a celebration of achievement, perseverance, and the limitless potential of young people. This year, Carver proudly awarded $168,500 in scholarships to 58 high school graduates and continuing college students, reaffirming its commitment to helping students pursue higher education and build successful futures.
Behind every scholarship awarded is a story of generosity and a commitment to future generations. Carver's named scholarship funds honor individuals whose legacies continue to inspire young people to pursue higher education and achieve their goals. Learn more about each scholarship fund and the remarkable people behind them here.
Held at CT State Community College Norwalk due to ongoing renovations at the Carver Community Center, the 2026 Testimonial Dinner brought together students, families, staff, supporters, and community partners for an evening of recognition and inspiration. Carver extends its sincere gratitude to CT State Community College Norwalk and its president for generously making the campus available for this special occasion.
More than a scholarship ceremony, the Testimonial Dinner is a declaration of belief in the power of young people. At a time when access to education and opportunity can feel uncertain, Carver’s community continues to stand firmly behind every student, investing in their dreams and helping them reach their full potential.
The evening celebrated graduates from middle school, high school, and college, including 42 graduating high school seniors:
25 graduates from Norwalk High School
17 graduates from Brien McMahon High School
Families enjoyed a catered dinner while reflecting on the accomplishments of the past year and the exciting journeys that lie ahead. The program featured inspiring remarks from two outstanding Carver students whose stories exemplify the impact of the Youth Development Program (YDP).
Recent YDP graduate John Akbar shared how Carver supported his academic and personal growth through college tours, internships, tutoring, enrichment opportunities, and mentorship. John was named Student of the Year in the Brien McMahon YDP program and received the prestigious De’Andre Parks Scholarship, awarded annually to the graduating senior or continuing college student with the highest GPA. This fall, John will attend the University of Connecticut to study Biophysics.
The audience also heard from Darmarly Mendez, a former participant in Carver’s workforce development program. During high school, Darmarly completed a paid internship at Norwalk Hospital through Carver’s Earn & Learn initiative. Today, she attends Quinnipiac University and works at Norwalk Hospital as a Patient Care Technician. Upon completing her nursing degree during the 2026-27 academic year, she has already been offered a permanent position at the hospital—a powerful example of how early career experiences can open doors to lifelong opportunities.
Scholarship awards ranged from $2,000 to $5,000 and were based on academic achievement, longevity in Carver programs, and essay evaluations. This year’s scholarship recipients will attend an impressive range of colleges and universities, including:
CT State Community College Norwalk
University of Connecticut (Storrs and Stamford campuses)
Southern Connecticut State University
Morgan State University
New England College
Worcester Polytechnic Institute
Pace University
Penn State University
Western Connecticut State University
Fordham University
Denison University
University of Rhode Island
Central Connecticut State University
University of North Carolina Charlotte
University of South Florida
Winston-Salem State University
Tulane University
As Carver celebrates the accomplishments of its students, the organization also celebrates the families, educators, donors, staff members, and community partners who help make these achievements possible.
Congratulations to all of our scholarship recipients, graduates, and continuing college students. We are incredibly proud of your accomplishments and look forward to seeing the many ways you will shape a brighter future for yourselves, your communities, and the world.
