Stroman launches scholarship: 'This means the world to me'
NEW YORK -- Education has always been a priority for Marcus Stroman, who recalled that his parents would sometimes heap extra projects on top of assigned coursework to ensure that he fulfilled his academic potential.
Now, Stroman -- through his Height Doesn¡¯t Measure Heart Foundation -- hopes to help boost others to greatness in the classroom. In collaboration with the educational platform bold.org, the Yankees right-hander announced the launch of the Marcus Stroman Scholarship on Tuesday at Yankee Stadium.
¡°I realize how many incredibly authentic and smart individuals and kids are out there, that just don¡¯t have the opportunities that they need,¡± Stroman said. ¡°I went to Duke University, and education was something that was always huge to me. My parents pushed from the time I was a young kid; I wasn¡¯t allowed to go out and play sports unless I was killing it in the classroom.
¡°This means the world to me, to have my own scholarship fund now and be able to help people moving forward.¡±
The initiative aims to empower high school seniors, offering them a chance to pursue higher education without the burden of financial constraints. The scholarship has committed $250,000 over the next five years.
The first two recipients of Stroman¡¯s scholarship are Geurys Fiorentino from Monsignor Scanlan High School and Elani Wyatt from Equality Charter High School, both in the Bronx. Fiorentino and Wyatt were guests of the pitcher for Tuesday¡¯s contest against the Guardians.
Before the game, Stroman met with both standout students, including an on-field ceremony and check presentation.
¡°I know you guys are super creative, and I feel like you guys are going to touch the world in positive ways,¡± Stroman said.