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CSX Pride in Service Scholarship: Investing in Future Generations

The First Responders Children's Foundation (FRCF), in collaboration with CSX, proudly announced the recipients of the 2026 CSX Pride in Service Scholarship, recognizing the dedication and resilience of young scholars shaped by their backgrounds as children of first responders. This initiative aims to support the education of students whose parents serve in critical emergency roles, ensuring their pursuit of academic excellence while honoring the contributions of their families.

In total, ten promising individuals from various states have been awarded scholarships that reflect their outstanding academic achievement, leadership, and commitment to serving their communities. This year's cohort includes students aspiring to enter fields like medicine, engineering, and public service, showcasing the diverse interests of those dedicated to carrying forward the legacy of service set by their parents.

Honoring Sacrifices and Commitment

The scholarships not only represent financial assistance but also the acknowledgment of the sacrifices made by first responders and their families. Each recipient exemplifies the resilience and commitment to community values instilled in them through their upbringing. Jillian Crane, President and CEO of FRCF, emphasized the importance of this support. “These students have witnessed firsthand the dedication and impact, as well as the sacrifice of their first responder parent. We’re grateful to CSX for supporting so many scholarship recipients, enabling them to continue their education,” she said.

FRCF and CSX have been pivotal in fostering the educational aspirations of these scholars since the partnership began in 2018. More than $811,000 has been contributed in scholarships to assist children of first responders from various backgrounds, focusing on those impacted by the challenges of service.

Meet the 2026 Recipients

The ten scholars awarded the CSX Pride in Service Scholarship are:

1. Luca Arnone (New York) - An incoming freshman at the Florida Institute of Technology, he aims to pursue a degree in aviation, inspired by his father, a retired FDNY Captain.

2. Emily Bartz (Maryland) - A freshman at Oregon State University, she plans to focus on natural resources, influenced by her parents’ careers in law enforcement and emergency medical services.

3. Lorenzo Bautista (Illinois) - Currently pursuing a Doctor of Medicine degree at Rosalind Franklin University, aiming to serve underserved communities, influenced by his father’s role in the Chicago Police Department.

4. Kristen Roth (New York) - Studying Physician Assistant Studies at Touro University, she is motivated by her late father’s legacy as an FDNY Captain.

5. Paxton Dulski (Florida) - An incoming freshman at Warner University focused on finance, he dedicates himself to community service and leadership.

6. Morgan Morris (Maryland) - A first-generation college student planning to study Biomedical Sciences at McDaniel College, shaped by her family’s dedication to emergency services.

7. Jamar Smith (Florida) - A graduate student pursuing a Physician Assistant degree, his experiences in various healthcare roles are rooted in his background as the child of a firefighter.

8. Jazmin Brown (Florida) - A sophomore at the University of Central Florida, pursuing Chemistry, inspired by her mother’s commitment to law enforcement.

9. Austin Parks (Ohio) - An engineering student at the University of Cincinnati motivated by his father’s recovery from a duty-related injury.

10. Makenzie Hodges (Indiana) - An incoming freshman at the University of Louisville, she'll be studying biology, motivated by her mother’s journey as a firefighter and EMT.

Commitment to Community and Education

FRCF’s partnership with CSX goes beyond scholarship awards. The organizations actively engage in community initiatives that provide financial aid, bereavement assistance, and a strong commitment to fostering relationships between law enforcement and community members. The CSX Pride in Service Scholarship is a testament to this goal of empowering future leaders who are inspired by the core values of service, resilience, and dedication.

Conclusion

As we celebrate the achievements of these ten scholars, we acknowledge the greater movement of support towards children of first responders. Their journeys are a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by their families and the profound impact these students can have on their communities. For further information, visit 1stRCF.org and connect with FRCF on social media for updates on their initiatives and support programs.