Sparks Foundation and IHSAA

The Sparks Foundation in partnership with the Indiana High School Athletic Association (IHSAA) proudly reveals the outstanding recipients of the prestigious 2023 IHSAA Sparks Foundation Scholarship.

This year, the scholarship has been awarded to two high school seniors who have demonstrated excellence both on the field and in the classroom.

Chenyze DeBerry, hailing from Gary West High School, and James Cannon, representing Evansville Christian, have been chosen as the recipients of this scholarship, each receiving a scholarship of $1,000.

The IHSAA Sparks Foundation Scholarship is a testament to the commitment of these students to their athletic and academic pursuits. It recognizes individuals who have not only displayed exceptional talent in sports but have also excelled academically, showcasing a well-rounded dedication to their education and extracurricular activities.

Director of the IHSAA Foundation, Trip Lukemeyer, emphasized the valuable life skills that high school athletics impart to students. He stated, "High school athletics teaches many skills, including adaptability and perseverance. I am reminded why this Foundation and the IHSAA are so important as those skills which are taught on the field, on the court, and in the pool, continue to shine through in these moments."

This scholarship program has a rich history of supporting the brightest student-athletes across Indiana. Previous recipients include Beau Brown of Mishawaka High School and Dory O'Dell of Greenwood Christian Academy in 2022, as well as Bridget Lohrey of Shenandoah High School and Blake Stubbs of New Albany High School in 2021.

The IHSAA Sparks Foundation Scholarship nurtures young leaders and scholars of Indiana to strive for excellence in future endeavors. Congratulations to Chenyze DeBerry and James Cannon on their well-deserved achievement!