Blanson CTE High School Student Earns Full-Ride Scholarship to University of Notre Dame Through QuestBridge

In a remarkable achievement, Kaiden Johnnie, a student at Blanson Career and Technology Education High School (Blanson CTEHS), has been awarded a full-ride scholarship to the University of Notre Dame through the prestigious QuestBridge program.

Kaiden’s journey to this accomplishment began when she discovered the QuestBridge scholarship through the EMERGE Program, an initiative she actively participates in. Despite hopeful aspirations, Kaiden was pleasantly surprised to be selected for the scholarship, marking a significant turning point in her academic trajectory.

This scholarship not only alleviates financial concerns for Kaiden and her family but also opens the door for her to pursue higher education at one of the nation’s top institutions. Given the financial challenges her family has faced, Kaiden’s achievement holds particular significance.

Beyond her academic excellence, with a 4.0 GPA and a class rank of 3rd, Kaiden actively manages her commitments. She is a prominent figure in the Emerge Organization, serves as a Blanson CTEHS Ambassador, and leads as the team captain for Blanson’s Academic Decathlon team. Additionally, she is involved in the Business Professionals of America organization.

Kaiden’s passion for learning aligns with her aspirations to pursue a degree in computer science and engineering, possibly extending her education beyond college.

The University of Notre Dame, with an average cost of $83,271 for the 2023-2024 academic year, is now within Kaiden’s reach, thanks to the QuestBridge National College Match Scholarship.

About QuestBridge

QuestBridge, a national nonprofit, recently announced the results of its 2023 National College Match, connecting high-achieving students from low-income backgrounds with full four-year scholarships to 50 of the nation’s best colleges. Out of over 20,800 applicants, QuestBridge selected 6,683 Finalists, and this year marked the highest number of Match Scholarship Recipients to date, with 2,242 students matched with 50 college partners.

These outstanding seniors boast an average unweighted GPA of 3.94, with 93% in the top 10% of their graduating class. Notably, 92% come from households with an annual income under $65,000, and 87% qualify for free or reduced-price school meals. A majority, 82%, are the first generation in their families to attend a four-year college in the United States, exemplifying QuestBridge’s commitment to bridging educational opportunities for high-achieving students from diverse backgrounds.