Thanks to Loukas Nakos, his wife Christine, and their daughters Jaclyn, Hayley, and Rachel, many students at the University of New Hampshire’s College of Health and Human Services continue to receive direct support to achieve their dreams of a healthcare career.
The Nakos Family Scholarship Fund by Hope Strengthens Foundation was established in 2021, driven by the Nakos family’s generosity and deep connection to UNH. Loukas (‘83) and their daughters Jaclyn (‘15 and ‘16G) and Rachel (‘19) are proud Wildcat graduates. The fund prioritizes first-generation college students pursuing healthcare careers at the university.
“I truly believe UNH is the greatest school and Hope Strengthens Foundation is the best charity in the nation,” said Loukas. “Our family is honored to work with such wonderful institutions to assist the next generation of healthcare professionals.”
Over the coming months, we will proudly feature some of these outstanding scholarship recipients. First up is Sarah DeMelo.
Why did you choose UNH?
“I chose to enroll at UNH because of its strong academic reputation and its commitment to hands-on learning, specifically in nursing. The university’s focus on clinical excellence and evidence-based practice aligns with my goals as a nursing student. I was also drawn to the sense of community at UNH, as it felt like a home away from home when visiting.”
What are your goals?
“My ultimate goal is to continue my education post-graduation to become an Acute Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, and I hope to get a specialization in oncology to be able to be a Pediatric Oncology Nurse Practitioner. I will be the first in my family to go to college and the first in my entire family on both sides to be in healthcare.”
What does this scholarship mean to you?
“I would like to sincerely thank you for investing in my education and future. As a first-generation nursing student, pursuing higher education is both an honor and a challenge, and your generosity helps make this journey possible. Your support not only eases the financial burden but also motivates me to work harder and continue striving toward my goal of becoming a compassionate and dedicated nurse. I am truly grateful for your belief in students like me.”
If you would like to contribute to this vital scholarship fund, 100 percent of your tax-deductible donation will directly support remarkable students like Sarah. Any amount makes a difference, and simply sharing this link with your network can be a huge help. Thank you!