The $5,000 Pat Ganter Scholarship is awarded annually to a graduating Berks County high school senior who is planning to pursue a college degree with the intentions of aiding community efforts to provide substance use prevention, treatment and recovery services. Each year, scholarships are awarded in May.
This year, we are proud to award the Pat Ganter Scholarship to Wilson High School senior Bella DiGiacomo. Bella plans to attend Eastern University, where she will major in Social Work. In her application, Bella shared her passion for supporting children impacted by substance use disorders. She expressed a desire to be “a consistent resource throughout their educational career” and to serve as a trusted adult—someone who helps keep them safe in a world that can often feel uncertain.
Through her future career in social work, Bella hopes to provide a reliable and safe space for children, ensuring continuity and support for families, filling in critical gaps, and making a meaningful difference in the lives of young people.
Application essay entries will be judged upon the following criteria:
Patricia Ganter, as a dedicated employee of the Council on Chemical Abuse and Caron Treatment Centers, was recognized by colleagues for her commitment to the field of addiction and recovery. In her role as Administrative Assistant with these organizations, Patricia displayed compassion and optimism for those challenged by addiction. She will long be remembered for her steadfast belief in the power of recovery.
Bennyli Suero is a graduating senior at Reading High School. She plans to attend Thomas Jefferson University in the fall to study Biomedical Technology in order to “prevent addictions at their core, aiding genetic disparities that influence our capabilities of developing addiction”. In addition to graduating in the top 10% of her class, Mrs. Suero spent her time at Reading High as a member of Project Peace, JROTC, Student Council, Percussion/ Jazz Band, and National Honor Society.
The 2024 scholarship was awarded to Katelynn Humbles, a senior at Conrad Weiser High School planning to attend Kutztown University to study art education. Her award was presented by COCA Board President Courtenay Dillard during the Prevention Week Celebration held at the RISE Recovery Center.
We're sorry! Applications are now closed for the 2026 Pat Ganter Scholarship. The 2027 scholarship will be available in the spring of 2027.
