Melissa Daniels was a social worker— a woman of profound strength and optimism. Throughout her lifelong health challenges, she continued her education, eventually achieving her dreams to support and empower others as a patient advocate.

When Melissa passed away after a long battle with cystinosis, a rare genetic disease, her sister Becky channeled her grief into honoring Melissa’s dream of helping people in need. She rallied friends and family to give in Melissa’s memory to establish the Melissa Daniels Memorial Scholarship. Through this scholarship, Becky and her family honor Melissa and continue to celebrate her life through an annual scholarship to Becky and Melissa’s alma mater, Schenectady High School. The scholarship is awarded to a student committed to becoming a helper, supporting the next generation of social workers.

In 2021, Gabriella Jones was chosen as a recipient. Gabriella is studying at SUNY Schenectady County to become a social worker. She is a 2021 graduate of Schenectady High School and, like Melissa, has big dreams. We met Gabriella on campus and Gabriella and Becky connected immediately.

“I saw so much of my sister in Gabriella. Her kindness, openness, and incredible drive to achieve her dreams… it was so reminiscent of how Melissa approached her education and goals. I’m so proud that our fund could help her on her journey.” – Becky Daniels