Bishop Ryan's Paolo Ramelli Named 2024 Loran Scholar, Among Top Achievers Nationwide
The Hamilton-Wentworth Catholic District School Board is delighted to announce Paolo Ramelli, a graduating student from Bishop Ryan Catholic Secondary School, as one of the distinguished recipients of the 2024 Loran Scholarship. This prestigious award recognizes Paolo's exceptional leadership, service, and academic achievements, placing him among the top achievers nationwide.
From his early years at St. David Catholic Elementary School, where the seed of his commitment to community service was planted, to his active engagement at Bishop Ryan Catholic Secondary School, Paolo consistently demonstrates dedication and excellence in all his endeavors. As the Founding President of the DECA Business Club, a member of the Law Club, and a valuable contributor to various school committees, Paolo has demonstrated his passion for learning and his commitment to making a positive impact on his Catholic school community.
Paolo's dedication extends beyond the classroom as he volunteers as a coach for an organization providing sports programs for individuals with disabilities and engages in recreational activities with seniors in a Long-Term Care Home, utilizing AI robotics. Despite his busy schedule, he maintains his dedication to competitive soccer, where he excels as a goalie.
When asked about his ambitions, Paolo said "I've always had a passion for the fields of business, engineering, and law, which is why I've chosen to pursue business and commerce at Queen's University," Paolo explains. "I believe this decision will lay a strong foundation for my future aspirations in law. Ultimately, I hope to utilize my skills to advocate for those in need, especially the underprivileged, and positively impact their lives."
Paolo's decision to attend Queen's University, from a selection of 25 partner universities, underscores his deliberate approach to his academic and professional journey. Queen's University has acknowledged his achievements by awarding him the Queen's University Chancellor's Scholarship. This prestigious scholarship, valued at $48,000, is granted to only 50 students selected based on nominations by high school principals and detailed application submissions.
In September, Paolo will leave Hamilton for Kingston, where he will immerse himself in university life, living in residence at Queen's University. He looks forward to meeting new people, to making new connections, especially with others in the Loran program and past scholars as well.
When asked what advice he might have for other students, Paolo shared: "Always support people, always be yourself, and do the things you want to do. Don't be afraid of making new connections."
The Loran Award is a prestigious four-year leadership enrichment program. Award recipients are designated Loran Scholars, named "Loran" for Long-Range Aid to Navigation. This system uses three points - character, service, and leadership - to determine one's course for a long journey. The name emphasizes the lifelong impact and values of being a Loran Scholar.
Out of over 5,000 applicants, Loran invited 90 finalists from across Canada to participate in National Selections, selecting 36 scholars. The Loran Award is the only award of its kind in the country, with a total value of $100,000.
As Paolo embarks on this new chapter, his Catholic education has instilled in him values of faith, integrity, and service. His journey as a Loran Scholar will undoubtedly continue to reflect these principles, inspiring others to pursue their aspirations with determination and compassion.
We congratulate Paolo on this remarkable achievement. His journey epitomizes the values of academic excellence, leadership, and community service, inspiring others to strive for excellence and make a positive difference in the world.
Learn more about the Loran Scholars
