In a heartfelt tribute to the late Kayla Rooney, who passed away suddenly at only 16-years-old, family and friends have come together to establish a memorial scholarship fund.
Known in the Yonkers community as a vibrant young sportswoman involved in camogie and Gaelic football, Kayla will be honored through a scholarship aimed at supporting students from her alma mater, Yonkers Montessori Academy, to pursue their college dreams.
Kayla’s lifelong aspiration was to attend college. Through the Kayla Rooney Memorial Scholarship Fund, her family wishes to fulfill that dream for one of her classmates. In the words of her mother, Siobhán Rooney, “Kayla expressed a lifelong dream to attend college. She had been so excited to start the process of applying to schools in the hope of perhaps receiving a scholarship of her own.”
The scholarship fund seeks to ease the financial burden of higher education for deserving students. Impressively, donations already exceed its $10,000 target. To apply for the scholarship, Yonkers Montessori Academy seniors must submit a 200-word essay on the importance of community and giving back.
Celebrating Kayla’s Community Impact
The scholarship fund is a testament to Kayla’s presence in her community. As Siobhán stated, “Anybody who knew Kayla would describe her as a loyal and selfless friend. She had a laugh that would echo through any room and a warm and kind soul.” The community has already rallied behind the cause, surpassing the initial fundraising goal with over $21,000 in donations so far.
To honor Kayla’s legacy through sports, her sister Sarah and friends have organized volleyball and basketball tournaments. They will contribute donations raised to the scholarship fund. Siobhán expressed gratitude for the support.
“We are hoping to add to the funds raised already by her sister Sarah and her many friends. We would greatly appreciate any small contribution to the fund which would help enormously in keeping our beautiful girl’s memory alive.”
St. Brigid’s Ladies Gaelic Football and Camogie Club, where Kayla played, expressed deep sadness and extended condolences to her family. Kayla’s infectious smile, both on and off the field, will be fondly remembered by those whose lives she touched. As the scholarship fund grows, the community is coming together to celebrate Kayla’s spirit. And moreover, to support future generations of students in her honor.
Visit GoFundMe to donate to the Kayla Rooney Memorial Scholarship Fund.
