Submitted by Marie and Howie Field
(June 3, 2025) — The Nathaniel B. Field Memorial Foundation, Inc. awarded six $1,000 scholarships to Haddam-Killingworth High School students on June 2, 2025. Christiana Field gave the following speech at the Scholarship Night event:
“Good Evening, Everyone. The mission of the Nathaniel B. Field Memorial Foundation, Inc. is to prevent suicide through public awareness and education, to reduce the stigma of mental illness and to provide hope and support.
It means a great deal to be here tonight, recognizing this year’s recipients of the Nathaniel B. Field Memorial Foundation scholarship, given in memory of my brother, Nathan. This year, in honor of the tenth anniversary of Nathan’s passing, we are proud to award more scholarships than ever before.
Choosing to pursue a path in STEM or mental health isn’t just about picking a major or a job. It’s about stepping into a role that calls for curiosity, compassion and a deep desire to make a difference. By taking this step, you’re joining a community of innovators, problem-solvers and advocates who are working to change the world.
STEM is more than science and technology. It’s about using those tools to solve real-world problems, improve lives and build a better future. And if your journey leads you into the field of mental health, you’re choosing to be a source of hope, understanding and strength for others. You’ll be helping people navigate their toughest moments and challenging the stigma that still surrounds mental health today.
No matter which direction you take, remember this: your curiosity and compassion are powerful. And tonight, we celebrate not just your achievements, but the incredible impact you’re preparing to make.
Please help me by congratulating this year’s recipients (photo above, left to right): Margaret Robinson, Ava Mazzotta, Chase Lenart, Cody Robinson, Seanna Ruimerman and Jeff Thebeau.”
Photo by HKHS Staff
