TOPP Foundation Announces 2026 Higher Education Scholarship Recipients

The TOPP Foundation is proud to announce the recipients of its 2026 Higher Education Scholarship, a program created to uplift young adults living with Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) as they take their next steps into college. This year's six scholarship recipients embody courage, determination, and resilience.

These scholarships represent more than financial assistance; they are a celebration of young people who have learned to balance academics and the daily demands of T1D with remarkable strength.

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2026 TOPP Higher Education Scholarship Recipients

• Chaselynn Spera Wright — Abington, Montgomery County — Exploring her academic interests at Temple University

• Emmanuelle Kramer — Ambler, Montgomery County — Studying environmental studies at Wesleyan University

• Jack Kenny — Warwick, Bucks County — Attending Penn State University, majoring in mathematics

• Paige Shearer — Hatfield, Montgomery County — Pursuing business studies at Saint Joseph's University

• Raymond Haglund — Holland, Bucks County — Studying physics at Saint Joseph's University

• Ryan Dikon — Newtown, Bucks County — Attending William & Mary, majoring in biology

"Managing T1D while juggling school and everyday life is tough, and these students show strength every single day. We're grateful to honor and acknowledge their resilience as they begin the next chapter of their lives," said Christine Gunsiorowski, President of the TOPP Foundation.

Understanding the Challenge of Type 1 Diabetes

Type 1 Diabetes is a lifelong autoimmune condition that requires constant monitoring, planning, and resilience. It means managing insulin dosing, medical technology, and unpredictable blood sugar changes that can cause symptoms such as shaking, dizziness, nausea, exhaustion, and difficulty concentrating. These symptoms often result from sudden drops or spikes in glucose, which can disrupt daily life without warning. Severe lows or highs can become life‑threatening if not treated quickly. These medical demands don't pause for school, sports, exams, or sleep — they are present 24/7.

Despite these challenges, the students recognized by TOPP continue to show extraordinary strength, navigating a demanding medical condition while pursuing their goals and proving that T1D may be difficult, but it does not limit their futures.

A Continued Commitment to the T1D Community

Since 2022, TOPP has awarded $10,500 in college scholarships to 21 students, including this year's recipients. The foundation's commitment to younger children remains just as strong. Since 2018, TOPP has provided $30,345 in camp scholarships to 53 children, helping young people with T1D attend overnight diabetes camps that foster connection, confidence, and community.

Combined, TOPP has now awarded $40,845 in scholarships to 74 children and teens, reflecting a deep and sustained investment in the T1D community.

Contact

For more information about TOPP, please visit toppfoundation.org or email christine@toppfund.org.