HONORING A LEGACY: THE KORY SCHRAMM ’99 #33 SCHOLARSHIP 17 and Its Impact on Aquinas Scholars Each year, the Aquinas community honors the legacy of Kory Schramm ’99 through the #33 Endowed Memorial Scholarship. This prestigious meritbased award is a testament to Kory’s life and values, recognizing students who exemplify academic excellence, exceptional character, and a commitment to living the Aquinas mission. For the 2024-25 academic year, the scholarship has been awarded to Annabella “Bella” Muratore ‘26, a student whose accomplishments and character truly reflect the spirit of Kory’s remarkable legacy. The Kory Schramm ‘99 #33 Scholarship Fund was established in 2005 by Kory’s parents, Kurt and Wendy Schramm, along with his classmate and friend, Colby Khuns ’99. Together, they sought to preserve Kory’s memory by supporting students who embody the same virtues that defined his life. An outstanding student and athlete, Kory left a lasting mark on the Aquinas community through his determination, generosity, and unwavering positivity. Despite his untimely passing in 2004, Kory’s legacy endures—not only in the hearts of those who knew him but also through this scholarship, which continues to inspire future generations of Aquinas students. Kory’s journey at AQ exemplified what it means to be an “Aquinas Man.” A dedicated student, he excelled academically, earning awards in subjects like Latin, Chemistry, and Mathematics. On the athletic field, Kory’s tenacity and work ethic shone brightly. As a member of the boxing team, he was recognized for his skill and dedication, receiving accolades such as the Muhammad Ali Boxing Award. On the football field, Kory overcame obstacles with resilience and determination, proving that heart and perseverance outweigh physical limitations. His leadership and athletic prowess extended beyond Aquinas, culminating in a decorated college football career at Hartwick College, where his number, 33, was retired in his honor. The scholarship named for Kory is awarded annually to a sophomore or junior who embodies his character traits: resilience, humility, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to academics and athletics. Bella Muratore ‘26 was chosen as this year’s recipient because of her impressive accomplishments and her dedication to the ideals that Kory exemplified. Reflecting on the significance of merit scholarships at Aquinas, it is clear they serve as more than just financial assistance. These awards recognize and reward students for their hard work, leadership, and character, encouraging them to strive for greatness in all areas of life. For Bella, receiving the Kory Schramm Scholarship is a tremendous honor and a reminder of the values she aims to uphold in her time at Aquinas and beyond. “Receiving the Kory Schramm Scholarship means to be a part of something bigger than myself. It is a tie to the Aquinas community, one that Kory loved. I felt honored to be chosen for this award, as I know it is given to a person who gives 100% of themselves in the classroom, on the sports field, and within the AQ community. Like Kory, I too love Aquinas and work hard to represent our school in the best possible light. So many amazing recipients have been given this scholarship in the past, and I am humbled to be part of this very special group.” – Bella Muratore ‘26 Bella describes how the more she learned about Kory, the more inspired she felt by his story. Receiving a scholarship named for the “Aquinas Man” himself has been an incredible honor for her. “I am committed to carrying out Kory’s legacy and representing the AQ community in a way that would make him proud. I know that if Kory were here today, he’d want all AQ students to take advantage of every opportunity that comes our way, to work hard, have fun, and take care of one another. He has taught me what an amazing impact one person can have on the world around them, and I will continue to give 110% to carry on his legacy at Aquinas and wherever life takes me.” Through the generosity of the Schramm family and friends, and countless of others who have supported the #33 Scholarship Fund, Aquinas continues to celebrate Kory’s enduring legacy. His story reminds us that the true measure of a person is not in their size or circumstances but in the size of their heart and their determination to make an impact. As we honor Kory’s memory through this scholarship, we also celebrate students like Bella, who carry his spirit forward and represent the very best of what it means to be part of the AQ family. Bella expresses her heartfelt gratitude to Mr. and Mrs. Schramm, and Kory’s many friends, family members, and classmates who make this scholarship possible. As she shares, “Your generosity has impacted the lives of so many AQ students and I can’t thank you enough for all you’ve done for me and my family this year. Because of you, Kory lives on within our community and continues to touch the lives of so many.” For more information about the Kory Schramm ‘99 #33 Scholarship and other scholarship opportunities at Aquinas, scan the QR code to visit our Scholarships and Awards page. Bella Muratore ‘26 with Wendy Camp Schramm and Kurt Schramm, parents of Kory Schramm ‘99, at the 21st Annual Golf Tournament which raises funds for Kory’s Scholarship Thank you to Kurt and Wendy Schramm for their donation from the 21st Annual Kory Schramm Golf Tournament
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