Emma Neary, ’23 Awarded YMCA Greenwich “Women Who Inspire Next Generation” Award

Emma Neary ’23 was awarded the YWCA Greenwich 2022 Women Who Inspire Next Generation Award. This award recognizes Emma’s incredible efforts to support the Leukemia Lymphoma Society. Last year, Emma raised $115,000 in seven weeks, earning her a third place achievement in the LLS Student of the Year initiative. 

Emma was nominated to begin her campaign in the fall of 2021. She quickly mobilized “Hearts for a Cure,” a team of 18 multi-generational members, including grandparents, parents, family friends, and three other Sacred Heart students, Gigi Gazal, Sophia Morales, and Jenny DiCapua. With Emma at the helm, their team raised funds and raised awareness. Emma organized two local shopping events with Z-Life and MisFit Bazaar, in addition to seeking corporate donations and managing a vast email and online drive.

Emma set her sights high- with a fundraising target of $100,000. Thanks to her tremendous hard work and determination, Emma surpassed her goal. Now she is able to direct these funds towards two specific research grants within LLS: the LLS Children’s Initiative, which treats pediatric cancer patients, and the Acute Myeloid Leukemia Myelodysplastic Syndromes, in honor of Emma’s grandmother who passed from MDS. 

Emma credits Sacred Heart as influencing her skillful ability to motivate and manage such a tremendous project. “At Sacred Heart, I’ve been taught to speak up and use my voice. I was nervous at first to accept the position of running. But I thought of all the times at school when I’ve been told that I am a leader. I thought of how my work could make a difference to others, and how much Sacred Heart has made a difference in my life. I really believe that all the skills I needed for this came from Sacred Heart.”

We are so proud of Emma’s accomplishments. Her dedication to the Leukemia Lymphoma Society is an impressive example of Goal IV and an inspiring demonstration of Emma’s commitment to service. Congratulations, Emma!