The Randall/LaRossa College Scholarship Fund was established in 2009 to honor Peter Randall, MD and Don LaRossa, MD for their work to enhance the quality of life for individuals affected by cleft lip/palate and other craniofacial conditions. The fund was developed by friends and colleagues of Dr. Randall and Dr. LaRossa in appreciation of their mentorship, friendship, and dedication to serving children. Congratulations to the very deserving recipients below!
Annie Chen
“My cleft journey has been filled with mixed emotions, but the experience of it has become a motivator to be the best version of myself! It has taught me to have a positive outlook on life. I am incredibly thankful to receive this scholarship as it’ll go towards my tuition at University of California San Diego as a molecular biology major!”
Charlotte Gould
“I will be attending Arizona State University, where I plan to pursue a dual major in political science and business on a pre-law track, preparing for a future career in law. My cleft journey has been a defining part of my life, shaping my perspective and commitment to advocacy. I started my business at seven years old where I design and sew customizable surgery companion dolls for children undergoing medical procedures. My dolls are a tool for education, comfort and facial equality for children.
I have also expanded my advocacy through my work with the ELSA Bill in Congress, collaborating with others to support and uplift the craniofacial community. This year, I had the opportunity to speak at the ACPA Conference in Boston as part of a panel on advocacy, sharing my experiences and emphasizing the importance of patient voice. This scholarship will ease financial barriers and allow me to continue both my education and advocacy, reinforcing my commitment to creating meaningful change for others navigating similar journeys.”
Joyce Li
“My name is Joyce, and this fall I will be studying Biology at Duke University. Growing up with a cleft lip and palate gave me a firsthand understanding of the power behind medicine. From that experience, I developed a deep passion for medicine and a dream of becoming a doctor. I am incredibly honored to be a Randall/LaRossa College Scholarship Recipient, and this scholarship means the world to me as I take my first steps toward becoming a physician.”
Connor Watts
“Hi! My name is Connor Watts. I’m an 18 year old senior at Johnson Central High School in Eastern Kentucky. In the fall, I will be attending the University of Kentucky to study biology on the pre-med track. After obtaining my undergraduate degree, I plan to complete medical school and then post graduate training to become an ear, nose, and throat physician.
My journey with a cleft lip and palate has always been an integral part of my everyday life and, as for many cleft kids, my journey has had its ups and downs. My cleft lip and palate were the result of a rare genetic disorder that I have called ectodermal dysplasia. I have had frequent medical appointments and approximately 30 surgeries that I have had to balance with school and my extracurricular activities. Thankfully, I have been blessed with an amazing group of healthcare specialists that have given me the best treatment possible, as well as supportive friends and family. I have maintained a 4.0 GPA throughout my academic career and have learned how to adapt to lifestyle changes as a result of hardships. At the beginning of my journey, I struggled with confidence issues and speech and eating difficulties. These issues were most difficult at school because I couldn’t always eat lunch and many kids didn’t understand my condition. However, my confidence significantly improved over time as I understood the importance of valuing the unique experiences and viewpoint that having a cleft lip and palate has given me.
This scholarship from the ACPA will help me fund my undergraduate expenses at the University of Kentucky, allowing me to focus more on my education and career goals. I am very humbled and grateful to be a recipient of this scholarship.”
