MEDA’s Rhonda Ray Scholarship: Fall 2025 Honoree

MEDA is honored to name Nicholas DiPietro as the Fall 2025 recipient of the Rhonda Ray Scholarship.

Nicholas, a recent graduate of Southern High School in Anne Arundel County, is pursuing a major in Agricultural and Resource Economics at the University of Maryland, College Park. This scholarship will support his enrollment in the Agricultural and Resource Economics course during the upcoming fall semester. Nicholas explains that completing this course will deepen his understanding of economic policies that complement agricultural practices. Through this scholarship, Nicholas aims to combine his passion for agriculture with a growing interest in economics, exploring how these fields can work together to strengthen communities and promote sustainable development.

MEDA established the Rhonda Ray Scholarship to honor the life and work of Rhonda Joy Ray, a dedicated economic development professional and valued MEDA member for over two decades. The scholarship continues her legacy by supporting students pursuing degrees and coursework in public policy, education, and economic development.

For Nicholas, receiving the Rhonda Ray Scholarship is a significant milestone toward his goal of one day working at the USDA as a national supply chain manager. “Being a Rhonda Ray Scholarship recipient is important to me because it shows that the people who selected me believe in my academic ability, leadership capabilities, and service commitment to my community,” Nicholas said. “It is an honor to receive it as Rhonda Ray herself dedicated herself to public service through trying to make Maryland a better place for all.”

Nicholas is a dedicated student leader with a strong academic background, active participation in athletics, and a commitment to community service. He has held leadership roles in the Future Farmers of America, serving as both Vice President and Secretary, and was a member of the National Honor Society and Math Honor Society. Outside the classroom, Nicholas competed as a varsity athlete in cross country, lacrosse, and track. He has gained hands-on experience working as a farm hand at Rose Hill Farm and in food service at Bayside Bull. His commitment to service is demonstrated through volunteer work with programs such as Shop with a Cop, Police Trunk or Treat, and the Lighthouse Food Pantry.

The deadline to apply for the Rhonda Ray Scholarship for the Spring semester is November 17, 2025. More information and the application link can be found here.