LYNN — The Lynn Housing Authority & Neighborhood Development (LHAND) celebrated the achievements of 53 graduating Lynn high school seniors by awarding almost $40,000 in scholarships at its annual scholarship dinner on Tuesday.

The event was coordinated by John Ladd, Jason Newhall, Hector Xaltipa, Kassandra Lopez, and Stephanie Letch, and welcomed Sen. Brendan Crighton and Rep. Dan Cahill, who have been longtime supporters of the LHAND Scholarship Fund.

While LHAND is best known for its commitment to providing affordable, high-quality housing, the organization also places a strong emphasis on expanding educational opportunities for Lynn’s youth. Through longstanding partnerships with guidance counselors across the city’s high schools, LHAND has been able to identify and assist students who demonstrate promise and determination in pursuing their educational goals.

“Scholarships like these play a significant role in our students’ journey toward higher education,” Crighton said. “We’re proud to support them as they work toward their goals, and we want each recipient to know that all of Lynn stands behind them — especially the dedicated team at LHAND.”

Since its founding in 1998, the LHAND Scholarship Fund has helped local students pursue their educational aspirations through the generosity of community members, families, businesses, and nonprofit organizations.

This year, scholarship committee members noted the exceptional quality of applications submitted by students. Recognizing that many graduates are choosing pathways beyond traditional four-year colleges, LHAND introduced a new scholarship category geared to students
pursuing careers in trade and technology, including those attending trade schools, cosmetology programs, or entering military service. The organization remains committed to supporting all forms of post-secondary education and career development.

“This cause is deeply important to us at LHAND,” said Executive Director Charles Gaeta. “We understand the financial challenges that come with pursuing post-secondary education, and we do our best each year to ease that burden for as many students as possible. We’re excited to watch these students grow into young professionals, and we hope they return in the future to give back to the community that raised them.”

As LHAND looks ahead, preparations are underway for the annual golf tournament in September, which will serve as a key fundraiser supporting scholarships for next year’s graduating seniors.