Meet Grace Reteneller: Early Childhood Education Major and 2024 Leadership Scholarship Winner

Meet Grace Reteneller: Early Childhood Education Major and 2024 Leadership Scholarship Winner

Philadelphia, Pa.

1. What has been your favorite thing about DeSales so far?

Being a member of the women's soccer team. Coming into preseason, all the girls on the team made me feel so welcome, especially since the transition to college was challenging. Since I met them, they have become like my family. We are such a close-knit group and that makes it very special.

2. Why did you choose to study early childhood education?

I chose to study early childhood education because I have always wanted to be a teacher for as long as I can remember. Whenever I had a test to study for, I would pretend to teach my stuffed animals the material that I needed to learn. They were my first students!

3. Why do you think the best leaders listen more than they talk?

Listen, learn, lead. That is one of my mottos. I believe a person needs to listen first in order to lead. Sometimes the most important thing you can do is to listen, not form opinions, not give advice, and just be present. There are many more things you learn when you listen rather than talk, and it makes you a very good leader.

4. How has your relationship with God helped you to become a better leader?

Faith has always provided me with the strength to overcome challenges. My relationship with God helps me lead with compassion, empathy, and understanding.

5. What are some specific causes or issues you're passionate about addressing and why?

As a member of Morgan's Light Alliance, spreading awareness about domestic violence is something that I feel very strongly about. Morgan attended the same high school as me, so I have a personal connection to her. I have been involved in spreading awareness about domestic violence abuse since high school, and I continue to be very passionate about this specific cause. Other clubs and opportunities on campus I am looking forward to participating in are Special Olympics and the Student Athletic Advisory Committee.

The Leadership Scholarship is a full-tuition scholarship offered to six students who have shown outstanding leadership in their high school careers and who plan to continue to develop those skills at DeSales. The deadline to submit your application, essay, and resume is Sunday, December 1, 2024.