Scholarships

The Boomer Esiason Foundation Scholarship Program was established in 2003 to provide meaningful financial support to students in the cystic fibrosis community who are pursuing higher education. Recognizing the unique challenges faced by those living with or impacted by CF, the program aims to empower students to reach their academic goals without being burdened by financial stress. Through these scholarships, BEF is proud to support and recognize the strength, resilience, and aspirations of individuals who are part of the CF community.

Scholarships

Boomer Esiason Foundation Academic Scholarship

Deadline: April 2027

The BEF Academic Scholarship supports students living with cystic fibrosis by easing financial burdens so they can focus on their education. Each year, BEF awards scholarships to exceptional students who show resilience, dedication, and academic excellence. Applicants may also qualify for additional financial assistance by submitting an optional essay tied to one of several special scholarship designations, including:

 

  • Bonnie Strangio Memorial
  • Rosemary Quigley Memorial
  • Jerry Cahill You Cannot Fail Distinction
  • Lea Faraone Memorial
  • Tiffany Rich Memorial 
  • Team Boomer Distinction
  • Exemplary Graduate Student Distinction

For more details and to apply:

CLICK HERE

Paul Drury Memorial Scholarship

Deadline: April 2027

The Paul Drury Memorial Scholarship honors the legacy of Paul Drury, whose strength and determination while living with cystic fibrosis continue to inspire. This scholarship is uniquely dedicated to siblings and children of individuals with CF, recognizing the vital support they provide in the face of the disease’s challenges. It celebrates their role in uplifting and encouraging their loved ones and acknowledges the impact CF has on the entire family—not just those diagnosed.

For more details and to apply:

CLICK HERE

Meet a BEF Scholar

Cameron Mahanke

2026 BEF Academic Scholarship Recipient

“I am incredibly grateful and honored to be selected as a 2026 Boomer Esiason Foundation Academic Scholarship recipient. This scholarship is especially meaningful because it supports a journey shaped by both medicine and personal experience. Living with cystic fibrosis has given me firsthand insight into the challenges of chronic illness, but it has also shown me the profound impact that compassionate healthcare providers can have on a patient’s life. As a second-year medical student, I hope to pursue a career in surgery while drawing on my experiences with CF to care for others with compassion, resilience, and hope. Thank you to the Boomer Esiason Foundation for supporting my journey toward becoming a physician and empowering me to advocate for individuals living with cystic fibrosis.” 

Maeve McNulty

2026 Paul Drury Memorial Scholarship Recipient

“Receiving the Paul Drury scholarship means so much to me because it recognizes a journey that has shaped who I am. Growing up with a mother who has cystic fibrosis taught me resilience, compassion, and the importance of cherishing every moment. As I pursue my goal of becoming an occupational therapist, this support helps me continue my education and work toward making a meaningful difference in the lives of others.”

Isabella Banaszynski

2026 BEF Academic Scholarship Recipient 

“I could not be more honored and humbled to receive the 2026 Team Boomer Distinction. As much as Cystic Fibrosis has been a part of my story, athletics has always been right by its side. Throughout my journey, I have found community, purpose, confidence, and a sense of belonging in athletics. Whether it be hockey, or volleyball, or dance, or swim, or track, or ultimately my soul sport of women’s wrestling, sports have taught me resilience, discipline, and how to push beyond limitations. This scholarship is a meaningful reminder that the challenges I’ve faced do not define me, but have molded me into who I am today. I am proud to represent the CF community and grateful for the opportunity to continue pursuing my academic and athletic goals.”