Maria Palazzolo, daughter of Paul and Suanne Palazzolo of Springfield, has been chosen to participate in the prestigious Hesburgh-Yusko Scholar Program at the University of Notre Dame this coming fall.

The Hesburgh-Yusko scholarship program is a comprehensive, merit-based program that seeks to attract, encourage and equip extraordinary students who will have a transformational effect on the Notre Dame community, the church and the world.

Students are selected who have the potential to be a leader in the image of Father Theodore M. Hesburgh, CSC, who was president of Notre Dame for 35 years. During their career at Notre Dame, Hesburgh-Yusko Scholars will develop their passions and discover their purpose.

Maria, a senior at Sacred Heart-Griffin High School, is an active member of Key Club and currently serves as the president of Key Club International. She has maintained a presence on the High Honor Roll, is a student ambassador and is a dedicated volunteer in the community.