Name: Laura DiCola

Occupation: Senior Program Officer for Education

Employer: GAR Foundation

Name of High School and location: Central Catholic High School – Canton, Ohio

Name of College #1 and location: The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio (BA Psychology)

Name of College #2 and location: The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law, Columbus, Ohio  (Juris Doctorate)

Name of College #3 and location: Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio (MA Bioethics)

Name of your favorite teacher and what made the person special to you (any grade level, including college):  Coach Lowell Klinefelter (High School Chemistry Teacher). As one of only 4 girls in Honors Chemistry, Coach Klinefelter scared me silly, especially when he would pose a question to the class and say “Let’s pick on the ladies.” Every single one of us would immediately put our heads down. But he really pushed me to tackle a subject that was very challenging for me. I’m grateful to him!

What were some of your most enjoyable times in school (any grade level): My 8th grade school play and running track. (I discovered that I was good at hurdles in the 8th grade!)

Looking back over the years, what advice would you give to your high school self or college self: Going outside your comfort zone takes courage but don’t be afraid to try new things. You might not think so now, but being different is cool!

The reason(s) you are raising funds to support Project GRAD Akron ’s scholarships and programs: I was a first-generation college student and having adults who mentored me, believed in me and helped me navigate the process in ways my family could not, made all the difference in the world to me. Project GRAD Akron helps students see themselves in ways they may have never considered and then empowers them with the tools and support to get there so they can thrive in school and in life.

Favorite quote: “Real change, enduring change, happens one step at a time” – Justice Ruth Bader
Ginsburg