2026 Recipient

Sydney is a dedicated and compassionate student whose passion for helping others has guided both her academic and personal journey. She attended Emory University, where she majored in Public Health and Sociology, focusing on supporting underserved communities and educating high school students about substance abuse prevention and awareness.

Adopted from Hong Kong at the age of one alongside her sister, Sydney was raised by her single mother, whose strength and support helped shape the resilient person she is today.

While attending college, Sydney worked as a tutor for undergraduate students to help offset the cost of her education, demonstrating both determination and a strong commitment to academic success.

In 2022, Sydney joined the Peace Corps and traveled to Nepal, where she taught English before beginning graduate school in Atlanta in 2025. Her experiences abroad further strengthened her desire to create meaningful change through education and public health advocacy.

Outside of her studies and service work, Sydney enjoys running and working out. Her friends describe her as resilient, genuine, and never one to give up.

What resonated most with Sydney about the Ryan Lipparelli Educational Trust was its spirit of generosity and giving back. She shared that she was especially inspired by the organization’s “pay it forward” philosophy — a value she hopes to continue through her own work and service to others.