Joseph Xavier Smith, a resident of Haverhill and a graduate of Phillips Academy in Andover, has been selected as a Thoreau Scholar, marking a significant achievement as he embarks on his college journey this fall.
The Thoreau Scholarship, named in honor of the renowned 19th-century naturalist and author Henry David Thoreau, is an esteemed award presented annually to only eight high school seniors in Massachusetts. Valued at $26,000, this scholarship recognizes exceptional dedication to environmental stewardship and academic excellence.
Joseph Xavier Smith, son of Lisa Marie Foster and Joseph Z. Smith, attributes his passion for environmental advocacy to various influences, including his affinity for agriculture and his admiration for sustainable practices showcased on the Animal Planet TV show “Treehouse Master,” hosted by Pete Nelson. Additionally, fellow student activist Salvador Gomez-Colon and Mr. Anthony Lawson, Smith’s architecture teacher, played instrumental roles in shaping his environmental consciousness and commitment to community organizing and sustainable design.
In pursuit of his aspirations, Smith will be attending the University of San Francisco this fall, where he aims to explore innovative strategies for transforming urban landscapes into sustainable and affordable environments.
The Henry David Thoreau Scholarship provides recipients with a four-year tuition scholarship, offering flexibility for enrollment in any college or university worldwide while pursuing studies in environmentally-related fields. Thoreau Scholars are encouraged to engage in internships and study abroad opportunities to deepen their understanding of environmental issues and broaden their perspectives.
For more information about the Henry David Thoreau Foundation and the Thoreau Scholarship, interested individuals are encouraged to visit thoreauscholar.org. Scholarship applications open on October 15th with a deadline of February 1st.
