Honoring Resilience and Leadership: Ari Named Matthew R. Craddock Memorial Scholarship Recipient

The Broomfield Community Foundation is proud to announce Ari as the 2025 recipient of the Matthew R. Craddock Memorial Scholarship. This prestigious scholarship, established to honor the legacy of Coach Craddock—a long-time coach and educator within the Adams 12 Five Star School District—recognizes a graduating senior who demonstrates perseverance, leadership, and a commitment to community. Ari embodies these qualities through his personal journey, leadership roles, and service to others.

Ari’s story is one of strength and authenticity. Moving from a predominantly Black community in Georgia to a predominantly white neighborhood in Colorado posed emotional and social challenges. He struggled to fit in while confronting microaggressions and stereotypes from classmates and teammates. Yet, instead of conforming, Ari chose authenticity—embracing his multiracial identity and unique family structure. He sought out meaningful connections, encouraged open dialogue, and advocated for inclusivity. Through these experiences, Ari cultivated resilience and deepened his belief in the importance of embracing and celebrating diversity.

Beyond the personal, Ari has made a profound impact in his school and community. As a co-captain of the Legacy basketball team, a multi-sport athlete, and a dedicated volunteer with Thornton Fire and STADIUM MEDICAL, Ari leads by example—demonstrating discipline, positivity, and a commitment to service. His goal is to pursue a degree in Kinesiology with a concentration in Pre-Athletic Training at Coe College, where he will continue playing varsity basketball. With aspirations to become an athletic trainer for a professional sports team, Ari is well on his way to combining his passion for sports with a lifelong dedication to helping others—honoring Coach Craddock’s spirit of mentorship, perseverance, and excellence.

Scholarship Spotlight: Audrey Thompson —

Dr. Bill and Jean Markel Medical Scholarship Recipient

Audrey Thompson, a graduate of Prospect Ridge Academy, was selected as this year’s Dr. Bill and Jean Markel Medical Scholarship recipient. She is currently enrolled in Gannon University’s five-year accelerated Physician Assistant program. Audrey will earn her B.S. in Health Sciences in May 2025 and complete her M.S. in Physician Assistant Science in August 2026. Her passion for healthcare is deeply rooted in a desire to serve underserved and diverse populations, uphold strong ethical standards, and promote patient advocacy and accessibility.

“I envision returning to Broomfield to practice in primary care,” Audrey shared. “I want to build lasting relationships with patients, advocate for equitable access to healthcare, and help foster interdisciplinary collaboration within my future practice.”

Audrey credits her older sister as the most influential person in her life. “She’s always been my biggest supporter, role model, and motivator,” Audrey said. Both siblings began their intensive medical training this year—Audrey in PA school and her sister in medical school—offering each other unwavering encouragement through the journey.

Audrey’s story reflects the heart of the Markel Scholarship: dedication to community, compassionate patient care, and a steadfast commitment to excellence in the medical field. With her drive and compassionate outlook, Audrey is poised to make a meaningful impact on the future of healthcare.

Qynton Salyer Named 2025 George DiCiero Scholarship Recipient for Outstanding Leadership and Civic Commitment



The Broomfield Community Foundation proudly announces Qynton Salyer, a senior at Holy Family High School, as the 2025 recipient of the George DiCiero Scholarship. Established in honor of Broomfield’s long-serving City Manager George DiCiero, this scholarship recognizes students who embody the spirit of public service and demonstrate a clear vision for community impact. Qynton has not only cultivated a deep passion for public service and civic engagement, but has already made impressive strides as a leader and advocate at both the local and state level.

Qynton’s public service journey includes his role as Chairman of the Violence Reduction Committee within Congressman Joe Neguse’s Youth Advisory Council, where he demonstrated a strong sense of conviction and a thoughtful, data-driven approach to policy discussions. His tireless work in that role earned him the vote of his peers to become Youth Governor of Colorado. With aspirations of becoming a lobbyist focused on criminal justice reform, Qynton envisions a career where he can influence public policy, later channeling his experience into a leadership role in government—potentially even as a City Manager, following in the footsteps of Mr. DiCiero. His decision to pursue a degree in finance will strengthen his ability to impact public administration by promoting fiscally sustainable practices. A regular attendee of Broomfield City Council meetings, Qynton has already helped shape policy discussions, including efforts to lower the voting age to 16. These experiences, though at times challenging, have taught him the importance of perseverance, humility, and doing the work for the good of the community—not for the recognition.

City and County Manager Jennifer Hoffman praised Qynton in her recommendation, describing him as “one of the most intellectually curious, thoughtful, and well-rounded students” she has had the pleasure of mentoring. She noted his ability to connect with people of all ages, his confident yet humble demeanor, and his extraordinary communication skills. Whether leading conversations on complex policy or sharing advice with younger peers, Qynton is known for his optimistic presence, his integrity, and his desire to make a meaningful impact.

Scholarship Spotlight: Rowan McCune —

Jimmy Griffin Memorial Scholarship Recipient



The Jimmy Griffin Memorial Scholarship honors the memory of Jimmy Griffin, a Legacy High School junior and dedicated football player whose life was tragically cut short in a car accident in the fall of 2003. Each year, this scholarship is awarded to a student who embodies the spirit of leadership, dedication, and teamwork that defined Jimmy’s life.

This year’s recipient, Rowan McCune, exemplifies these qualities both on and off the field. A standout defensive end and team captain during the Fall 2024 football season at Legacy High School, Rowan has made a lasting impression through his leadership, discipline, and commitment to excellence.

Beyond athletics, Rowan has demonstrated an unwavering dedication to academics and service. During his senior year, he was elected as Colorado’s first U.S. Senator to attend Boys Nation in July 2024—a rare honor that reflects his leadership and civic engagement. He also served as Co-President of the Writing & History Tutoring Club in both his junior and senior years, helping fellow students succeed and fostering a love for learning.

Rowan’s long-term goals are rooted in service and innovation. He hopes to attend the United States Air Force Academy, where he plans to study electrical engineering. “Engineering has been a lifelong passion of mine,” Rowan shared. “From coding in Python to working on cars, I love tackling both hands-on and abstract challenges.”

When reflecting on who has most shaped him, Rowan speaks with deep admiration about his father. “Despite our busy schedules, he always makes time for our late-night talks—a tradition we've maintained since I was a kid,” Rowan said. “His words have taught me so much, but his actions speak even louder. No matter how late he gets home, he always finds a way to help others. His quiet selflessness has made a lasting impact on me.”

Rowan’s drive, leadership, and character make him a fitting recipient of the Jimmy Griffin Memorial Scholarship. His aspirations to serve his country while pursuing engineering are a testament to the values Jimmy stood for—and a reminder of the enduring legacy this scholarship celebrates.