Stevenson School senior Chanel Estrada has been awarded a full-ride scholarship to Columbia University through the highly competitive QuestBridge National College Match Scholarship, marking another milestone in the school’s continued commitment to expanding access to top-tier higher education.
Estrada is among approximately 2,600 students nationwide selected from a pool of more than 25,000 applicants. She joins fellow Stevenson alumni Michelle Henaku ’25 and Kayla Russell ’23—both QuestBridge scholars who also matched with Columbia University—further strengthening Stevenson’s growing legacy within the program.
“Chanel’s achievement is a testament to her incredible hard work, curiosity, and dedication,” said Dr. Dan Griffiths, President of Stevenson School. “At Stevenson, we are deeply committed to ensuring all students have access to an education that sets them up for lifelong success. Chanel embraced every opportunity here—as a scholar, leader, and advocate—and we are thrilled to see her continue her journey at Columbia.”
A Community of Support
Estrada came to Stevenson through the Daniel Murphy Scholarship Fund, which supports high-achieving students from the Chicago area. Throughout her time at Stevenson, she benefited from a strong network of mentors and alumni. She interned in the office of Julia Ramirez ’09, a Stevenson alum and fellow Daniel Murphy scholar who now serves as an elected official in Chicago.
On campus, Estrada credits her advisor, Johanna Kroenlein, with providing steadfast guidance. “She saw me at my worst and was there to help guide me through,” Estrada said. In the classroom, she found inspiration in AP U.S. History with Mr. Bates ’99. “He’s the best teacher I’ve ever had. He teaches with so much enthusiasm and makes history come alive.”
A Record of Excellence
Over the past five years, eight Stevenson students have applied to QuestBridge, with three receiving full scholarships—all matched with Columbia University. Stevenson’s College Center works closely with students and families beginning in junior year to identify prospective applicants and support them through the rigorous application process.
A deeply engaged member of the Stevenson community, Estrada has served as a Prefect, Residential Activity Coordinator, DEI Leader, Latinx Student Union Leader, and Senior Forum member. She is Vice President of the Interact Club, co-leads Film Society, and participates in the Stevenson Philanthropy Project. Beyond campus, she spent a month in Alaska through the Student Diplomacy Corps Program and worked two summers at Chicago’s Lincoln Park Zoo, educating youth about wildlife and conservation.
When she arrives at Columbia University next fall, Estrada plans to study psychology and looks forward to reconnecting with fellow Stevenson QuestBridge scholars on campus.
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