SSHS Grad Davoudiasl Wins Robert G. Porter Scholarship

Deana Davoudiasl, a 2011 graduate of South Side High School and salutatorian of her graduating class, is one of four highly accomplished high school graduates recently awarded a Robert G.Porter Scholarship during the American Federation of Teachers’ TEACH conference.

Every year, the AFT presents an $8,000 scholarship to each of four exceptional high school seniors who are the children of AFT members. Recipients must show outstanding service to their community and plan to pursue a career in labor, education, health or government service.

In addition to excelling academically, Davoudiasl has been extremely active outside the classroom. She was the founder and president of the GlamourGals chapter at her high school. The group addresses loneliness among the elderly by developing friendships with older women through complimentary makeovers and manicures.

Davoudiasl also was active in Homework Helpers, a group of high school students who tutor children in the elementary grades. As a member of her school’s Compact Team—a group of students, teachers, administrators and parents who work to solve problems at South Side High — she helped with an effort last year to place a school bond issue on the ballot. She was also an active member of the RVC Youth Council.

Davoudiasl plans to attend Princeton University. She will study biology and international health, with a long-term goal of becoming a physician. Davoudiasl’s mother, Catherine Budesa, is a member of the United Federation of Teachers and teaches in New York City.

The Robert G. Porter Scholars Program is named in honor of the late AFT secretary-treasurer, who served for more than 30 years. Porter was known for his commitment to improving the quality of public education and public service.

The TEACH (Together Educating America’s Children) conference brings together AFT members from across the country for workshops, discussions and speakers addressing the issues and changes confronting U.S. educators.