 | Kalli Jermyn was awarded a $3,000 Blavatnik Family Foundation/ThanksUSA scholarship to continue her Music Therapy studies at Berklee College of Music in Boston, Massachusetts. As the daughter of a Navy Reservist, Kalli has dealt with separation many times during her life. She often sang or played the guitar to cope with the loss she was feeling. |
| “My father is my biggest fan and when he would deploy, I felt like a piece of me was missing. The sadness I felt gave me the drive to work harder and do my best. I fully intend to make a difference in the world, through music, which has always been such an important part of my life.”  Kalli is learning how to use her musical talents to help others through their own difficult times. She volunteers as a music therapist at Project New Hope Retreats and Chelsea Soldier’s Home, and is in the process of developing a music therapy internship program at Walter Reed National Military Medical Hospital. Kelli also joined fellow Music Therapy students for a service trip to Panama.  Kalli and her friends perform as the "Panamaniacs" to raise funds for their service trip “The ThanksUSA scholarship has allowed me to continue my education and my path towards fulfilling my dream of becoming a Music Therapist. Once I become licensed, I plan on working with veterans, psychiatric patients, or children in special education. My family and I greatly appreciate your support.” |
