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The Damian Van Fields Scholarship is a $1,000 annual award given to a graduating senior from one of our adopted schools. This scholarship celebrates students who exemplify exceptional resilience, academic excellence, and a commitment to supporting others' success throughout their high school journey.

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ABOUT DAMIAN VAN FIELDS

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Damian Van Fields was born on November 4, 1980, and passed away on June 17, 2019, at Duke University Hospital due to complications from a rare autoimmune disease called Systemic SclerodermaThis severe form of Scleroderma can damage blood vessels and internal organs, including the heart, lungs, and kidneys.

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Diagnosed with Systemic Scleroderma at just 13 years old, Damian lived with this challenging disease for 26+ years. Despite his condition, he demonstrated extraordinary resilience, a steadfast commitment to academic excellence, and a profound dedication to helping others achieve success

After graduating from Pontiac Northern High, a Title I high school in Pontiac, MI, Damian achieved the following academic and professional milestones:

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  • A.A.S. in Electronic Engineering Technology

  • B.S. in Information Systems and Cyber Security

  • CompTIA Network+ Certification

  • CompTIA Security+ Certification

  • CompTIA Advanced Security Practitioner Certification

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Although Scleroderma prevented Damian from serving in the United States military like his father, Raymond B. Fields, Sr. (a U.S. Navy Veteran), and his older brothers, Raymond B. Fields (U.S. Navy, Ret.) and Sergeant Major (Ret.) Mario P. Fields (U.S. Marine Corps), Damian’s unique skills and qualifications were invaluable. He directly supported Special Operation Forces, Marines, and Soldiers during Operation ENDURING FREEDOM.​

A WAY TO CONTRIBUTE

SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS

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School Year 2023 - 2024

Ceremony Date: May 30, 2024

Amira M. Hijazi

Innovation Early College High School

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School Year 2024 - 2025

Ceremony Date: May

Recipient: TBD

School: TBD

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