Keira Schiffelbein, daughter of Ryan Schiffelbein, USW Local 307, Goodyear-Topeka
At just 22, Keira has earned an Associate's in Radiologic Technology, a Bachelor's in Diagnostic Medical Imaging, and a Certificate in Cardiac Ultrasound from Washburn University — and she'll be the first to tell you that her drive didn't come from nowhere. "My dad has always been the best example of putting in hard work and effort to accomplish your dreams, and he has always pushed me to do the same," Keira says of her father, Ryan, who works at USW Local 307 at the Goodyear plant in Topeka, Kansas. That influence shows. After a personal experience with cardiac imaging at age 10 inspired her to pursue diagnostic medicine, Keira never looked back. Today she works as both an X-ray Technologist and Cardiac Sonographer at Stormont Vail Hospital and Heart Center — living proof that the right support, and the right work ethic, can turn a childhood dream into a career. We are thrilled to recognize her with this scholarship.
Maksim Damljanovic, son of Milan Damljanovic, USW Local 979, Cleveland Cliffs-Cleveland
Maksim is a theologian, musician, and proud son of a Steelworker. Currently pursuing his degree in Theology at the Antiochian House of Studies, Maksim hopes one day to become a professor and pass on what he has worked so hard to learn. His love of music runs just as deep — he has played violin and guitar, studied Byzantine chant, and spent seven years singing with the Cleveland Orchestra Choruses. But perhaps nothing shapes him more than where he comes from. "I'm proud to be the son of a Steelworker," he says of his father, Milan, a member at USW Local 979, "because steel built the backbone of America, and so did the people who make it. As we mark 250 years of American history, that sense of pride and purpose comes through in everything my dad does.”
Ashley Fish, daughter of Joseph Fish, USW Local 1011, Cleveland Cliffs-Indiana Harbor West
Meet Ashley Fish, the proud daughter of a 31-year Steelworker. "I admire his commitment and I hope to emulate this in my profession," she says of her dad, Joseph, a member at USW Local 1011 — and that dedication is already on full display. This fall, Ashley enters her junior year of nursing at Purdue University Northwest, with her sights set on labor and delivery, drawn by the profound privilege of witnessing new life enter the world. She knows firsthand what a Steelworker's commitment provides — financial security, community, and a blueprint for what it looks like to show up and give your best every single day. We are proud to support her as she carries that legacy forward.
Hailey Gray, daughter of Michael Gray, USW Local 1557, U.S. Steel- Clairton
Hailey Gray gets her determination from being the daughter of a Steelworker. "My dad (Michael) has shown me the value of dedication, teamwork, and a strong work ethic," Hailey says. She is attending her third year of pharmacy school this fall at West Virginia. Prior to attending pharmacy school Hailey earned her bachelor's degree in Biochemistry which sparked her interest in the Pharmaceutical Industry. She is currently interested in pharmaceutical research that could involve evaluating the safety and effectiveness of a new drug compared to an existing treatment for disease. Her dad has inspired her to work hard in school and to achieve her goals.
Savannah Grant, daughter of Joshua Grant, USW Local 6103, U.S. Steel - Midwest
Savannah credits her father, Joshua, with teaching her two important life skills: staying calm under pressure and carefully considering all perspectives before making a decision. As a strong role model, he has consistently demonstrated the value of hard work, responsibility, and perseverance. Inspired by his example, Savannah is pursuing a degree in Biology with a concentration in Zoology at Ball State University. Her goal is to become a zoologist at a reputable zoo or pursue another career that allows her to work closely with a variety of animals each day, particularly reptiles. Savannah recognizes that achieving her goals will require dedication and determination, qualities she has learned from her father, whom she continues to admire for his commitment to always getting the job done and doing it well.
About the Tino Fulimeni Memorial Scholarship
Tino Fulimeni was a lifelong Steelworker who rose to Special Assistant to former USW President George Becker. Tino was a great supporter of the Career Development Program. He believed very strongly in education for Steelworkers and the value of the learning process. This ICD scholarship is a tribute to Tino and all he stood for and fought for. He would be proud that we are giving money in his name to young deserving children and grandchildren of Steelworkers to support their education.
To date, the Tino Fulimeni Memorial Scholarship Fund has awarded 166 scholarships in the amount of $154,800.
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