The Needham Garden Club (NGC) has awarded its 2026 scholarship to Katie Burns, recognizing her academic achievement, commitment to environmental stewardship and enthusiasm for learning.
According to the Garden Club, Burns stood out among a strong field of applicants for her genuine passion for education. In her scholarship application, she explained that throughout high school she chose challenging courses over easier classes that might have resulted in a higher grade point average because she valued learning and intellectual growth. The Garden Club said her commitment to expanding her knowledge reflected the organization's mission of fostering education.
This fall, Burns will attend Boston College, where she plans to study Environmental Science.
Burns demonstrated her interest in environmental issues throughout her four years at Needham High School as a member of the Environmental Action Team. As co-president during her senior year, she helped plan and implement a native pollinator garden on the school campus using grant funding provided by the Needham Garden Club.
In addition to her environmental work, Burns participated on the dance team and the cross-country and track teams. During the summer, she also served as a high school intern at the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History, where she volunteered in the Butterfly House and the Science Rocks! children's room.
The Needham Garden Club congratulated Burns on receiving the scholarship and wished her success as she begins her college career.
