The 25th Annual Scholarship Breakfast for ACE Mentor Program of Greater Philadelphia was more than a milestone celebration — it was a powerful reflection of the lives, careers, and futures shaped through mentorship over the past quarter century. Drawing together students, mentors, sponsors, industry leaders, alumni, and supporters from across the architecture, construction, and engineering community, the event celebrated not only ACE Greater Philadelphia’s legacy, but the incredible momentum driving its future.
Hosted by Executive Director Breanna Sheeler, the morning opened with a heartfelt reflection on ACE Greater Philadelphia’s journey over the last 25 years. Since its founding, the affiliate has remained steadfast in its mission to mentor high school students pursuing careers in architecture, construction, and engineering through hands-on learning, project experiences, industry exposure, and meaningful mentor relationships.
Over the years, ACE Greater Philadelphia has expanded its reach tremendously — serving more than 3,000 students, engaging over 1,000 volunteers and mentors, and awarding more than $1.1 million in scholarships throughout the region.
The event served as both a celebration of the past and a call to action for the future, emphasizing the importance of mentorship, opportunity, and connection in shaping the next generation of industry leaders.
One of the morning’s most meaningful moments was the presentation of the 25th Anniversary Founder Award to Anthony Naccarato, recognizing his longstanding leadership, vision, and contributions to ACE Greater Philadelphia since its inception. The award was presented by Diana Edenshink, who reflected on the early years of the affiliate and the extraordinary impact ACE has had throughout the region.
The breakfast also recognized landmark projects that exemplify innovation, community impact, and design excellence within Philadelphia’s built environment:
Representatives from firms including Gilbane Building Company, Turner Construction Company, and WRT Design shared remarks highlighting the importance of thoughtful design, preservation, and community-focused development in shaping Philadelphia’s future.
The morning also honored the dedicated volunteers who form the foundation of the ACE experience. The 2026 Outstanding Mentor of the Year Award was presented to Jennifer Leister in recognition of her exceptional leadership and commitment to students through the Upper Montgomery Joint Authority ACE team.
ACE highlighted the tremendous collective efforts of the entire Upper Montgomery Joint Authority mentoring team, whose programming, site tours, guest speakers, and hands-on experiences have created a thriving suburban ACE presence in the Pennsburg area and inspired students to return year after year.
At the heart of the breakfast was the recognition of this year’s scholarship recipients — talented, driven students preparing to continue their education and pursue careers within the A/E/C industries. ACE alumni Khy Pullins and Emani Coleman shared their personal experiences with the program and reflected on the lasting impact ACE mentorship has had on their academic and professional journeys.
This year, ACE Greater Philadelphia awarded scholarships to 12 deserving students, including named scholarships sponsored by long-time industry partners and supporters.
Scholarship recipients included:
Jael Alicea — O’Donnell & Naccarato Scholarship
Ashley Avalos — Carpenter’s Company Scholarship
Maya Boyer Mayes — Gilbane Scholarship
Julia Ross — GBCA Scholarship
Albin Saliaj — Michael & Marybeth Beck Scholarship
Amaya Henderson — Lorraine & Bernon Chamberlin Scholarship
Kimberly Velasquez
Nicholas Cressman
Peter Thomas
Isaiah McCall
Tucker Ruch
Kadidja Traore
Their achievements serve as a powerful reminder of the incredible talent emerging through the ACE program and the importance of continued investment in mentorship and educational opportunity.
The success of ACE Greater Philadelphia would not be possible without the generous support of sponsors, volunteers, and partner organizations throughout the region. During the event, Board Chair Alex Chan thanked the many organizations whose contributions help fund ACE programming, mentorship initiatives, and scholarships.
From annual sponsors and scholarship partners to breakfast sponsors and volunteers, the collective support represented in the room demonstrated the A/E/C industry’s shared commitment to opening doors for future generations.
As the event concluded, attendees were reminded that ACE is ultimately about connection — the powerful moments when students begin to envision themselves in industries they may have never imagined before, guided by professionals willing to invest their time, experience, and encouragement.
After 25 years, ACE Greater Philadelphia continues to prove that mentorship changes lives — and the next chapter is only just beginning.
