American Ballet Studio Collaborates With Youth Peace and Justice Foundation To Officially Launch The Emily Finn National Scholarship

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Dec 31, 2025
2 min read

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

American Ballet Studio Collaborates With Youth Peace and Justice Foundation To Officially Launch The Emily Finn National Scholarship Fund; Issues Call for 2026 Student Applicants

BAYPORT, NY & DALLAS, TX —

December 31, 2025

The Youth Peace and Justice Foundation (formerly The Uvalde Foundation For Kids) is proud to announce the official launch of the Emily Finn National Scholarship Fund. Effective today, the Foundation has established a $24,000 three-year endowment goal to provide perpetual support for aspiring dancers, honoring the life and legacy of Emily Finn—an 18-year-old dancer, mentor, and beloved member of the American Ballet Studio whose life was tragically cut short by youth gun violence.

In collaboration with Kathleen Kairns-Scholz, Director of American Ballet Studio, the scholarship officially opens its doors to provide $8,000 in annual funding, distributed in $2,000 quarterly increments.

Comprehensive Support: Dancers and the Studio Environment

These quarterly funds are strategically allocated to provide a holistic support system:

* Student Relief: Partial tuition relief and coverage for high-velocity equipment costs, such as professional pointe shoes.

* Institutional Support: A portion of each quarterly increment is dedicated to essential school-related expenses, including facility upkeep, specialized dance flooring maintenance, and the ongoing preservation of the studio environment Emily considered her second home.

A Legacy in Motion:

Message from American Ballet Studio

“Emily was more than a dancer; she was a leader whose kindness and passion were felt by everyone who walked through our doors,” said Kathleen Kairns-Scholz.

We are looking for dancers who embody Emily’s spirit—those who are hardworking, compassionate, and ready to lead. Whether you are a current student training toward an elite level or a student in the Sayville School District with a dream to dance, we welcome you and your talent.”

The Emily Finn Performing Arts Space

The fund also supports the renovation of the 2026 renamed "Emily Finn Performing Arts Space." This outdoor stage, built by the community during the pandemic, will be fully restored with new wood and Marley flooring, serving as a permanent home for the student-led choreography workshops and fundraisers that Emily held dear.

National Advocacy: A Call for Political Commitment

The launch of this fund is a direct call to action. The Youth Peace and Justice Foundation reinforces its core principle: the demand for political commitment toward youth safety and violence prevention.

“We are not just asking for donations; we are demanding that our leaders commit to systemic change to ensure no other young artist’s potential is extinguished,” said Daniel Chapin, Founder of the Youth Peace and Justice Foundation. “Every quarterly distribution of this scholarship is a reminder that while we fund the arts and sow into our youth, our leaders must remain committed to protecting the artists themselves.”

How to Apply & Deadlines

The first application deadline for both current and prospective students for the 2026 cycle is January 15, 2026. Prospective students are required to submit a written statement, professional references, and undergo a formal interview/audition at American Ballet Studio.

Jennifer West, Media Relations

Youth Peace & Justice Foundation

Uvalde Foundation For Kids

Charity ID 88-3268749

254-499-8027

www.youthpeaceandjusticefoundation.com