December 15, 2025

The Sanilac County Community Foundation is pleased to announce Manuela Conte as the 2025 recipient of the Joshua Ross Memorial Scholarship.

Manuela Conte, daughter of Salvatore and Zahara Conte, graduated from Deckerville High School, where she earned a 3.9 GPA. During high school, she participated in Student Council and National Honor Society, completing over 250 hours of community service, including donating blood and advocating for mental health awareness and supporting those without a voice. Manuela participated in honors bands, Solo and Ensemble, Academic Games, Mock Trial, and volleyball. She was involved in several law and CSI programs, completing an internship with a law firm, and also attended the Sanilac Career Center through the culinary program, where she participated in numerous catering and ProStart events. Manuela is attending the University of Michigan, pursuing a double major in Political Science and Psychology. She aspires to earn her Juris Doctor degree and pursue a career as a prosecuting attorney, advocating for those without a voice.

The Joshua Ross Memorial Scholarship was established in 1998 in memory of Joshua Ross, a Brown City High School senior, who was very active and involved in his community. This scholarship is awarded to a student that reflects the character and interests of Josh.

This scholarship is administered through the Sanilac County Community Foundation (SCCF). For more information on scholarship opportunities, visit www.SanilacFoundation.org or contact the Community Foundation office at 810-648-3634.

For Good. For Ever.