The Brandywine Health Foundation has awarded its 2021 Harry Lewis Jr. Scholarship to Coatesville resident Zaria Watson.

The award honors students who, like Lewis, have demonstrated great leadership and devotion to improving the quality of life in the Greater Coatesville area.

“Harry Lewis Jr. was a pioneer in Pennsylvania politics and tireless advocate for Chester County and Coatesville,” said Vanessa Briggs, CEO of the Brandywine Health Foundation. “This year’s recipient of the scholarship named in his honor exhibits the same passion for advancing the interests of the citizens of Coatesville.”

Watson is a graduate of Coatesville Cyber Academy, where she was an honor roll student. She was also a three-year member of the Coatesville track team, where she was known for her resilience and Coatesville pride. She plans to attend Lincoln University in the fall to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Nursing. After college, her goal is to return to the Coatesville area to assist and support community members through patient education, the promotion of healthy practices, patient treatment, and volunteering.

The Harry Lewis Jr. Scholarship was established by the Brandywine Health Foundation to honor the man who served the public for more than 56 years. Lewis worked as a physical education teacher, a special education teacher, and an assistant principal before he eventually became the principal at Coatesville Area High School.

Following his tenure in the school district, he was elected to serve the 74th Legislative District in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives from 2014 until his retirement in 2018. His time in office was dedicated to the residents of Chester County.

Watson’s goal of supporting her community through nursing demonstrates a similar dedication to the service of Greater Coatesville.

Learn more about the Brandywine Health Foundation.