The National Guard Association of Connecticut (NGACT) is proud to announce the selection of five exceptional individuals as recipients of this year’s NGACT Scholarships. These awards, each valued at $1,000, are a testament to the hard work, leadership, and service-minded values that reflect the spirit of the Connecticut National Guard.
From aspiring healthcare professionals to emerging leaders in literature and athletics, this year’s recipients represent the future, and NGACT is honored to support their educational journeys.
Meet the 2025 NGACT Scholarship Recipients
Aiden Sullivan
Aiden Sullivan has proven himself to be a student of integrity, focus, and ambition. His commitment to excellence—both inside the classroom and within his community—stood out to the scholarship committee. Aiden reflects the values of leadership and perseverance that NGACT strives to uplift. We are proud to support Aiden’s future and know he will make a positive impact in his chosen path.
Tyler Deme
As a four-year cross-country athlete and team captain at Mark T. Sheehan High School, Tyler Deme has shown what it means to lead by example. His dedication to personal growth, strategic thinking, and helping teammates thrive makes him a standout not only as an athlete but as a mentor and role model. NGACT is honored to support Tyler as he continues his academic and leadership journey.
Riley Baldoni
Riley Baldoni brings an inspiring combination of academic excellence, compassion, and purpose to everything she does. Her dream of becoming a dentist is rooted in a desire to care for others—something she already demonstrates through her work in healthcare offices and her involvement in pre-dental programs. Riley’s drive, warmth, and service mindset represent the best of her generation, and NGACT is proud to invest in her future.
Ainsley Tolland
Creative, articulate, and intellectually curious, Ainsley Tolland stood out through her excellence in literature and writing at Sacred Heart University. Ainsley’s thoughtful engagement in classroom discussions and leadership in collaborative projects reflect her love of learning and natural ability to connect with others. Her academic promise and personal character embody the kind of leadership NGACT is proud to champion.
Ayron Hernandez-Reyes
Ayron Hernandez-Reyes exemplifies the values of service, resilience, and upward mobility. Through his academic achievements and dedication to personal growth, Ayron has already begun building a life of meaning and purpose. His drive to succeed while contributing to his community captured the attention of the scholarship committee. NGACT is proud to support Ayron’s journey and confident he will make a lasting impact wherever he goes.
Investing in the Next Generation
“These scholarships are more than financial support, they’re an investment in the next generation of leaders, thinkers, and community builders,” said the NGACT Scholarship Committee. “Each recipient has shown outstanding commitment to their goals and to making a difference.”
NGACT proudly supports Guard members, their families, and the broader Connecticut community through initiatives like the scholarship program. These awards exemplify NGACT’s ongoing mission to empower those connected to the Guard with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Learn More & Apply
The NGACT Scholarship Program is open to students connected to the Connecticut National Guard and is just one of many ways NGACT continues to give back to its members.
For more information on future scholarship opportunities, visit: www.ngact.org