Daniel Moshi Scholarship
Leyden High School District 212 and The Unity In Community Foundation have partnered to create the Daniel Moshi Memorial Scholarship. This scholarship honors Daniel Moshi, a Leyden student, who passed away suddenly in October, and will be given to a Leyden student who is committed to pursuing a four-year degree in the fine arts.
Daniel was a senior at West Leyden and deeply involved in the performing arts community. He grew up in a musical household and showed an interest in music as soon as he was old enough to hold a spoon in his hand and strike the dining room chairs like a drummer in a band. It wasn’t until he watched a live performance of the musical Matilda, that he felt a calling. According to Daniel, his first experience in theatre was transformative as he was finally able to express himself and not just be accepted for his differences but celebrated for them.
During his time at Leyden, Daniel was an extremely involved student who was in almost every available choir and performed in almost every theatrical production since his freshman year. He was honored by many recognitions including Student of the Month, a Fern Award, was selected for numerous prestigious All-State performances in both choir and musical theatre.
This fall, Daniel learned he was accepted into two universities, where he planned on continuing to pursue his passion for the performing arts.
“Daniel was the heartbeat of the Fine Arts at Leyden. He is missed more than anyone could imagine,” said Leyden’s Choir Director Stacy Cunningham.“Daniel's time on earth was far too short, but his legacy will continue to live on through this beautiful tribute scholarship which will be awarded to one graduating senior who will attend a four-year university studying Music, Theater or Musical Theater. ”
The Unity in Community organization will administer the scholarship and is currently seeking monetary donations to help fund the opportunity for years to come. To donate to the scholarship, please visit www.theunityincommunity.org and select the homepage banner: “Donate to the Daniel Moshi 2023 Music Scholarship Fund,” or visit the direct link: bit.ly/3UZkh8H.
To apply students should visit www.tinyurl.com/leydenscholarships.
Deadline to apply is 2/17 at 10pm.
“Daniel was a star human on and off the stage as he truly was a friend to everyone he met,” said Fine Arts Coordinator Adrianne Nix. “He had the brightest smile, the best laugh and a drive and determination that would have made him a big star in this world. His commitment to our theatre and music programs as well as the larger Leyden community illustrated a drive and determination well beyond his years.” She continued, “His presence in our theatre was always the highlight of the show because he was an absolute joy to watch every time he performed. From Barfee's magic foot in Spelling Bee to greedy Mr. Mushnik in Little Shop, Daniel brought vibrant life to every character he played on the Leyden stage. As we move forward and the show(s) go on Leyden will always save a seat for him in the first row.”