TRCF’s 2025 Stellar Scholar: Analise Ciannilli
At The Ruth Cheatham Foundation, we are proud to recognize young survivors who not only overcome immense challenges but also turn those trials into purpose-driven lives. Our 2025 Stellar Scholar, Analise Ciannilli, embodies the very essence of resilience, compassion, and hope.
Diagnosed with neuroblastoma at just three years old, Analise faced a grueling medical journey that included chemotherapy, multiple surgeries, radiation, and a stem cell transplant—all before she even started kindergarten. Though her cancer is long behind her, Analise says:
“Cancer has never left my life, and never will.”
Instead of letting her past define her, Analise chose to let it inspire her. She is pursuing a Master’s Degree in Physician Assistant Studies at Marywood University, a path she was drawn to through her early exposure to healthcare and the kindness of the medical professionals who cared for her.
“Becoming a Physician Associate is an aspiration that I am eager and determined to accomplish. My lifelong goal has been to give back to society and to help others heal and relieve illness and injury gracefully just as I was shown from the beginning of my life.”
Graduate school is intense. Analise is currently taking up to 21 credits per semester and, like many students in demanding healthcare programs, she’s unable to work due to the rigorous schedule. The financial strain is an everyday obstacle, but her determination never wavers.
“I have made a lot of sacrifices personally and financially to have this opportunity to become a healthcare provider—all worth it!”
The Ruth Cheatham Foundation is honored to be a part of her journey. Our scholarship helped Analise purchase school materials and cover essential living expenses, offering her peace of mind so she can focus on her studies and her dream of helping others.
Beyond academics, Analise is deeply involved in her community. She has volunteered at a special needs children’s carnival, helped clean up local parks, participated in food drives and health fairs, and assisted in community health screenings for blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol. Analise also helped adopt a family for Christmas, wrapping and delivering gifts. She’s a proud student member of both the American Association of Physician Assistants and the New Jersey Society of Physician Assistants.
In May 2024, Analise received her white coat, marking the beginning of her clinical rotations and the next step toward becoming a practicing healthcare professional.
“I am so excited to begin the next part of my journey and being able to see my classroom knowledge come to life in the field working with patients,”
Analise is proof that the human spirit can rise above hardship, not just to survive—but to lead, heal, and give back. She is a shining light in the TRCF family, and we are proud to call her our 2025 Stellar Scholar.
On behalf of everyone at The Ruth Cheatham Foundation: Congratulations, Analise!
We're proud to support your journey and inspired by the future you're building. Keep on thriving!
Watch Analise’s Stellar Scholar submission video:
