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Salisbury High School Senior Awarded Full-Tuition Scholarship to Cedar Crest College

Allentown, PA (03/20/2026) — Salisbury High School senior Maddie Dilliard has been awarded Cedar Crest College's prestigious Trailblazer Award, a four-year, full-tuition scholarship recognizing outstanding academic achievement, leadership, and community engagement.

Dilliard received the surprise announcement on Thursday, March 19, during a special presentation held on Salisbury High School's campus. Cedar Crest College President Elizabeth M. Meade, members of the admissions team, and the college's mascot, Franki the Falcon, joined school officials and family to celebrate the momentous occasion with flowers, balloons, and the official scholarship presentation.

"I am extremely excited and very honored about this," said Dilliard. "I am shocked!"

At Cedar Crest College, Dilliard plans to major in forensic science and minor in criminal justice. She expressed enthusiasm about the college's recently opened Expert Witness Training Center, which will support her academic and career goals.

In addition to her academic accomplishments, Dilliard has demonstrated a strong commitment to leadership and service. She serves as president of the Key Club, participates in the Suicide Prevention Awareness Club, tutors multiple days each week, and has been an active member of Girl Scouts for 11 years. She is currently working toward earning the Girl Scout Gold Award, the highest honor in Girl Scouting.

"Maddie Dilliard exemplifies what it means to be a Trailblazer-academically accomplished, deeply engaged, and driven to make a difference," said President Meade. "We are proud to recognize her with four years of tuition through this scholarship."

As she prepares to begin her college career, Dilliard embodies the spirit of the Trailblazer Award-committed to academic excellence, service, and making a meaningful impact in her community and beyond.

About Cedar Crest College

Cedar Crest College has been empowering women to smash glass ceilings and achieve their educational goals since 1867. Today, the College continues to open the doors to opportunities for its diverse student body, both in the undergraduate women's college and in the co-ed School of Adult and Graduate Education. Located in Allentown, Pa., Cedar Crest is ranked by U.S. News & World Report's 2025-2026 Best College Rankings as #16 in Social Mobility and is among the top 100 colleges and universities in the region.

Media Attachments

President Elizabeth M. Meade with Maddie Dilliard

Maddie stands between the Salisbury High School and Cedar Crest College falcon mascots.

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