Archbishop Stepinac High School is proud to announce that Joel Kuadugah ’26 of Yonkers, pictured above, has been accepted to The Fu Foundation School of Engineering & Applied Science, Class of 2030, at Columbia University, through the highly competitive QuestBridge National College Match program.
Joel applied to Columbia University through QuestBridge, a nationally recognized organization that connects high-achieving students from low-income backgrounds with top colleges and universities. QuestBridge is dedicated to expanding access to higher education regardless of race, geography, or academic interest. In 2025, the QuestBridge National College Match connected 2,550 high school seniors with full scholarships to leading colleges and universities across the country.
Through this match, Joel has earned a comprehensive four-year scholarship to Columbia University that covers tuition, housing, meals, books, and other educational expenses, ensuring he can fully focus on his academic pursuits in engineering without financial burden.
Reflecting on the moment he learned he had been matched with Columbia, Joel shared that the achievement was made possible by the support of those around him. “I am deeply grateful to everyone who has helped me along my path: my family, whose sacrifices and encouragement made this possible; my friends, who kept me grounded; the teachers and mentors who enabled me to aim high; and all the programs and communities that opened doors for me and expanded my perspective,” Joel said. “This milestone reflects all of your support.”
At Stepinac High School, Joel has excelled academically and as a leader within the school community. He is a member of the Susan & Daniel P. Mahoney ’67 Engineering Honors Academy and the Latin National Honor Society and Math National Honor Society. Joel is also actively involved in Classroom Crusaders, Rotary Club, Coding Club, and the Business Ventures Club.
Joel’s guidance counselor, Maria Buda, emphasized the significance of his accomplishment and the dedication behind it. She noted that Joel’s success is a reflection of his perseverance, intellectual curiosity, and commitment to excellence, adding that his acceptance to Columbia through QuestBridge highlights both his academic strength and his determination to take full advantage of every opportunity presented to him.
Archbishop Stepinac High School congratulates Joel Kuadugah ’26 on this outstanding achievement and looks forward to celebrating his continued success as he prepares to begin his studies at Columbia University.
