Newsroom

Tabb High Senior Awarded Prestigious Jefferson Scholarship to UVA

The York County School Division congratulates Tabb High School senior Malini Dharni for earning one of the most highly selective merit scholarships in the nation. The Jefferson Scholars Foundation at the University of Virginia selected Malini as one of 36 recipients of the Jefferson Scholarship.

To be named a Scholar, students take part in a rigorous, highly competitive, multi-stage selection process. Schools across the country nominated more than 2,500 students this year, with nearly 150 advancing to the final round of interviews. Jefferson Scholars are chosen for their exceptional promise in leadership, scholarship, and citizenship and Malini has demonstrated these qualities throughout her high school career.

The Tabb High School Class of 2025 Salutatorian, Malini also attends the Governor’s School for Science and Technology. She has actively pursued her passion for biotechnology by attending Virginia’s highly competitive Summer Residential Governor’s School and participating in mentorship with the Jefferson Labs research facility. Malini also participated in the International Science and Engineering Fair in California and had her research recognized by university professors.

In addition to her academic excellence, Malini is a student leader dedicated to making a difference. She founded the Operation Smile Club at Tabb High School, which supports cleft palate surgeries for children around the world in partnership with hospitals and global organizations. She is also an active leader in Model UN and the Medical Club, demonstrating a strong commitment to service and global citizenship.

Malini will join a cohort of 153 Scholars currently funded by the Foundation at UVA, as well as a community of more than 1,000 Scholar alumni. In addition to receiving the full cost of attending the University for four years, Jefferson Scholars benefit from a number of enrichment programs sponsored by the Foundation, including travel abroad, career networking activities, and a leadership speaker series.

Malini’s commitment to excellence and leadership embodies our vision of Future Ready Graduates who are equipped with the skills, knowledge, and character to succeed in college, career, and life.