Max Harper’s death last September shook Staples High School, and the rest of the town.
In its aftermath, his many friends and admirers searched for a way to honor the strong-spirited senior. They did not want his bright light to fade.
Max’s father Marcus found great support from the community, and his colleagues at The Trade Desk in New York.
Together, they devised a way to ensure that Max’s legacy lives on for decades.
Max Harper
To support Marcus and his family, and help other students like Max pursue their dreams, Marcus’ co-workers established an endowed scholarship award through Staples Tuition Grants.
The scholarship has an apt name: The Max Harper – Live Life to the Max Award.
Max certainly did that. Every day he found joy, kindness and meaning in life. His friends and family remember his entrepreneurial spirit, big ideas and new ventures.
With over $50,000 already raised from 150 donations, the annual grant of $2,500 to qualifying students will ensure that Max’s influence continues to inspire others to “live life to the max.”
The Staples Tuition Grants Max Harper – Live Life to the Max Award is open to Staples seniors and graduates pursuing higher education (including vocational schools) who have ADD or ADHD, and demonstrate financial need.
Diagnosed at a young age with ADHD, Max and his family faced significant obstacles finding the right resources. Eventually they discovered a program that provided mentoring, coaching and life skills development, while also offering support for parents.
Building on that inspiration, a broader Live Life to the Max Foundation has been established to support students and families navigating ADD/ADHD.
In partnership with the town of Westport, the foundation is launching a pilot program in early spring. It will focus first on high school junior and senior boys. After the pilot, girls will be included.
Inspired by the program the Harper family discovered, the initiative will provide mentoring, life skills coaching and parental support. After the pilot, it will expand to include girls.
The Live Life To The Max Foundation will be guided by a junior board of students with ADD/ADHD, family members and young educators.
Westport’s Department of Human Services will release more information soon. Email director Elaine Daignault (edaignault@westportct.gov) to express interest or get additional details.
Max was known for his manners, always saying “please,” “thank you” and “I appreciate you.” In his honor, Staples Tuition Grants says, “Please consider supporting this scholarship. Thank you for helping Max’s light continue to shine. And we appreciate you for keeping his memory alive.”
(For information about the Staples Tuition Grants scholarship or to make a donation to the Max Harper Live Life to the Max award, click here. For information about Staples Tuition Grants in general, click here.)
Flowers at Compo Beach, after Max Harper’s memorial service. (Photo/Louise Pepin)
