The Goddard School, early childhood education provider, announced Andrew Chen as the recipient of the 2026 Anthony A. Martino Memorial Scholarship. This $10,000 scholarship is awarded annually to a graduating high school senior who successfully completed a Goddard School pre- k or kindergarten program. The recipient must demonstrate the work ethic and perseverance that exemplified Anthony A. Martino, the founder of The Goddard School franchise system, and his commitment to his career, family and community.
Raised in Frederick, Chen is a pre-k graduate of The Goddard School of Urbana, Maryland. “My time at The Goddard School encouraged me to explore ideas, think independently and approach learning in a hands-on way,” said Chen. “Those early experiences showed me that education can be engaging and interactive, which later inspired my interest in educational game design. By combining technology and creativity, I hope to make complex issues like sustainability more accessible and motivates people to take action.”
Chen, who will attend the University of Pennsylvania this fall, is a nationally recognized educational game designer who believes learning should be both informative and immersive. He was named the 2025 Made with Unity Award International Champion at the Games for Change Student Challenge for original games that translate sustainability concepts into engaging educational experiences. Through game design, Chen helps audiences better understand real-world challenges and inspire action. His commitment to impact also extends to environmental advocacy, including his selection as one of four students statewide to serve on the Maryland Youth Leadership Council of the Sierra Club.
“It’s incredibly rewarding to see Andrew’s journey come full circle from his early years in our pre-k classroom to his achievements as an innovative and attentive student,” said Jill Pelicano, owner of The Goddard School of Urbana. “We strive to create an environment where children are encouraged to ask questions, explore ideas, develop problem-solving skills and discover how learning connects to the world around them. Andrew’s success is a powerful example of how a strong start can shape future passions, and we’re proud to have been part of his educational foundation.”
Chen is a 2026 graduate of Urbana High School. In addition to designing educational games, he served as Vice President of Future Business Leaders of America, Urbana High School chapter, and earned the President’s Volunteer Service Award, a national honor recognizing sustained commitment to community service and civic engagement, reflecting his dedication to using his time and talents to make a positive impact beyond the classroom.
For more information about the Goddard School and the Anthony A. Martino Memorial Scholarship, please visit GoddardSchool.com.
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