About Zachary

Zach’s Story

Zachary grew up in Middletown, DE and graduated from Appoquinimink High School.  He earned a BS honors degree in biochemistry at the University of Delaware before enrolling at Vanderbilt University to pursue an MD with a PhD in molecular pathology and immunology with the goal of becoming a pediatric physician scientist. Throughout his life, he earned awards, won scholarships, held leadership positions, and published significant medical research.  However, Zach is truly admired and remembered for his kindness, compassion, generosity, humility, and his unrelenting desire to make a positive impact on the world.

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As an enthusiastic, inquisitive boy, he was known for his big smile and even bigger dimples. He loved the beach, music, books and all things Harry Potter.  He was happiest spending time with family and cooking for friends.  His smile and sense of humour would light up a room. When he was in high school, Zach volunteered at a camp for children with Down syndrome and their siblings. This experience led him to seek other opportunities to serve, such as coaching with Special Olympics and interning at A.I. duPont Children's Hospital, Christiana Care, and Children's Hospital of Philadelphia.  He volunteered in his church's children ministry; went on mission trips to help underprivileged children, raised money for children's cancer research, tutored younger students in math and science, and even formed his own saxophone ensemble to perform at community events.

 It was through these contributions to community service that Zach developed important relationships with children and their families that would determine his life's purpose to help them. While unfortunately, Zach will not personally live out his full dream of changing the world, his impact was far-reaching and meaningful. He did make the world a better place through his giving heart and immense talent.  And it is the hope and focus of this foundation to continue his life's work to improve and enhance the lives of others.