Newtown High School senior Claire DiNoto is on a mission to cap off her high school career with a remarkable fundraiser aimed at helping her peers. As the president and founder of the NHS College Application Prep — or CAP — Club, Claire has initiated a movement that is both meaningful and impactful, providing scholarships to students with significant non-academic responsibilities.
Established two years ago this month, the CAP Club stands out as the first student-run scholarship foundation at Newtown High School. Claire shared the club’s inception journey on March 2, detailing how the organization has evolved into a beacon of support for students pursuing higher education.
Last year, the club organized various fundraising events, from bake sales to raffles, successfully raising $1,000 toward its inaugural scholarship. This year, Claire aims to significantly exceed that amount.
“This year we’re hoping to offer two $2,500 scholarships,” she said, enthusiastically discussing the Second Annual Behind the Scenes Scholarship. Scheduled for May 17, the event will feature a silent art auction, for which Claire has already secured a location and the first piece of art, along with a generous donation of hors d’oeuvres. The next step is connecting with artists willing to contribute their works for the cause.
The inspiration for these scholarships comes from Claire’s mother, who immigrated from Cambodia at the age of seven. During their conversation, Claire reflected on her family’s struggles and experiences. “Her older siblings worked after school to help support the family,” she explained. While many local scholarships tend to emphasize academics or athletics, Claire’s project focuses on students who juggle familial responsibilities, just like her mother’s siblings did.
In alignment with this mission, the NHS CAP scholarship application process is uniquely designed. It intentionally omits a student’s GPA and extracurricular activities, asking instead for a revelation of responsibilities they’ve undertaken for their family or community.
“We want applicants to highlight initiatives they’ve taken,” she emphasized. Interestingly, Claire will not participate in this year’s scholarship selection, delegating that responsibility to the juniors in the club. While members can apply, she has decided to refrain from applying for her own creation.
Building a Network and Community Connections
Claire holds a prominent position in her school beyond the CAP Club, serving as co-president of Newtown High School’s National Honor Society (NHS). This role has opened up additional avenues for collaboration. Last October, NHS members volunteered for Designer Bag Bingo, an event raising funds for the Friends of Newtown Community Center. One of the event’s co-chairs was Meghan Rice, with whom Claire reconnected later at another gathering.
“Her event was so successful, so when I saw her I asked if she’d mind me asking a few questions, and it just took off,” Claire recalled. Meghan has proven instrumental in expanding her network in Newtown, helping her connect with community members willing to support the fundraiser.
Thanks to this networking, Claire has secured the first artwork donation for the 2026 Behind the Scenes Scholarship from local artist Kelly M. Urso. Kelly noted, “Meghan knew I did artwork, and she connected me with Claire.”
Kelly, who has lived in Newtown for over 25 years, creates various works including watercolors, barn quilts, and pottery. Notably, she was also The Newtown Bee’s holiday cover artist in 2025, showcasing a beautiful watercolor of The Budd House, a landmark in town. This picturesque barn, set on her family’s property and surrounded by blooming gardens, will serve as the venue for the May silent auction.
“My mom has that big barn and has always liked entertaining,” Kelly explained, indicating her excitement about participating. Her willingness to contribute art reflects the community spirit Claire aims to harness through the fundraiser, with the hope of gathering a diverse selection of at least 25 original artworks.
To spread awareness, Art & Frame has committed to assisting with promotional efforts, and Claire is collaborating with the Society of Creative Arts of Newtown for additional outreach. Each piece is expected to be valued at a minimum of $250, covering a range of artistic expressions including painting, photography, and sculptures.
The culinary offerings for the event will be generously provided by Mexcla, a local establishment. Claire found a personal connection with the owner, Mario Perez, whose own family journey resonates with her story. “I think that was great,” she remarked, appreciating the shared experiences they hold.
With a target of 100 attendees for the fundraiser, the event promises not just to be a gallery of art but an enjoyable community gathering featuring live music and refreshments. “I envision everyone outside in the sun, enjoying the music and refreshments, and helping us raise scholarship funds,” Claire expressed, looking forward to an upscale experience.
Further details regarding timings and ticket prices are still being finalized.
For those interested in contributing art to the 2026 NHS CAP Behind the Scenes Scholarship fundraiser, Claire can be contacted via email at dinotoclaire16@gmail.com, through Facebook, or on Instagram @NHSCapClub.
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Managing Editor Shannon Hicks can be reached at shannon@thebee.com.
Newtown High School senior Claire DiNoto is leading a silent art auction to raise funds for scholarships designated for students balancing non-academic duties. As the founder and president of NHS CAP Club, Claire is paving the way for future opportunities. —Bee Photo, Hicks
The NHS College Application Prep Club, which launched two years ago, aspires to raise enough funds this spring for two scholarships, with contributions from local artists paving the way.
One of the first pieces is a 10- by 14-inch watercolor titled “Bethany Beach, DE” by Kelly M. Urso, illustrating the community’s support for this honorable initiative. — Image courtesy Kelly M. Urso