McDonald’s Long Neck employee among scholarship awardees

The Meoli Companies, which operates McDonald’s restaurants across the Delmarva Peninsula, has awarded $8,000 in scholarships to four outstanding employees pursuing higher education.

This year’s recipients include Domonice White, a Long Neck team member whose inspiring story of hard work, community spirit and family-driven motivation exemplifies the goals of the scholarship program.

The selection committee considered community involvement, work experience and each applicant’s ability to overcome challenges in making their decisions. The competition was strong, with 35 team members applying for this year’s scholarships.

“The stories behind this year’s group are incredible,” said Michael A. Meoli, owner and operator of the Meoli Family McDonald’s Restaurants. “We are so proud to support young people who are using their time with us as a stepping stone to a bright future. The winners this year exemplify resilience, leadership and an unwavering commitment to growth.”

White was first encouraged by her mother to apply for a job at McDonald’s in order to gain early experience and develop a strong work ethic. Since then, she has come to value the job as a foundation for learning responsibility, time management and teamwork. Her time with The Meoli Companies has equipped her with skills she plans to carry into the future. She will attend Delaware Technical Community College this fall to study elementary education, with hopes of building a successful and fulfilling career. White views education as a key to independence and opportunity, and she is committed to putting in the hard work needed to reach her goals.

She said her biggest inspiration is her mother, who has modeled resilience and perseverance through life’s challenges. White credits her with instilling confidence and the drive to push forward, even when facing intimidating circumstances.

In addition to work and school, White is deeply involved in her community. She volunteers at the same local dance studio where she has trained since childhood, mentoring younger dancers and encouraging them to express themselves with confidence and joy. Her leadership and passion make her a role model to those around her, especially the next generation.

Niaomi Blocker of the Meoli Companies Dover North location was also selected as a recipient. She will attend Delaware Technical Community College to study sonography.

Two Maryland-based employees from Centreville McDonald’s were also awarded scholarships. Kaylee Verley, an Easton High School graduate, will attend Chesapeake College to study physical therapy after overcoming a life-changing car accident in her youth.
Michael Torres Perez, a recent graduate of North Caroline High School, will attend Carroll University to pursue biochemistry on his path to becoming a surgeon.

“These recipients highlight the very reason we established these company scholarships,” said Meoli. “They are determined, inspiring and a testament to what’s possible when you combine hard work with purpose. Not only have they made a difference in the restaurants where they work, they’ve also had a meaningful impact on their local communities. We’re honored to support their journey.”

Since 2023, The Meoli Companies has awarded more than $100,000 in scholarships to McDonald’s team members — including $30,000 directly through its own scholarship program and an additional $90,000 through the McDonald’s Archways to Opportunity initiative.