Norton "Adapt and Overcome" Scholarship Fund

The Norton “Adapt and Overcome” Scholarship was created after Phil and Braiden Norton recognized a need to support graduating high school seniors who have pursued their education while enduring extraordinary physical medical challenges—students for whom simply showing up to school each day required uncommon strength and perseverance. The inspiration behind this scholarship is Braiden Norton himself. Throughout high school, Braiden faced daily battles brought on by a brain tumor and a rare paralysis condition, obstacles that would have stopped many in their tracks. Yet, he continued forward. His father, Phil, witnessed firsthand the determination, courage, and optimism Braiden summoned each morning just to step into the classroom. Braiden’s commitment to staying positive and earning his diploma is nothing short of remarkable. Today, he is a proud Third Class (sophomore) Cadet at Massachusetts Maritime Academy, pursuing a degree in International Maritime Business. Phil Norton first learned the phrase “Adapt and Overcome” when he entered the U.S. Navy, but its deeper meaning did not take root until Braiden’s brain tumor diagnosis at just one year old. Over time, those words became far more than a motto, they became a guiding force. As Braiden grew old enough to understand the phrase, it became the family’s shared mantra, a source of strength as they navigated every challenge and uncertainty that came with his medical journey. This scholarship honors that spirit, the courage to adapt, the determination to overcome, and the belief that even in the face of adversity, a student’s dreams are still within reach. Phil and Braiden’s goal is to provide a $1,000.00 scholarship to one graduating high school student seeking further education who has faced medical-related challenges in grade school, each year. Contributing to our scholarship fund will help us continue to reach our goal. We greatly appreciate your contribution.