The Maximus Derba Educational Scholarship & Mission

2023 – The Beginning

2023 marked the start of something truly special. Thanks to the generosity of family, friends, and our community, the Maximus Derba Educational Scholarship raised $5,200 in its very first year. With these funds, we were able to award two scholarships to Sarah and Tom from St. Andrew Catholic School’s 8th grade graduating class, supporting their next chapter at Bishop Verot Catholic High School.

2024 – Growing the Mission

In April of 2024, we launched the very first Maximus Derba’s Mission Educational Luncheon, an annual event created not only to raise funds, but to bring people together over a shared meal, companionship, and purpose.

We were honored to welcome guest speakers from Ronald McDonald House and Valerie’s House, who shared their powerful stories and the vital resources they provide to families caring for children with cancer and to those navigating grief. Adding warmth and laughter to the day, Colleen Mattfield delighted the crowd with sweet (and funny!) memories of teaching Max in her second-grade class. The luncheon closed with Declan Derba, who shared heartfelt reflections of his brother and how he continues to live every day in Max’s honor.

That same spring, at the St. Andrew Catholic School Class of 2024 graduation, the scholarship was awarded to Huyen Quinn Dinh, who has already begun thriving at Bishop Verot Catholic High School.

2025 – Continuing the Legacy

At the May 2025 St. Andrew 8th grade graduation, the scholarship grew once again. This year’s recipients were Ainsley Judd and Alexis Schuman, both of whom are now beginning their own high school journeys at Bishop Verot.

The Impact – So Far

All thanks to your generosity, since its inception the Maximus Derba Educational Scholarship has awarded $13,000 in scholarships to support students in Max’s honor. This is only the beginning, and with each year, the impact continues to grow — carrying forward Max’s light, his laughter, and his mission. 💙✨