At Brother Rice, we are proud to celebrate the success of our alumni whose lives reflect the values of faith, scholarship, service, and integrity. One such Crusader is J.D. Gamboa ’24, who continues to make us proud as the first recipient of the prestigious Joe and Linda Zurad Scholarship, awarded by Milhouse Engineering & Construction.
This scholarship honors Joe Zurad, a respected leader in the engineering world, known for his loyalty, technical excellence, and unwavering integrity. Alongside his wife, Linda, Joe has impacted countless lives through his mentorship and leadership — and now, through this scholarship, he and Linda are helping shape the next generation of engineers.
J.D., a Class of 2024 graduate of Brother Rice, is now studying nuclear engineering at the University of Illinois. During his time at Brother Rice, he distinguished himself both in and out of the classroom. At graduation, he was recognized with several of the school’s highest honor in general excellence, science, Christian service, and mathematics.
These awards speak to J.D.’s intellectual talent, servant leadership, and commitment to excellence — all of which made him a natural fit for the Joe and Linda Zurad Scholarship.
“What an honor to be the first recipient of the Joe & Linda Zurad Scholarship Award,” J.D. shared. “Working with Mr. Zurad has been a pleasure — and will continue to be! He’s been a great mentor, and I’ve learned so much from one of the smartest individuals in the electrical and power field. I’m excited and grateful for the opportunity to keep working with him and the entire Milhouse family to achieve great results. Thank you so much!”
With Joe and Linda present, J.D. was honored as the inaugural recipient in a moment that celebrated not only academic promise, but also character, humility, and purpose — the very values that define both the Zurads and the Brotherhood we cherish at Brother Rice.
Congratulations, J.D.! Your Crusader family is incredibly proud of you. May you continue to “Act Manfully in Christ Jesus” as you represent Brother Rice with distinction in all you do.
