Francesco Brusco

Alumnus Francesco (Frankie) Brusco is a dedicated student and researcher making incredible strides in Biology and Anthropology at Davidson College.

After graduating from College Academy at Broward College in 2022, Frankie began studying at Davidson as a The Posse Foundation scholar and a Berry College Bonner Scholars Program. In just the first year, Frankie took on multiple leadership and service roles, including becoming a Resident Advisor (RA), founding the Anthropology Club, serving as Major Events Coordinator for Davidson's Union Board, and participating in Davidson’s Strategies for Success program, a STEM mentoring initiative. Frankie was also on the Bonner Leadership Team, balancing these responsibilities with a double major in Biology and Anthropology. 

Frankie participated in Davidson's RISE Program, conducting Genomics and regulatory transcription research under Dr. Deborah Thurtle-Schmidt’s lab. Frankie also conducted Immunology research at Duke University Medical School as part of the Duke Integrative Immunobiology program, while continuing volunteer work with the Police Athletic League, Inc. (PAL) in Miami Beach. 

From September to December 2024, Frankie studied genetics and immunology at the The University of Edinburgh in Scotland, further expanding his academic horizons. This immersive international experience is another step in Frankie’s already impressive academic journey. 

As a Posse and Bonner Scholar, Frankie is committed to giving back through community service while excelling academically. The balance between these pursuits is challenging, but Frankie credits College Academy for instilling the grit and motivation needed to succeed in college.