Molly Williamson, Class of 1974, started by congratulating the Class of 2024, saying it was 50 years
ago that she walked across the stage to be handed her diploma by her principal, Dr. Horace Jackson. Molly said he was one of the most influential adults at the time as was her Sociology teacher, Glenn Anderson, who was in attendance at the ceremony.  She told the graduating students, “your teachers are amazing!”

First place winner, Kevin Cuaron, shared a story in his application that reflects his resilience and compassion — two of the qualities this scholarship is intended to honor. He also excelled as a student while studying piano, participating on the Soccer Team and serving on the Multicultural Council: “It’s a different leadership club on campus (because) it promotes unity and diversity in the classroom and across campus and brings everyone together. That’s something every campus needs.”

Kevin said, “If given the opportunity to speak to Dr. Jackson, I would ask him about his mindset and what kept him motivated to keep pushing forward. I think motivation is very crucial because that can make or break a person.” Kevin says the scholarship is definitely motivating him to continue to college even though he’s not sure yet what career he wants to pursue.

2nd place winner, Ashley Ruiz described in her personal essay her ambitions for a mental health career: “College offers a platform for me to amplify my voice and advocate for change. Through research, activism, and community engagement, I aim to challenge societal norms surrounding mental health and champion policies that prioritize equitable access to care…I aspire to cultivate a culture of empathy and understanding, one where mental illness is met with compassion rather than condemnation.”

Krystal Huerta, 3rd place winner, in her personal essay, spoke of understanding early on that it was a privilege to be a US citizen. “There is so much opportunity and dreams to pursue. I saw this as an amazing thing to be blessed with but also something that seems like the weight of pressure. Which is why I want to use my citizenship to the full advantage and study for something that I can be proud of ...I want to show my parents that their decision and hard work coming to the U.S. wasn’t for nothing.”