The City of San Fernando Education Commission has announced 10 recipients in its eighth annual scholarship contest, awarding over $6,000 this year.
Gerry’s Kids Scholarship — $1,250
Vincent Mohr, Vaughn International Studies Academy (VISA)
Geraldine “Gerry” Hou was a Young Adult Librarian for over 20 years with the LA Public Library and encouraged countless young people of color to pursue college education and a lifelong passion for learning. This scholarship is funded annually by her family in memory of Gerry and her work with students. The scholarship proceeds target students pursuing higher education at colleges and universities outside of Southern California with the aim of easing some of the financial challenges for young adults in being away from their support system at home, in many instances for the first time in their lives.
Republic Services – Cesar Chavez Scholarship — $1,000
Maurisio Rodriguez Nunez, VISA
Republic Services is working with the Education Commission to help students reach waste reducing goals within the City and become leaders in the three r’s: reduce, reuse and recycle. Republic Services believes that tomorrow’s thinkers and innovators will solve and tackle pressing issues regarding the conservation of our environment. These future scholars and leaders have the potential to create greener living standards, an environmentally sound economy and a measure of sustainability in all that they do.
Future Filmmakers Scholarship — $1,000
Jose Angel Caballero, Cesar Chavez Learning Academy – Academy of Scientific Exploration
This scholarship is generously offered by former Councilmember Hector A. Pacheco to inspire young members of our community who have chosen a career in filmmaking.
Environmental Sustainability Scholarship — $500
Javier Temoxtle, Cesar Chavez Learning Academy – Academy of Scientific Exploration
This scholarship, sponsored by Councilmember Joel Fajardo, is to encourage college-bound students to aspire toward a sustainable future.
Unheard Voices Scholarship — $500
Vincent Mohr, VISA
A social justice scholarship with an emphasis on LGBTQ issues, human relations, disenfranchisement, workplace rights or any other marginalized people. This scholarship is awarded to a student that recognizes the importance of including the perspectives of underrepresented groups. This scholarship is funded by Fajardo.
Pahola Mascorro – Why Not You Scholarship — $500
Klarissa Rogel, VISA
Pahola Mascorro became an unwitting symbol of hope for the San Fernando community after the tragic death of her son, Elias Rodriguez. While she battled cancer, she became the driving force behind Eli’s memorial scholarship. Pahola passed away in the summer of 2019, but her legacy of giving back lives on with this scholarship.
Elias Rodriguez Memorial Scholarship — $500/$250/$250
Natalie Padron, VISA
Gia Medina, Cesar Chavez Learning Academy – Academy of Scientific Exploration
Mariah Aguilar, Cesar Chavez Learning Academy – Academy of Scientific Exploration
Elias Rodriguez was a ninth grader attending Academy for Scientific Exploration (ASE) when his life was cut tragically short in February 2017. He was a thoughtful student, a caring son, a beloved brother, cousin, uncle, nephew, grandson and a great friend. He touched many hearts, not only among those who knew him, but also within the community.
Gabriel Fernandez Memorial Scholarship — $300 each
Ashley Colindres, VISA
Raphael Renzo Colindres, Cesar Chavez Learning Academy – Social Justice Humanitas Academy
The Gabriel Fernandez Memorial Scholarship honors the memory of the 8-year-old Palmdale boy whose life was taken tragically in 2013. Gabriel can become a hero in a student’s life and help them achieve their dream in his memory.