Scholarships awarded to 19 C.O. Latinx HS graduates
A total of 19 graduating Latinx students from Bend and La Pine received scholarships through a collaboration with the Education Foundation for Bend-La Pine Schools, the Oregon Community Foundation and the C.O. Latino Partnership Program.
The scholarships were also made possible by a generous donation from the B.E. Knudson Foundation and D.A. Davidson & Co. In 2018, first year of the program, 10 scholarships were awarded.
Cheryl Puddy , program officer for the Oregon Community Foundation’s Bend office, said, ” A big thank you to local OCF and Bend community donors who provided funding and to our partnership with the Education Foundation. Together we are helping create a lasting impression on the lives of Central Oregonian students. ” Students receive scholarship funds that can be applied to higher education or trade school plans. Priority is given to students who have participated in the Avanza , Ganas or Junto programs through COCC during their high school year.
“I am the first in my family to ever receive an education. As a child of immigrants, I have experienced the hardships of language, education and financial barriers and I currently work two jobs. My parents always emphasize the importance of education. Community resources such as Avanza and Ganas have helped me to continue and I am grateful. I would like to return the favor by helping other families and children achieve success and a healthy life. ” stated one Bend High Latinx Scholarship recipient.
Most of the students are the first in their family to attend higher education, with many of them working while attending high school.
“We are honored to present the scholarships to our graduating Latinx seniors, almost doubling the amount provided last year, and to support their educational or career dreams and aspirations. This is the only local Latinx scholarship opportunity available. Without the generosity of our donors, this would not be possible ” said Michelle Johnson, executive director.
The Education Foundation has invested over $1.5 million in financial support to the Bend-La Pine and Sunriver K-12 educational community over the past 30 years for the benefit of over 18,300 students and 2000 educators. For more details about this scholarship program and the work of the Education Foundation, contact us at (541) 355-5660 or visit the website at www.engagedminds.org.
About the Education Foundation for Bend-La Pine Schools
The Education Foundation, founded in 1988, prepares District students for success and future through exceptional educational and extracurricular activities.
