Dozens of South Valley students were awarded a total of 115 scholarships at the Gavilan College Foundation “From Gratitude to Greatness” banquet on Aug. 6.
The event at the Gavilan Student Center celebrated student achievement among the recipients and their families.
“At Gavilan, we are committed to providing every student with the opportunity to pursue their educational goals, and our celebration shows exactly what makes that possible: the power of community,” said Gavilan College Superintendent and President Dr. Pedro Avila. “We thank our donors whose generosity opens doors, changes trajectories and tells each of these students to achieve academic excellence and to become the leaders of tomorrow.”
With support from the nonprofit foundation’s donors and community partners, 115 scholarships awarded to 83 students represent $103,000 in scholarship funds, says a statement from the Gavilan College Foundation. In addition, two students received the UC Santa Cruz Karl S. Pister Scholarship totaling $40,000, and three students received partner awards.
In total, $145,300 in scholarship awards were distributed to support 88 continuing and transfer students this year.
More than 250 guests—including family, friends, Gavilan College trustees, and Gavilan College Foundation board members—attended the event.
Guest speakers included alumna Madison Ramirez and current student Steven Ramsey, who both spoke about the support they received from counselors and faculty. Ramsey also shared the impact scholarships have had on his life.
“The students we are honoring are the future leaders of our community and their success becomes our success,” said Director of the Gavilan College Foundation, Anna Quinones. “These scholarships do more than ease the cost of higher education—they affirm that hard work is seen and there is a community behind every student.”
