California State University, Stanislaus hosted the 2013-2014 Mary Stuart Rogers Scholarship luncheon at the Faculty Development Center from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Oct. 18.
Thirteen students were awarded for demonstrating academic performance along with a commitment to personal growth and a desire to serve others.
The Mary Stuart Rogers Scholarship targets students who are accepted into the Teachers Credential Program. The scholarship awards $3,000 to juniors and $3,500 to seniors.
Students must qualify for financial aid to be considered for the award. To qulify, students are required to be enrolled full time with a 3.5 GPA.
Applicants must provide two letters of recommendation from CSU Stanislaus faculty members and a 300 word essay describing why the student wants to be a Roger’s Scholar.
Since the program’s 1991 founding, more than $2.9 million in scholarships have been awarded to CSU Stanislaus students.
The annual Mary Stuart Rogers Scholarship recognizes students who have overcome challenges to excel academically.
Students who received the Mary Stuart Rogers award this year are: Mirna Alcala, Vanessa Brazil, Jamiee Cook, Isaac Farhaian, Annalisa Gallego, Jacklyn Hawkins, Evelyn Miramontes, Salochna “Devi” Narayan, Ana Orozco, Kayla Reeder, Ruben Rodriguez, Jasdeep Takhar and Christine Valenti.
Kayla Reeder earned a Bachelor’s degree in Liberal Studies while working three jobs to support herself. Reeder is the first member in her family to graduate from college.
Reeder explains the excitement she had when notified of the award.
“When I was notified that I was being awarded this amazing scholarship, I cried.” Reeder said.
“Your thoughtfulness and caring ways will definitely be carried with me for the rest of my life, and I will look back to a time when I was in need of help, and you gave me a helping hand.”
Mother of four, Vanessa Brazil hopes to become a teacher and create a non-profit writing and art therapy program for survivors and offenders of violence.
“I am deeply honored to be recognized by the Mary Stuart Rogers Foundation and will strive to live up to this honor throughout my academic pursuits and beyond,” Brazil (senior, English) said.
Ana Orozco expressed excitement for the opportunity.
“It makes me so happy and grateful that I live in such a wonderful country that helps students accomplish higher education,” Orozco (Political Science) said.
Information on scholarships is available through Financial Aid and Scholarships Office (209) 667-3336 csustan.edu/financialaid/scholarships/education.html.