Saluting new scholars

Fresh out of high school and on their way to college, new scholars joined graduating scholars and others in between during a celebration luncheon June 23 at the Lazy Dog Restaurant in San Diego.

More than a dozen San Diego Education Fund scholarship recipients at varying stages of their college journeys attended to salute the newly-selected scholars: Angelina Abdelrahman, Melissa Garcia, Lexine Ragua, Teng Hout, Shama Delawarzai, Daira Lima, Sumeya Aweys, Amy Perez, Cameron Norman, Jacqueline Silva and Victor Zamora.

Also receiving congratulations were four graduating scholars: Zundus Farah, Larissa Dummer, Kassandra Delacruz and Sophia Leon.

During her remarks, Sophia told the new scholars that starting college can be scary, to eat right and get plenty of sleep.

“Take care of yourself,” Sophia said. “You’re going to be fine.”

More encouragement came from Tert Soriano, a San Diego Education Fund board member, alum and 2023 graduate from UC San Diego.

Ask questions, he said. Network. Take advantage of professors’ office hours. Get to know everyone.

“I was once in your shoes,” Soriano said. “I see the same potential in each and every one of you.”

Another board member, Sharon Whitehurst-Payne, said she wanted the newly-graduated teacher scholars to get teaching jobs. Whitehurst-Payne also is a member of San Diego Unified School District’s Board of Trustees.

Other board members in attendance included Interim President Becky Phillpott, Vice President Rhona Matthews, Treasurer Maureen Lamberti, Patricia Bacame, Barbara Brown, Johnnie Welborne and Tara Welborne.

A special guest and generous San Diego Education Fund supporter, Laverne Brown, told the students: “The world is just out there waiting for you.”