Each year, hardworking local students with proven academic success and high financial need receive the Promise scholarship. This year, fifteen driven scholars join the program, backed by a community committed to making their goals more accessible.
Daniela Aguillon
West Ottawa High School
Attending: Michigan State University
“I chose to major in Biology following my experience with brain trauma, which strengthened my resilience and inspired my goal of becoming a radiologist. I am super excited to move on to this next chapter of my life, to meet new people, and continue to give back to my community!”
Kai Gracia
Black River High School
Attending: University of Michigan
“Not only do I get to attend my dream school, the University of Michigan, but I am able to do so with the support of the Promise Scholarship. This opportunity has truly changed my life and gives me confidence to pursue all my dreams.“
Jocelin Juarez Alvarez
West Ottawa High School
Attending: College for Creative Studies
“I’m excited to pursue the arts, as I plan to use the skills I learn to both create entertainment for the next generations and also use my art as a tool to raise awareness for environmental issues.“
Keiona Long
Holland High School
Attending: University of Michigan
“I plan to major in biology because my own struggles with skin conditions showed me how deeply health and confidence are connected. It’s important to have doctors who understand and represent diverse patients. I’m inspired to pursue dermatology so I can provide accurate, compassionate care and be the kind of doctor I once needed.“
Karinna Martinez
Holland High School
Attending: Hope College
“The Promise will allow me to continue my education and work towards my goals in a career where I can impact youth and my community. I am so thankful to God, and the community organizations and mentors who helped open this life changing door for me.”
Miguel Mendoza
West Ottawa High School
Attending: Michigan State University
“I would like to thank the community for investing in students like me. Receiving the Promise scholarship means the community believes in my future, which motivates me to stay focused and make the most of my education.“
Josiah Muller
Zeeland East High School
Attending: University of Michigan
“This scholarship is a testament to how powerful a community can be when it chooses to believe, and it inspires me to carry that belief forward. Challenge whoever told you that you can’t by proving that you can. When the voice in your head says your limitations cannot be overcome, overcome them anyway.“
Xavier Murphy
Holland High School
Attending: Michigan State University
“I’m truly grateful and want to thank God and my parents for always being by my side and supporting me through my educational journey. This scholarship has given me an incredible opportunity to continue my education and take a big step toward becoming a first-generation college graduate.“
Noah Nava
Holland High School
Attending: Michigan State University
“Education is a powerful privilege, and I’m committed to using it to make a difference. I see my future in healthcare, where my passion and skills can help others, and I feel the responsibility to use them.“
Isabel Niles
West Ottawa High School
Attending: Michigan State University
“As I go into nursing, I’m excited to grow not only in knowledge, but in compassion, so I can care for others during their most vulnerable moments. This scholarship is more than an opportunity; it is a life-changing event that allows me to pursue my dreams without limits. I thank God, my teachers, and my mom for guiding and supporting me every step of the way.“
Adanycia Rodriguez
Zeeland East High School
Attending: Western Michigan University
“The Promise ensures a bright future for me; as I can really focus on my career. I will be able to set the trend for my younger family members and make my parents proud.“
Sophia Rodriguez-Rojas
West Ottawa High School
Attending: Michigan State University
“I’m eternally blessed to have received the Promise Scholarship, and with that I would like to thank God for the blessing and opportunity He has given me. As a first-generation student, I can now pursue my dream of going into the medical profession.”
Makai Sounthonethip
West Ottawa High School
Attending: Michigan State University
“The Promise allows me to pursue a path I have dreamt of since I was a little kid. Being a first-generation high school graduate and going on to post-secondary education means a lot. I thank God, CFHZ and their donors for this journey to begin college!“
Vinh Tran
West Ottawa High School
Attending: Michigan State University
“I am incredibly grateful for the Promise scholarship and to CFHZ for the opportunities and doors they have helped open for me. Their generosity allows me to confidently say my goals of higher education are not far from being accomplished!”
Amanda Trusty
West Ottawa High School
Attending: Hope College
“The Promise means that I will be the first in my family to go to college and can achieve my goal of becoming a criminal defense attorney. The community is the reason I have been able to go on this journey. Thank you not only for supporting me but for supporting the little girl who dreamed of helping people and knew she needed a college education to do so.”
