“While it is great to receive the money for the scholarship, I feel most proud of what it means to receive it because it isn’t just some random scholarship I applied for.
It’s something that I’ve had my eye on this whole year because it was about doing things for others. That sums up the whole reason that I want to pursue my dreams of being a firefighter.
I’m very thankful to receive this scholarship and thank you for choosing me. This award makes me feel very proud and accomplished for all the hard work that I’ve put in and it pushes me to pursue my dream even further.”
David Ayala, 2023 Matt Atkinson Scholarship recipient, Green Bay East High School
You have probably heard the saying, "it takes a village to raise a child". We had the privilege of attending CollegeReady's Lamp of Knowledge event this month and the keynote speak, Feliks Albright spoke a lot about his 'village'. He emphasized how important it was to create a network of relationships with people who share the same values- to mentor each other and pay the kindness forward.
It got me thinking about students like David, and so many of our scholarships recipients. How at a young age, they see the importance of the 'village' and being a part of one to support each other.
And I think they learned a lot of that from their school environment and communities- the selfless teachers and guidance office. The sponsors of the scholarships and the people who make sure they know all of the opportunities in life.
Thank you for being a part of that village for so many...
