Ten seniors at Rancho Bernardo, Del Norte and Mt. Carmel high schools each received $2,100 scholarships for going “above and beyond to make life easier for others” despite their own challenging circumstances.
The combined $21,000 was presented on April 3 by the Rotary Club of Rancho Bernardo and its Rancho Bernardo Rotary Club Foundation during a dinner at The Heights Golf Club.
Rotarian Gary Saks said the scholarship program not only honors high-achieving seniors, but those with special needs.
“(It is) unique and … pretty much different from most other scholarships,” Saks said. “We are proud to have started that.”
“We decided that scholarships should not be only given to just high academic achievers. Many students have big challenges, have overcome major obstacles, yet still become valuable contributors to their school and their community and make a positive impact on students’ lives and school.”
Last year, the program was revised so instead of a rigorous application process, nominations were made by school faculty so the Rotarians could find the most deserving students who could use financial assistance, Saks said.
While many have taken Advanced Placement courses, high academic success is not a primary requirement. Rather, Saks explained, the Rotarians want to honor students who demonstrated a drive to succeed and achieved what they were not expected to, especially under challenging circumstances.
The scholarships can be used for any academic need.
The students have shown a commitment to “making our world a better place through achievements in academics, altruistic deeds, comion for others, music, sports, etc. and would benefit greatly from receiving the financial help,” Saks said.
Eight standard scholarships were awarded, along with two special needs scholarships. Those selected were:
• Gian Carlo Alvarez, an RB High senior, nominated by counselor Maureen Changnon, who noted his “exceptional and steadfast optimism in the face of significant challenges.”
Alvarez has a GPA of over 4.0, is a peer counselor, vice president of Mock Trial, leader on the wrestling team and “consistently demonstrates his leadership, comion and commitment to making a positive impact on his school community,” Changnon said.
She also praised his “natural empathy and willingness (to) others — such as guiding new students from Mexico — (saying it showcases) his generosity of spirit and his readiness to uplift those around him.”
“It means a lot to me … I was very surprised,” Alvarez said about his selection, adding he feels that because he puts so much positivity out in the world by tutoring others, this scholarship is that positivity coming back to him.
Alvarez said his plan is to major in economics and public policy at San Diego State University and his career goal is to become an attorney so he “can represent those who don’t have a voice.”
• Jae Bender, a Mt. Carmel High senior, was nominated by choir director Zachary Manlapid for dedication to his craft and “quiet yet powerful leadership.”
Bender’s activities have included performing with the advanced choir, having principal roles in Theatre at the Mount productions and being a teacher’s assistant for Beginning Choir “where he uplifts and s younger students in mastering music theory, vocal technique and stage performance,” Manlapid said.
Bender is also a Sundevil Ambassador, which shows his “outstanding character” and has him volunteering at local elementary schools to teach students about citizenship and the “Sundevil Way,” Manlapid said.
Bender said he is planning to study communication at a college in Pomona or Palomar College, and he aspires to work in media.
• Robert Gallo, an RB High senior who received a special needs scholarship, was nominated by counselor Joyce Toledo.
“Despite facing personal hardship, Robert found the strength to continue with school, his classes and stay committed to his education,” she said.
Toledo praised Gallo choosing to stay in school even though he met his graduation requirements early and for “maintaining a great GPA.” She noted that he “has done an excellent job thriving in a high school environment” and “His growth over the past four years has been second to none.”
Gallo said he “didn’t believe it” when informed of his scholarship and plans to attend Miramar College. His aspiration is to become an author.
• Reece Gonzales, a Del Norte High senior who received a special needs scholarship, was praised by education specialist Nicole Crepeau for his “infectious optimism, kindness and strong moral com,” which she said “make him a role model among his peers and a valued presence in any environment.”
Crepeau also said Gonzales balances academic success with meaningful friendships and musical contributions to the school orchestra, which showcases his discipline and teamwork. He is also a member of Best Buddies.
Gonzales’ desire to become a special education teacher “highlights his deep desire to help others” and “commitment to making a lasting impact on his community,” Crepeau said.
• Bella Riley, a Del Norte High senior, was nominated by teacher Kristen James for her “resilience and unwavering commitment to her goals” while transforming personal tragedy “into a source of strength, inspiring both peers and teachers with her perseverance.” if we mention personal tragedy here we should say what it was
James noted that Riley has been dedicated to her academics, improved her grades and is very involved in Del Norte’s theater program. This “showcases her ability to balance responsibilities with ion and creativity.”
Riley was also praised for her “strong work ethic, leadership and ability to uplift those around her,” in James’ nomination.
“I feel very special to be honored,” Riley said, adding she was “shocked” upon learning of her selection.
Riley said she plans to major in biology at a university and her career aspiration is to become a cardiologist.
• Smithi Thaneer, a Del Norte High senior, was nominated by counselor Kathleen Marron, who praised her “perseverance and proactive approach to overcoming challenges” including debilitating migraines.
Marron cited Thaneer’s achievements in Advanced Placement courses, leadership and community involvement. This includes being a mentor in Bharatanatyam dance and a First Lego League robotics coach for younger students.
“Smithi’s volunteer work at ActivCare Senior Home showcases her empathy and thoughtful nature, as she brings joy and comfort to residents through engaging activities, strengthening her communication skills and building meaningful connections,” Marron said.
Thaneer said she plans to major in finance and her goal is to help individuals with their financial management and literacy.
• Jacob Vasallo, an RB High senior, was nominated by counselor Tish Bates, who praised him for “exceptional academic achievements … (that) reflect his strong aptitude and ion for learning, as well as his dedication to a well-rounded education through his Spanish studies.”
His activities have included art, playing rugby and a part-time job at Starbucks, which she said “demonstrates his remarkable time management, teamwork and resilience.”
Bates added that his “authenticity, self-awareness and creative talent in art not only allow him to connect with others in unique ways, but also showcase his multifaceted personality and drive to excel in all aspects of life.”
Vasallo said he plans to attend college in San Luis Obispo, major in agriculture sciences and his aspiration is to work in agriculture research.
• Orianna Whitley, an RB High senior, was nominated by counselor Tish Bates for her “inspiring” persistence and consistent focus on her future despite navigating health struggles and complex family dynamics.
Whitley’s “exceptional” academic achievements were also noted, saying they show her “deep commitment to learning, demonstrate her remarkable work ethic and determination to succeed.”
Bates added, “Orianna’s genuine kindness, maturity and authenticity shine through in her interactions with peers and staff, making her a standout leader.”
Whitley said she plans to attend college in Long Beach, major in English and aspires to become an English teacher.
• Lena Xie, a Del Norte High senior, was praised for her “unwavering drive and self-sufficiency” by counselor Kathleen Marron. This included completing 12 Advanced Placement courses “despite navigating personal and financial challenges largely on her own.”
Xie’s leadership has included being president of Stickers for Charity, raising over $6,000 for organizations like Feeding America and environmental advocacy through Grow a Change.
“Lena’s talents extend beyond academics and leadership, with accomplishments as a Golden State Wushu Gold Champion (a form of martial arts), a Chinese calligraphy enthusiast and an animation student at the California State Summer School for the Arts, demonstrating her discipline, creativity and cultural appreciation,” Marron said.
Xie said she is considering attending Harvard University but has not chosen a major.
• Antony Ran Yu, a Del Norte High senior, was nominated by counselor Kathleen Marron for his “adaptability and determination” in transitioning from an English language learner to excelling in Advanced Placement courses “all while helping his family navigate their move to the United States.”
She also mentioned Yu’s ion for engineering that includes hands-on projects such as building model airplanes and participation in prestigious aerospace programs.
“Antony’s empathy and generosity shine through his volunteer work, where he refurbishes computers for those in need and teaches English to a community in China, highlighting his genuine desire to uplift others and make a meaningful impact,” Marron said.
Yu said he plans to attend Pennsylvania State University, major in electrical engineering and wants to work in the aerospace industry.
