Scholarship Stories

The Ripple Effect – Drezner Family Scholarship Fund

Julie and Rob Drezner have always sought to make positive change. Julie, former VP of Community Impact at the CFMC, has her MSW and a passion for social justice and Rob has his PhD in psychology. Both used their careers and volunteering to make a difference. The ripple effect these scholars provide as they move forward with their careers will...

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Growing Opportunity: Scholarships

One of the ways the Community Foundation for Monterey County strengthens communities is through scholarship funds. The CFMC manages nearly 70 named scholarship funds established by individuals, families and businesses who recognize the value of education and want to create opportunities for local students. Receiving the scholarship has made everything so much easier. I’m free to focus on my studies....

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Finnigan Scholarship Award Recipients

The Autism Society of California, the Finnigan family and the Community Foundation for Monterey County (CFMC) proudly announce the names of three highly qualified California students who received Achievement Scholarship awards through the National Achievement Scholarship Program. Emma Blanck of Moorpark received the 2023 1st place scholarship award of $2,000. Clara Garcia of Riverside was awarded the 2nd place $1,000...

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My Scholarship Story: Laura Rivera

Women’s Fund Scholarship Recipient Laura K. Rivera Shares Her Story Laura Rivera, a Spanish and Political Science major and current Vice-President and Student Trustee of Hartnell College, is a recipient of the Girls’ Health in Girls’ Hands Scholarship of the Community Foundation for Monterey County. A first-generation Latina college student named 2022 Young Adult Philanthropist of the Year by the...

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My Scholarship Story: Brandon Le

Brandon Le, a freshman at UCLA born and raised in Seaside, has always been fascinated by how things work. “I’m really interested in problem solving,” he told us. “Ever since I was a kid, I integrated myself into technology. I grew up liking electronics, and I always wanted to know: what’s behind all that?” Brandon enrolled in challenging computer science...

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