Scholarship Stories
Scholar Spotlight – Dayanara Preciado
Finding Her Voice Dayanara Preciado received three scholarships from the CFMC in 2023: the Ipson Tully Memorial Scholarship, Steve and Marti Diamond Scholarship and a College Futures Scholarship. She attends the University of California, Berkeley, with a double major in Political Science and Legal Studies. Naturally shy and grappling with the challenges of learning a new language, Dayanara, a first-generation...
Read moreMy Scholarship Story – Lizeth Patena
Lizeth Patena graduated from Salinas High School in 2020 during the pandemic. She participated in Girls’ Health in Girls’ Hands (GHGH) and received GHGH Women’s Fund Scholarships to help her achieve her academic and career goals, graduating from CSUMB as a Liberal Studies major with a concentration in bilingual education. She shared her story at the May 17, 2024 Women’s...
Read moreThe 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...
Read moreGrowing 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....
Read moreFinnigan 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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