The YWCA of Orange County (OC) expressed immense pride in the remarkable dedication demonstrated by its scholarship recipients—young women ready to make a meaningful impact in their communities and beyond. Many of these scholars are pursuing ambitious paths in fields such as healthcare, architecture, and disability advocacy. To honor each recipient, the YWCA held an award ceremony and brunch at the Elks Lodge on August 15.

Among the scholarship recipients from California State University, Fullerton (CSUF) are:

• Hillena Mehari, a second-year student pursuing a B.S. in Civil Engineering with a minor in Computer Science;
• Trianna Lopez, studying for a B.S. in Biochemistry;
• Diana Ruvalcaba, attending CSUF as a STEM major specializing in mathematics with a minor in Spanish;
• Jasmine Cerasuolo, attending CSUF as a STEM major specializing in Computer Science;
• Natalee Ibarra, attending CSUF as a STEM major specializing in Civil Engineering; and
• Joanna Rodriguez, attending CSUF as a STEM major specializing in Computer Science.

From Fullerton College, the awardees include:

• Mahtab Areai, a returning student whose second language is English, majoring in Business Administration;
• Monique Borunda, a returning student working towards a B.S. in Psychology;
• Samantha Sanchez, a STEM program student obtaining her Associate for Transfer in Biology with a pre-med focus; she is also in the Mathematics, Engineering, Science Achievement Program;
• Gisselle Gonzalez, a STEM program student specializing in Biology with a goal of becoming a teacher;
• Rosa Lucero, a returning student; English is her second language, majoring in Kinesiology
• Andrea Morales, a returning student who plans to earn a degree in Construction Management with an emphasis on Electrical work;
• Nigits Tekle, an International Student from Ethiopia, a STEM program specializing in Electrical Engineering;
• Destiny Okechukwu-Nwabueze, a STEM student majoring in Biology; she is also in the Mathematics, Engineering, Science Achievement Program. She finished high school in Malaysia and then moved to California, successfully adapting to the new culture and language; and
• Orpah Montesines, an international student from the Philippines, is in the STEM program and majoring in Biology.

Through scholarships such as the Ruth Thurmond, Bill McGarvey, and Joan & Burnie Cohen Scholarships, YWCA of OC aims to empower women through education. Community leaders fund the scholarships to expand educational opportunities for women, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds.

The Ruth Thurmond Scholarship, established over 25 years ago, supports women returning to college after raising families, single parents, and those pursuing careers in underrepresented STEM fields. The Bill McGarvey Scholarship offers financial assistance to undergraduate women at CSUF, while the Joan & Burnie Cohen Scholarship enables Fullerton College students to earn certificates, complete degrees, or transfer to four-year universities.

YWCA of OC emphasizes that receiving these scholarships is not merely a financial boon; it represents an investment in the personal and academic growth of these exceptional women, recognizing their hard work and potential to create meaningful change in their communities. The organization remains dedicated to supporting these scholars as they embark on their respective journeys, ensuring that their ambitions contribute to a brighter future for all.

Diana Ruvalcaba

Joanna Rodriguez with her children

Hillena Mehari

Trianna Lopez

Jasmine Cerasuolo

Nigits Tekle