By Leslie Rice, Treasurer
Because of all of our members’ generosity throughout the years, we were able to grant six $500 scholarships to continuing students at both San Jose City College and Evergreen Valley College this year. Leslie Rice, AFT 6157R Treasurer, attended San Jose City College’s Scholarship Ceremony on April 30, 2026, at The Spot (former bookstore space) on the 1st floor of the Robert N. Chang Student Center. According to Director of Financial Aid Takeo Kubo, “this year 78 students earned 117 awards worth a total of $140,350.00 from 45 scholarship opportunities.” Leslie was very proud to be there to honor these great students and future leaders in person.
Pictured on the left is Andrew Arredondo. He is currently a Communication Studies and Business Major at SJCC. In his thank you note to members, he writes: Thank you for awarding me the AFT 6157R Scholarship. Much appreciated. My journey continues.
The student on the right is Alexa Navarrete. She is currently a Spanish and Business Major at SJCC. She writes:
. . . I am truly grateful to be selected as a recipient of this scholarship. Your support means a lot to me and helps me continue my education with motivation and confidence. Thank you for investing in my future.
One scholarship winner Yizel Nunez was unable to attend. This student is majoring in Medical Assisting.
Evergreen Valley College’s Ceremony was held on May 14, 2026. Paul Fong, our AFT 6157R president, attended.
One of the winners at EVC was continuing student Edgar Granados. His current academic goal at EVC is to enter the Nursing Program. He hopes to earn Associate’s and Bachelor’s Degrees in Nursing in the future
Another winner at EVC was Amy Jasso. Currently, she is studying to earn her associate’s degree in Psychology, Sociology, and Child & Adolescent Development. After that, she hopes to transfer to San Jose State University. Jasso writes, “My time at this college has taught me that any goal can be met, as long as I am willing to put in the effort.”
Congratulations to all of the 2026 AFT 6157R Scholarship winners. We wish you much continued success, both academically and personally, in your bright futures.