HispanicBusiness

Nine regional colleges awarded scholarships to high school seniors during the 13th annual Champions of Diversity Awards ceremony, held Dec. 5, 2012, for their contributions to diversity in their schools and communities.

The ceremony honored a total of 87 area high school students. Educational institutions, local businesses and community organizations awarded a record-high $208,366 in scholarships to 59 seniors who have shown exemplary service in leadership, community service, and in academic and educational activities, according to Public Information Director Arden Ainley.

Central Washington University, Eastern Washington University, Skagit Valley College, The Evergreen State College, University of Washington-Bothell, University of Washington- Seattle, University of Washington-Tacoma, Washington State University, and Western Washington University honored high school students from Skagit and Island counties.

The 24 scholarship recipients published today are listed by the college they will attend. Skagit Valley College recipients were published Jan. 13. Award recipients will be published later this month.

High schools indicated are Anacortes High School -- AHS, Burlington-Edison High School -- BEHS, Burlington-Edison North High School -- BENHS, La Conner High School -- LCHS, Mount Vernon High School -- MVHS, Oak Harbor High School -- OHHS, Sedro-Woolley High School -- SWHS.

Central Washington

University

Four students received $5,000 scholarships: Zach Bamba and Jessika Meadows, MVHS; Elany Corado, SWHS; and Fortino Partida, LCHS.

Zach Bamba has maintained a 3.4 GPA throughout high school while participating in DECA, basketball, and lettering in baseball and football. Zach has also volunteered at California homeless shelters through LA Missions and churches.

Jessika Meadows is a member of Careers in Education and has been involved in Children of the Valley, the Children's Art Festival and Kids Club at Riverside Health Club. She has played basketball, softball and soccer. Jessika would like to study education.

Elany Corado has participated in AVID, La Cima, NW Wild and YAIL leadership programs. She was a Be the Change leader, Safety Captain of Robotics Club, and she volunteers at Helping Hands Food Bank. Elany trains new Debate Club recruits and competes in Congressional Debate.

Fortino Partida attends Native American cultural events, supports Spanishspeaking peers and works with underprivileged kids. He is a community mentor, translator, youth coach and caregiver. Fortino is interested in studying international business in college.

Eastern Washington

University

Two students were awarded $7,933 scholarships: Elizabeth Alvarado, BEHS; and Andrea Garcia, MVHS.

Elizabeth Alvarado participates in AVID and Latinos in Action. She volunteers through Skagit Harvest Festival, Buddy Walk and the high school mentorship program. She is also a member of Key Club, Earth Club and Literacy Club. Elizabeth plans to earn a bachelor's degree in English and become a writer.

Andrea Garcia is involved in LINK and Sports Medicine Club. She would like to become a pediatrician.

The Evergreen State College

Three students received $5,000 awards: Linnaea Groh, Micaela Vanderwal and Melissa Wilkerson, all at SWHS.