Meet our 2010 Scholars!

Envision Academy
UC Davis

A typical day for me went something like this:  wake up, go to school, do as much homework as possible, go to work at 5pm, do more homework during break, get home at midnight, finish homework and finally go to bed.  I realize how hard it is to make it in this world without a good education. I do not want to be a “typical Yemeni.” A typical Yemeni never graduates high school or goes to college. I will break the cycle.  I aim to set the bar high for the rest behind me.

“I have witnessed Farouk organizing and working with students to take difficult moral stands in the community.  He is thoughtful and determined, and this is why people respect and follow him.”
—Brandy Spong, History Teacher, Envision Academy

Tatiana Almendarez

Castlemont – CBITS
UC Davis

I know what it feels like not to be able to count on someone at home to help me academically, which is why I feel passionate about being a resource for my siblings.  I have developed a fascination for childcare and pediatrics.  I am determined to take part in the prevention of illness in my community.  Thus I want to start by educating young children about the importance of staying healthy.  I want to better myself by pursuing an education, becoming a pediatrician and helping build the future of our community through my work with children.

“In addition to being a top student, Tatiana is a pillar of strength at home.  She simply has limitless potential.”
—Nanci Roman, Program Coordinator, College and Career Information Center

Jessica Andrade Garcia

Life Academy
UC Davis

I am the youngest of three children and I will be the first in my family to go to college. My sisters’ bad experiences and my parents’ lack of education have inspired me to put my education first.  In the past year I have taken advantage of every opportunity.  My summer in Nicaragua had a big impact on my life.  When I was there I went to visit a dump.  There were people and cows living in it and eating from it.  The sight brought tears to my eyes. I could be in their shoes if my parents hadn’t sacrificed so much in coming to the U.S.

“Jessica is a rare student.  In science terms I would characterize ours as a symbiotic working relationship, we both have learned how to grow together. She is the kind of student that reminds teachers of why they became teachers.”
–Emily Rigotti, Teacher, Life Academy

Victoria Barnes

Oakland Tech
UC Riverside

There are different types of homeless; not every homeless person lives in shelters.  Ever since I can remember I have slept on living room floors and couches in the homes of relatives.  In order to escape poverty, I had to finish school and go to college.  I know that I can make through college and beyond because I have overcome many hardships.  I refuse to let negative issues determine my destiny in life.  I am very confident that I will graduate from college and be able to give back to my community, which is part of my purpose in life.

“Victoria has shown that she can work hard through difficult academic situations.  She has overcome a broken home and many doubters.”
—Charles Cole,  Education Coordinator, Juma Ventures

Eric Castillo

Metwest
San Jose State

Before I joined Students Run Oakland, I spent a lot of time in the streets.  Even though I do not do drugs, I grew up around gang affiliated people and drugs and felt peer pressured to use them.  When I first joined SRO, running five days per week for six months sounded difficult.  There were many times when I felt like quitting, but I did not. I did something I thought I would never be able to do, the Los Angeles marathon.  This program helped me find my true self. and made me realize how I am capable of doing things I set my mind to.

“Eric is very much rooted in his cultural identity, but unlike his peers, Eric has refused to internalize the stereotypes that Latino males are not academics.”
–Beth Fearon, Math Teacher, MetWest

Mame Mareme Diakhate

Skyline High School
St. Mary’s College

For five years I didn’t see my immediate family.  I lived with my grandparents and thirty other family members in Dakar, Senegal while my parents worked hard to get me to Oakland.  After living in the U. S. for eight years I have maintained our cultural customs.  Being so diverse makes me open-minded, well rounded and confident.  I am the varsity coxswain of our rowing team.  I am also part of the Mentoring in Medicine program.  As a first generation college student, my goals include pursuing a career in the medical field.

“Mareme has a wonderful smile.  It is part of the reason why people like her so much.  For her, the glass is always half-full.”
—-Nancy Stewart, Teacher, Skyline High School

Michelle Gomez

Life Academy
Stanford University

I have often felt like an outsider in the eyes of the people around me.  Many youth around me are caught by the amusement of gangs and the distraction of drugs.  Because I have seen the wrong turns that led them to a dead end, I did not follow the same pattern.  I want to be a youth psychologist and become a motivating force for the future generations in East Oakland.  I will help the youth in my community identify the obstacles that disable many of them from achieving success.  More than anything, I want to motivate them to take an alternate road.

“Michelle is exceptional.  Her ablity to be academically successful fundamentally comes from her clear vision and want of it.”
–Toai Dao, Advanced Biology/Chemistry Teacher, Life Academy

Juan Gonzales

Oakland Military Academy
UC Berkeley

By the eleventh grade, most of the friends I had known were pregnant, alcoholics, or drug addicts.  While they had what they called “fun, I spent my time tackling calculus problems, writing essays and studying, knowing that I had to overcome the destructive environment to ensure a successful future. I had the words “I will succeed” carved deeply into my mind.  My eyes were firmly set for a future with a college education and economic stability.  “Good things come to hard-working people” is what my parents always told me.

“Juan is a really decent human being.  He is one of those people that makes one believe that there is more good than bad in the world.”
—Joan Setka, Teacher, Oakland Military Institute

Ashley Heedley

Castlemont – Leadership Prep
Virginia State

I stood in line at the School District’s main building, waiting to tell why my school was worth saving.  I was about to stand at a podium, spotlight on me, with a camera in my face, and say what made my school important.  I was terrified and uncertain if I was able to do it… I spoke from the heart, a skill my time living with my grandparents helped me develop and my school perfected.  If something is important to you, you should keep it close; that’s how I feel about my school and my education.

“Ashley is a leader in the school.  She is a great student, and she’s dying to spread her wings and go to college.”
—Josh Alexander, Track and Field Coach, Castlemont

Imari Lyons

Castlemont- Leadership Prep
Texas Tech

My life has been through its ups and downs from the moment my stepfather disappeared. My struggles have shaped me into the person I am today.  I joined the varsity basketball team as a freshman.  I became a captain my junior year.  Basketball offered me three concepts:  dedication, self-control, and a sense of compatibility.  These were lacking in my life.  I have grown to love math and chemistry and I want to work in the medical field.  My new life starts the day I cross the stage and my principal hands me my diploma.

“Imari is going to go far in life. She is working so hard to lift herself out of this community that tends to trap its young people.”
—Sarah Nachowitz, Teacher, Leadership Prep

Terry Moland

Envision Academy
UC Riverside

I grew up without a father and became a teenager without a mother.  I remember being homeless for a year and having to sleep on park slides, huddling together with my brothers for body warmth.  Two years later my two younger brothers and me went to live with our father in Oakland.  With Oakland’s high murder and drug abuse rates it was only a matter of time before my eyes opened up to the real world. I use all these experiences as fuel to propel me out of this environment.  I must do so for myself and also for my little brothers behind me.

“Terry is one of those “one in a million” kids.  Nobody should have a life as tough as Terry. Seldom have I meant anyone who has survived with such grace and wisdom.”
—John Kittredge, History Teacher, Envision Academy

Ana Cristina Muro-Lizardo

Arise High School
Mills College

I was not going to see my father again, for now we were headed to the United States.  My mom has always been a motivation for me to succeed and inspires me to keep achieving my ambitious goals.  She helped me value education and be aware of my surroundings; help my brothers with their homework and guide them on the right path.  It has been hard, particularly when I see my friends with both parents having a good time, knowing I will never be able to do the same.  My mom’s role as both parents and her perseverance has led me to believe in my own power.

“While Ana Cristina is one of our school’s strongest students, she is also and exceptional human being.  Other students constantly look to her for help, which she is always willing to give.”
—Laura Flaxman, Co-Principal, Arise High School

Valerie Ndong Mengue

Oakland International
Sacramento State

I’m a young girl from Gabon, located in Central Africa.  Like so many immigrants I came to the U. S. in 2007 because of the opportunities.  I am much more resilient than I ever thought I was.  During the past four years I have made a new home across the world and learned a new language.  I do well in school and have all new friends and a new community. Everything is different from what I used to know.  I wrote a book about how a poor African family comes together for the education of their child.

“I cannot state enough what a great person Valerie is and how excited I am to see her grow at college.  Any college community would be fortunate to have her.”
—Tobias Rugger, Teacher, Oakland International High School

Ana Oseguera

Castlemont – Leadership Prep
San Francisco State

My family and I immigrated to this country in 1993.  Living in East Oakland has not disempowered me, it has made me grow as a person and inspired me to educate myself so I can come back and help my community thrive.  Although I feel I was not given an equal opportunity in my education due to lack of resources in my school and community, I have learned to be resilient, work extra hard and never give up.. I am proud to say that I am a first generation college student on the road towards becoming an attorney.

“Ana has met every challenge head on with confidence, and has remained dedicated to her educational goals. It has been my utmost honor to have known Ana as a student.”
—Samantha Odom, Counselor, Leadership Prep

Juan Perez

Lighthouse Community Charter
University of San Francisco

I would never complain when my mother couldn’t afford to buy me new clothes.  I never questioned my father’s absence, and I never considered that I was unlucky. Though it hurts to think back to when I was a little boy, I find relief thinking about what I have become–an insightful young man who strives to think and see beyond the surface.  My mother still can’t afford to buy me new clothes but I have a job tutoring and mentoring youth now.  I have not overcome every obstacle yet, but I can guarantee that I am working on it.

“In my twelve years of teaching, I have not met a more reflective, articulate, and compassionate young man.  His intellectual ability is matched with an ethos of service.”
—Drea Beale, Humanities Teacher, Lighthouse Community Charter School

Hazel Rodriguez

Lighthouse Community Charter
San Francisco State

My experience as co-founder of Lighthouse Alliance of Students Seeking Opportunities has given me the confidence to see myself as a leader in my school and community.  Additionally, my advocacy efforts motivated me to apply to Youth Law Academy, a three-year after-school program that exposes students to the law profession and prepares them to go to college.  I am now inspired to one day be a successful immigration attorney, fighting to create just immigration reform and advocating for laws that treat everyone equally, regardless of their citizenship status.  I don’t want others to face the same challenges I have.

“I have no doubt in my mind that Hazel is a rising star in our community who has great potential and who in the near future will position herself to create positive systematic change.”
—Maria Chavez, Director of the Youth Law Academy, Centro Legal de La Raza

Nestor Roman Ortiz

Oakland International
San Francisco State

Three years ago, I left Guatemala by myself with a dream of a better future. I have learned that this is truly possible.  I received my permanent residence card on a beautiful day in September.  I have been learning English and now speak, read and write.  I get good grades and I enjoy school.  I dream about becoming a businessman, a lawyer, a teacher.  Most of all I dream about going to college.  I am still scared sometimes but I realize that I have made a great start on a new life.

“Even the way Nestor plays soccer reflects his determination to succeed in life.  When he gets going, it seems like there is no stopping him.”
—Ben Gucciardi, Soccer Coach, Soccer Without Borders

Isidro Ruvalcaba, Jr.

Lighthouse Community Charter
UC Davis

My Outward Bound training and Sandia National Labs internship helped me develop my own philosophical ideas of what would create a better world.  They guided me toward going “green” and wanting to do something about global warming.  They helped me dedicate my life towards success.  I want to set an example for other youth in Oakland.   My main priorities are to follow my scientific interests and become a scientist.  I want to help others also get an education and achieve what they think is success.

“Isidro is a diligent and determined young man who is passionate about making a difference in the world through scientific innovation.”
—Joshua Weintraub, College Advisor and Internship Coordinator, Lighthouse

Marcus Simpson

Oakland Tech
Howard University

My first 16 years were very difficult.  We moved around a lot all across multiple states, often living with other family members.  Towards the end of middle school, I decided to take control of my future and take steps toward a meaningful life.  Sports, school and college-oriented after-school programs provided me with opportunities to gain confidence.  Now that I am on the other side of it, I am particularly interested in political science.  I am motivated to learn how government can be more effective in addressing the needs of the urban poor, the people of my community and the poor of other countries.

“Marcus has a great sense of humor.  Life has not been easy for this young man yet he finds ways to stay positive and inspires others to do the same.”
—Jessica Worshel, College Track

Caurell Titus

McClymonds – BEST
San Jose State

Since a young age, I’ve had a passion for art. When I go to college I will study graphic design.  I plan on giving back to the community by going to local schools and teaching lessons on graphic design. There are a lot of young artists out there who just need a little spark.  The most important thing I’ve learned these past four years is that you can’t be dependent on anyone.  It is up to you to make your own decisions.  From staying on schedule with classes, to meeting deadlines, this prepares us for college and a career later on.

“Caurell has so much potential that is just starting to surface.  He is determined to become a graphic artist and has completed a business plan to pursue this goal.”
—Dr. LuPaulette Taylor, Teacher, BEST

Tien Tran

Fremont – CPAA
UC San Diego

It was a difficult time for me due to my parent’s unemployment.  It caused me to focus on education so I can be successful in life.  I had been feeling that school was too hard and wanted to give up.  These past four years in high school I learned that I am a student who never gives up.  I pushed myself to finish what I had started.  My hard work has paid off.  Right now I want to a mechanical engineer because I have always wondered how things were made.  I know that college will provide me with more options to choose from in my future.

“Tien is well-liked and respected by his peers and faculty.  He has a positive and spirited demeanor. He is a role model both in his academic life as well as in our school community”
—Thea Marston, Teacher, College Prep. and Architecture Academy

Kenia Vanegas

Fremont – CPAA
UC Davis

“Studio” was too elegant a reference for the cramped prison we called home.  When I consider my environment, it is my older sister Fany’s presence that remains constant throughout those memories.  Her example proves that education means success and is an antidote to life’s dramas.  All of the challenges we have faced together have made me stronger, more persistent.  I believe a major in social welfare of psychology would suit me best if my dream is to provide a haven for young people in trouble.  I will call it “Fany’s World.”

“Kenia has a graceful sprit and calmly deals with her considerable challenges.  She faces adversity by quietly going about taking care of her long term goals.
—Daniel Hurst, Principal, College Prep and Architecture Academy

Devin White

Far West
Cornell University

When you look at me you see a tall dark African American male; a unique individual who has been tested time and time again to abandon his individuality.  Stereotypes and biases have tried to shape my personality and force me to conform to society’s norms.  A wise man once said, “my greatest accomplishment is being me no matter where I am.”  I like to wear business attire, because I like the style, not because its what’s fresh.  I get 4.0’s and I’m very serious about my schoolwork, if that makes me a dork or a nerd, so be it.  My dreams are my own and no one else’s.

“I have observed a level of maturity in that he is very focused on learning for both the knowledge and as a tool to help him “graduate” from his inner-city environment.”
—Howard Nathel, Students Run Oakland

Marquisha Williams-Dupree

Envision Academy
UC Merced

When you are a teenager you don’t expect to have the responsibilities of helping raise children.  Some days I would miss school to care for my younger siblings.  I continue to struggle internally because my mom is not present but it is important for me to stay strong so that I will not only receive an education but make sure that my younger siblings will as well.  The most important thing that someone can be is a role model.  This is the world I come from and it has shaped my dreams and aspirations.  It has helped me find my passion for children.

“Marquisha’s greatest asset is her incredible personality.  She enters the classroom eager to learn; with a smile that other students simply cannot help but return.”
—Joe Truss, Teacher, Envision Academy

Miguel Zepeda

Lighthouse Community Charter
Dominican College

I am tired of losing friends to gang violence. Eric’s death made me realize what I desire for my future.  College is the door to my dreams; all I need to do is have the persistence and strength to open it. I want to help my community and make it a safer place.  There are no words to explain how much I miss Eric.  I’m going to have him in my mind to push me into accomplishing my goals.  I don’t want the streets to make me.  College is my dream and will make me into the man I want to be.

“I believe that Miguel has something special to offer the world, with his unique mix of deep care for the community, resilience and academic success.”
—Hilary Yamtich, Math Teacher, Lighthouse Community Charter School

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March 19, 2010

Nonprofits Add Mentoring to Money to Keep Minorities in College

By TRACEY TAYLOR

As college admissions season draws to a close, the spotlight has been on students’ getting a foot in the door. Less attention is paid to how many of today’s high school seniors will emerge a few years down the line with diplomas in hand, and what might cause them to veer off track.

It is much tougher to stay the course in college if you are the first in your family to enroll in college, if you have rarely strayed far from home and if your life is still affected by family problems, be it a jobless parent or an addicted sibling.

At a national level, one student in two enrolling in college earns a degree within six years. In the Bay Area’s most challenged communities, the ratio is far worse. The problem is most acute among young black and Latino men. According to data gathered by the Oakland Unified School District, only 8 percent of black teenagers entering ninth grade will get a bachelor’s degree. Only 34 percent of black male students, and 44 percent of Latino male students who entered the combined University of California and California State University system in 2001 had graduated six years later. The rate for white men was 62 percent.

That statistic, graduation rates, is in the cross hairs of the East Bay College Fund. It is perhaps the most visible of a small but growing number of Bay Area nonprofits that are beginning to make inroads in steering young, at-risk students to college, and also helping them through it. The fund’s method is to supplement financial aid with a carefully administered program of mentoring, peer-to-peer guidance and life-skills training.

Click Here for Link to Full Article

***************************************

Hoops Great Courtney Paris will Share Off-Court Lessons
with East Bay College Fund Scholars

Basketball superstar Courtney Paris returns home on May 19 to give
an off-court assist to 18 East Bay youth who have beaten significant
personal odds while preparing for college.

Paris will speak at the East Bay College Fund’s seventh annual
“Great Expectations Awards” at 6:30 p.m. next Tuesday (5/19) at the
Student Union Building on the campus of Mills College, 5000
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Paris, the Piedmont High standout who became the first four-time All-
American in women’s college basketball, will be the keynote speaker
at the East Bay College Fund’s awards ceremony honoring the 2009
recipients of four-year college scholarships. Expanding her influence
off the court, Paris is an advocate of giving back to one’s community
and a firm believer in the importance of a college education.

Paris recently earned her B.A. in journalism from the University of
Oklahoma and joined the Sacramento Monarchs as a No. 7 selection
in the 2009 WNBA draft. The daughter of former 49ers lineman
Bubba Paris, Courtney Paris has a twin sister, Ashley, who will play
for the Los Angeles Sparks.

The eighteen scholarship recipients, all seniors at Oakland and
Emeryville public high schools, come from low-income households
and communities with historically low college attendance rates. The
majority will be the first in their families to attend a four-year
university. Along with facing financial need, many have experienced
family tragedy and other major hardships.

The East Bay College Fund, a community-based nonprofit, will
provide each recipient with a $16,000, four-year college scholarship,
along with an adult mentor and other support throughout the college
experience.

Andy Fremder, president of the East Bay College Fund, says, “We
are thrilled that Courtney will be there to welcome our new group of
scholars to the East Bay College Fund community. Her
accomplishments and attitude are truly inspiring. Courtney is a
wonderful role model for us all.”

The 2009 scholarship recipients were selected from among 165
applicants. This fall, they will attend such schools as UCLA, UC San
Diego, UC Merced, the University of Oregon, Ohio Wesleyan, San
Jose State, the University of San Francisco, and CSU East Bay.

Along with honoring the incoming class of scholarship recipients, the
East Bay College Fund will celebrate the forthcoming college
graduation of six of its scholars, bringing the total number of Scholar
graduates to seventeen. Since its inception in 2002, the East Bay
College Fund has helped 100 resilient public high school seniors fulfill
their dreams of going to college.

For more information, please visit www.eastbaycollegefund.org

Recent college graduate and basketball superstar COURTNEY PARIS inspired the scholars, families and other attendees with her advice ranging from how to survive the challenges of college to accomplishing one’s dreams.  Courtney was moved by each scholar’s story and assured them they have already shown the drive and resiliency to succeed in the future.

[View with PicLens]

123►

2008 “Great Expectations” Awards Ceremony

On Thursday, May 22 twenty-two outstanding scholars from Oakland and Emeryville public high schools were presented with the Great Expectations Award. Each student will receive a $16,000 scholarship over four years, a personal mentor and a support network to provide guidance during their college years.

2007 “Great Expectations” Awards Ceremony

On Wednesday, May 23, sixteen outstanding scholars from Oakland and Emeryville public high schools were presented with the Great Expectations Award. Each student will receive a $16,000 scholarship over four years, a personal mentor and a support network to provide guidance during their college years.

Beatriz Torres, our first university graduate, gives advice to 2007 award recipients.

Jose Guerrero, Amari Washington, Janice Andrade and Elisa Ortega-Enriquez proudly display their award certificates.

Deashla Miller accepts her scholarship award.

2006 “Great Expectations” Awards Ceremony

On May 24, East Bay College Fund was privileged to present the recipients of our fourth annual awards. Sixteen scholars who successfully prepared themselves for college while overcoming significant personal challenges were each granted a four-year $16,000 scholarship.

2006 Scholarship recipient Karmjit Singh gratefully accepts his award.

Guest speaker, Darrick Smith, Founder and Director of TryUMF, a youth empowerment program in Oakland, delivers an inspiring speech.

Scholar Rakim Johnson celebrates with family members after receiving the award.

Scholarship recipient Brittany Chambers beams as she accepts her award.

2005 “Great Expectations” Awards Ceremony

At its annual awards ceremony on May 25, 2005, East Bay College Fund was privileged to present thirteen recipients with $16,000 4-year Great Expectations scholarships.

2005 Scholar, Burt Jones is interviewed by the Channel 2 News as Lakeisha Richardson, another 2005 Scholar looks on.

2005 Scholar Edith Cruz proudly poses with her parents after receiving her award.

Julie Hadnot, East Bay College Fund mentor delivers an inspiring speech during the ceremony presentations.

2004 “Great Expectations” Awards Ceremony

On May 18, 2004, ten outstanding scholars were granted four-year, $16,000 scholarship awards.

2004 Scholarship recipient, Sam Becerra receives his award from Delores Lemon-Thomas, East Bay College Fund Advisory Council member

2004 Scholarship recipient, Yahya Abdul-Mateen, with his parents and donors.

2003 scholarship recipient, Beatriz Torres (left), celebrates with 2004 Scholar, Luz Gomez

2003 “Great Expectations” Awards Ceremony

In Spring 2003 (its first year), East Bay College Fund awarded scholarships to seven exceptional scholars.

The audience listens to the 2003 Awards presentations

2003 East Bay College Fund Scholar, Tsering Dorjee celebrates with his parents at the awards ceremony

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Karla Burgos

Oakland High School
CSU, East Bay

I have been very fortunate to count on my parents for guidance and support. My parents left their family members in Mexico in order to provide their children with a better opportunity. It is the exception, rather than the norm, when a Latina student goes on to higher education. Despite the harsh environment that surrounds me, I have remained focused on my goals. I am determined to make college a reality. As a future leader I am committed to make a difference in my community by opening new programs to help youth with their school work and also to get them interested in going to college

“Karla is very intelligent, opinionated, motivated, hardworking, and very determined to achieve her goals. Karla is highly dependable, and always ready to learn in any capacity. Her leadership skills are outstanding”

Vincent Kanu
Teacher, Oakland High School

Shavonnee Clark

Oakland Tech
UCLA

In May 2008, I violently lost my father. My father, throughout my life, has been a very encouraging and uplifting figure. My father’s murder reaffirmed the necessity to attain a quality education. During this very dark time in my life I was able to push myself and I realized that my motivation to succeed was too great to be stopped by a situation that was completely out of my control. I have realized that change starts with the individual. I plan to use my education to fix the problems in society that I am determined to escape.

“Shovonee Clark is a leader within her school. She is a role model as a senior mentor and an after school tutor. She is an activist within the community working with organizations to decrease the drop-out rate in Oakland high schools.”

Monique Adorno-Jimenez
EAOP Coordinator, UC Berkeley

Jamal Cole

Castlemont-EOSA
CSU East Bay

I grew up in the southern part of East Oakland, where the community is very complex; it is full of hope, dreams, violence and drugs. I was involved with gangs and used to fight. As I got older I recognized that being involved with gangs was not the right thing to do. Fortunately I had heard that East Oakland Youth Development Center was hiring. I became a Youth Leader, where I was to supervise, motivate and help youth in their classes. The Center is very beneficial for me. I have learned how to be a leader, face responsibilities, and have become motivated to further my education.

“Jamal is a bright shining star from the killer corridor of East Oakland. He needs a chance to see outside of the community he was born into….and quench his thirst for knowledge in the college environment.”

Regina Jackson
Executive Director, East Oakland Youth Development Center

Luz Cuevas

Lighthouse Community Charter School
Dominican University of California

As I look at what makes me unique, I start to think about how I used to put together a puzzle of the United States when I was three years old. Over time, I started figuring out how the pieces would go together. My brain conceptualized the puzzle strategically, methodically, and mathematically. From that point on, math was my passion. Through math, I have learned how to do complex problem solving and how to confidently approach various dilemmas. These are skills that transcend well beyond the classroom. I intend on applying them to my future studies and to contribute to the community.
“ As a student, as an athlete, and as a human being, Angelica has earned my praise and admiration. Angelica is someone who is going to take learning seriously and make it matter..”

Joshua Weintraub
College Counselor, Lighthouse Community Charter High School

Ken Guerrero

Emery Secondary School
UC San Diego

My life-changing experience started in the Philippines playing tag when I was seven. My right leg was severely hurt. I was immobile unable to walk or run. I have experienced pain, quacks, motherly love, and medical specialists along with painkillers, injections, and physical therapy. Finally, I was diagnosed at UCSF medical hospital as having a form of juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. My experiences have become a driving force behind my commitment to become a pediatrician. I can find no greater satisfaction than helping handicapped children to be able to participate with their peers in recreational activities. To relieve their pain would truly be fulfilling act.

” Ken is going to succeed in college come rain or come shine. He is unlikely to lose his sense of direction or hesitate to achieve his goals. I regard his college graduation as an inevitability. He is unfailingly reliable. I will miss him.”

David VonTerStegge
Spanish Teacher, Emeryville Unified School District

Charles Hill, Jr.

Street Academy
UC Merced

My father was killed by the police at the age of 26; he was fatally shot down after an officer mistakenly assumed he had a gun. I never let the experience destroy my life. My mother was extremely strong, always wanting the best for her children. Being the man of the house, I made sure my siblings were prepared for school and had someone to look up to. I have struggled not to become the stereotypical minority. Instead, I have become a very well educated young man, determined to better his life and make an impact on others, with my career as a surgeon.

“Since I have known him, Charles has consistently been focused on pursuing a career in the sciences, possibly as a surgeon. He has a strong sense of purpose and is focused on doing what he needs to succeed.”

Betsy Schulz
Biology/ Consulting Teacher, Street Academy

Darion Jefferson

McClymonds-BEST
San Jose State University

Life to me is all about lessons. Once you’ve learned a lesson, you move to a higher level with higher difficulty, sort of like a game–except with out any restarts. I grew up living and taking notes from my mom, older sister and brother, both positive and negative. My sister is the one who kept me on track academically. Throughout my whole football career my brother always taught me that if I want it, I got to be hungry enough to go get it. The one thing that pushes me the most is when he says that I’m the family’s hope for us having better lives.

“Darion has challenged himself by taking AP Coursework, college business courses, and by making education a top priority in his life. He strives to improve his personal best.”

Marsha Rhynes
English Teacher, McClymonds – BEST

Ana Lopez

Oakland Unity
Cal Poly San Luis Obispo

When I was nine years old my parents’ separation forced my mother and I to immigrate to the United States with my family. It has been eight years, and since then I have not seen or received a single phone call from my father. This has been hard for me, but it has motivated me to become someone in life and to grow more independent. One recent tragedy that helped me identify my true passion was the unexpected death of my brother-in-law. I want to become a civil engineer. I can use my knowledge to make things safer so unnecessary accidents can be stopped..

“ Over the summer, Ana attended Smith College Science and Engineering program. It was in this program that Ana truly blossomed. She was able to apply her strong work ethic and her inquisitive and tenacious nature to explore a new field.”

Shria Tomlinson
College Affairs Director, College Track

Tyrone Radford

Castlemont-CBITS
University of Oregon

I lived with my grandmother since I was 4. Unfortunately, my grandma had a stroke and it left her paralyzed. I helped my grandmother by cooking, cleaning, giving her medicine…. I did all of these tasks while playing sports, volunteering and still maintaining a 3.5 grade point average. My godparents push me to my full potential because they know what I am capable of. I enjoy having them in my life because I learn something new from them everyday. I want to give back to the community by starting my own summer football youth camp. I love to work with younger kids.

“He is an extremely powerful role model to young people in this community because of his athletic talents, his good-natured personality, and his intelligence and drive to succeed.”

Elizabeth Vlasses
Teacher, Castlemont — CBITS

Kristal Raheem

Fremont – CPAA
Sonoma State University

I have put all of my love and energy into education and learning. I am the only girl from my school who was admitted into the Summer Legal Fellowship program at the UC Berkeley School of Law. I learned about civil law and gained confidence about becoming a lawyer. Education is my nutrition. I will be the first child out of five to graduate high school. It’s difficult for a flower to blossom properly with damaged roots and neglect, but it is not impossible.

“Simply put, this is an exceptional young person. Kristal performed in our office at a level that I would not have expected from a high school student. Kristal has enormous potential, based on her intelligence, motivation, resilience and integrity.”

Paul Kranz
Lawyer, Law Offices of Paul Kranz

Asha Richardson

Oakland School for the Arts
Mills College

I have been writing as long as I can remember. I can not count the number of half-filled journals and sketchbooks with poetry about divorcing parents, being a little black girl and changing the world around me. Writing allows me to express all my secrets without judgment. In 11th grade I joined Youth Radio, the premier Youth Media Outlet in the country. It has taught me several key lessons: everything can be revised, a story can have multiple meanings, and my opinion is valid. I desire the ability to produce stories that can help people, create change for the better, and evoke hope for everyone.

“This student is a joy to be around. Asha’s manner of handling all of her challenges is remarkable and she is an excellent investment in leadership development for her community and the country.”

Javon-Demetrius Cogman
Dean of Student Affairs, Oakland School for the Arts

Paul Rodriguez

Castlemont-EOSA
San Francisco State

As an immigrant, I have faced significant challenges. During my junior year I was shot after track practice. After the cars drove away I dragged myself to nearby apartments and they called the police. My dreams of going to college often seem so far away. People discourage me but I am set on being the first person to go to college in my family and to begin a new tradition. I am living with my father. My mother is in Mexico, I have not seen her in five years. Yet, instead of focusing on this, I take control of the things I can: my education, social justice and acting.

“Unfortunately, many of our students are victims of or witnesses to violence in our community; Paul is an example of not only surviving, but of manifesting the desire to succeed.”

Fatima Ghatala
Teacher, Castlemont—EOSA

Angelica Rubi Munoz

MetWest
CSU Northridge

My mother once told me that a person’s hands could tell the story of their life. She encouraged me to use my hands to manifest my ideas. She demonstrated to me what it meant to be a leader and community activist. I have learned to live beyond her hands. I choose to have a connection with my mother still in my everyday choices, in my passion for social justice and in my promise to her to do well for myself and for others.

“More than any other student I have encountered in my years in Oakland, Angelica has a clear vision of how a liberal arts education can help prepare one for a productive life of social change.”

Greg Cluster
Advisor, Met West High School

Jeffrey Scott

Fremont-CPAA
Sacramento State University

I am different than the statistical Black male. I dress myself as an individual. I want to stand out, not in a way that would attract negative attention, but in a way that will cause people to see that I want to become somebody. There was a specific event with a friend that made me realize that we were going in completely different directions. The words of my parents struck me, “Walking away doesn’t make you a punk”. These I was able to walk away from this situation that could have had a dangerous impact on my life. I decided to stay on the right path, the path to success.

“Jeffrey is witty, kind, analytical and humble. He is a wonderful positive role model to our younger black male students”

Johanna Paraiso
Literature Teacher, College Prep and Architecture Academy

Emely Srimoukda

Fremont-Media College Prep
CSU Chico

The only person working to support the family was my mother. As my father’s health conditions worsened, my mom lost her job along with our house. Neither of my parents speaks English, so I became their translator and was forced to leave school. When we moved from Idaho to California, I enrolled to start my junior year. I went from losing everything to becoming a leader within the school. Getting a chance to start over in California allowed me to see what is important in life. I know I am becoming the woman my mom will be proud of, but most importantly the woman I will be proud of.

“A student as bright, committed, forward-thinking, and hardworking as Emely deserves to be aided at every step of her journey toward success.”

Candice Valenzuela
English Teacher, Fremont- Media College Prep

Andrew Wilson

MetWest
Ohio Wesleyan University

When I left the pristine landscape of Southwestern Academy (Arizona), the mirage of freedom, I regained my voice. When I got back home I vowed never to let the voice of students go unheard. To this day I am living up to that promise. This year I am President of All City Council and I am helping to foster positive change through policy enforcement in the Oakland Unified School District. As a result of taking this new honor and opportunity I have realized that I want to bring this drive and energy to my studies, and to my future college

“Andrew is driven by his passion to create change for Oakland youth, and takes great initiative to speak to whoever is necessary, and do whatever is necessary to accomplish a specific goal or project.”

Raquel Jimenez
Student Engagement Specialist, OUSD

Alejandro Zepeda

Lighthouse Community Charter School
University of San Francisco

Most people look at me now and assume that I got the scars from being in a fight or being stabbed. Although I have to go through life with these scars, they are an ever-present reminder of an important lesson: Appreciate the things you have, but most importantly, never stay down or give up without trying. Prior to my accident, I hadn’t given much thought into what my passions were. Now I’ve decided to prove to everyone who doubts me that I can accomplish my dreams of working in the finance industry. Regardless of what happens, I know that I will rise every time I fall.

“Alejandro Zepeda is an investment worth making. He understands the power and responsibility of being an informed citizen in our world and is clear about the role of higher education in this process.”

Drea Beale
Humanities Teacher, Lighthouse Community Charter High School

For news coverage:

Oakland Tribune feature

ABC 7 News story

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Class is part of Berkeley Engaged Scholarship Initiative (BESI)

This fall, Board Member, Prof Tom Gold of UC Berkeley’s Sociology  Department, and mentor Maria Hollowell-Fuentes, a PhD candidate in the Sociology Department, taught an undergraduate seminar on “East Bay Non-Profits Working to Improve Access and Transition to Higher Education” as part of the Berkeley Engaged Scholarship Initiative. The 22 students volunteered for one of five organizations: East Bay College Fund, Think College Now, East Bay Consortium, Marcus Foster Education Fund,  or Stiles Hall. On December 10, they held a capstone event where students presented the results of their internships as well as their thinking about higher education, non-profits, and volunteering. The webcast is available on the UC Berkeley website www.webcast.berkeley.edu and Youtube.

Andy Fremder and East Bay College Fund Receive Jefferson Award

Click here to see coverage.–March 4, 2009

Thanks to your efforts and on-going dedication, East Bay College Fund has been recognized for its success supporting young people in our community.  East Bay College Fund President Andy Fremder is the recipient of the Jefferson Award for his  commitment to helping low income students from Oakland and Emeryville fulfill their dreams of a college education.

“Jefferson Awards recipients are ordinary people who do extraordinary things without expectation of recognition or reward. By honoring the Jefferson Award recipients, it is the goal of the American Institute for Public Service to inspire others to become involved in community and public service. The Jefferson Awards is the nation’s largest media partnership highlighting service to America.”  (CBS5 website) Of winning the Jefferson Award, Andy says “Personal recognition feels nice, but even better is the opportunity it provides to help spread the word about East Bay College Fund.  We are a grass roots organization, and our success is dependent on continued support of passionate board members, donors and committed volunteers.”

CBS Reporter Sharon Chin spoke with Andy, 2004 Scholar Yahya Abdul-Mateen,  Mentor Jim Saavedra and East Bay College Fund Executive Director, Michele Davenport for the special television segment.

For more information on the Jefferson Award visit: Jeffersonawards.org