There were about 30 applicants. Twelve were selected to be interviewed, the number then was pared down to three; George Lazaro Zamata, Yasmin Soares and Maggie Nelson.
Steve Hedges gave away the first award in the amount of $15,000 (Arseneault/Faucher Memorial Scholarship) to George Lazaro Zamata. George moved to the US from Peru with his family only three years ago not knowing a word of English. He enrolled in the English Language Learner program at Nashua South and by the end of his first year, he tested out of the program with nearly a perfect score on the proficiency test. He was a member of the National Honor Society and took an active role in helping other Hispanic and non-English-speaking students at this school. He joined the school’s Latino Club, moving from member to President in 3 years. This fall he will be attending York University in the UK where he will pursue a degree in International Business Management. One of his goals is to help young people from Latin American and other economically disadvantaged countries realize their full potential. George remarked on the kindness he has received as an immigrant, thanked his parents and said that his father is his inspiration.
Nick Coffey awarded the second scholarship in the amount of $12,500 to Yasmin Soares, a student at Nashua North. Yasmin’s parents immigrated 20 years ago from Brazil seeking opportunity. She will be attending Worcester Poly Tech studying Chemical Engineering and commented that she is sincerely honored, this award truly makes a difference for her.
Paige awarded the final scholarship to Maggie Nelson from Nashua North, also in the amount of $12,500. Maggie’s dedication to academic excellence, community service and leadership truly sets her apart. Four years ago, as an incoming Freshman, she co-founded the Souhegan Valley Interact Club and served as its Vice-President. Under her leadership, the club organized numerous impactful community service events such as the Turkey Day Giveaway, End 68 Hours of Hunger and the Bridges Memory Care Window Painting event. She is also involved in the student Athletic Leadership Council, National Honor Society and Student Council. Maggie plans to pursue a double major at UNH in education and psychology.