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At Cabrillo EDC, we firmly believe in the power of education and its ability to transform lives. We understand that financial constraints can hinder a student’s pursuit of a high-quality education. We offer a solution through the Rodney Fernandez Leadership Fund. Through the scholarship fund, we have supported many exceptional students who would have otherwise struggled to pay for their education.

Because of your support, we have made a tangible difference in the lives of young people in our community. We are thrilled to celebrate their achievements and share the inspiring stories of some past scholarship recipients who have thrived academically and professionally with the help of the fund.

Julie Revelez received the Rodney Fernandez Leadership Fund scholarship during her time at the University of San Francisco, where she graduated with a major in Sociology and a minor in Spanish Studies. The scholarship eased the financial burdens of her education and allowed her to focus on her studies. Today, Julie is employed with the Mental Health Association of San Francisco, serving as a peer counselor for the CA Warmline. Her dedication to providing emotional support and resources to those in need is truly commendable. Julie’s success is a testament to the impact that scholarships can have on shaping future leaders in the field of mental health.

Emily Phelps, another scholarship recipient, successfully completed her bachelor’s degree in animal science from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. The Rodney Fernandez Leadership Fund gave her the financial security and confidence to embark on her college journey. Today, Emily works as an intern at a prestigious thoroughbred racehorse breeding farm in Kentucky. Her story exemplifies how scholarships can empower students to pursue their passions and forge a path toward a successful career.

In December 2022, Karina successfully graduated with a bachelor’s degree from Channel Islands. The Rodney Fernandez Leadership Fund Scholarship, played a crucial role in her educational journey, providing the necessary support to overcome financial barriers and thrive academically. Karina’s commitment and dedication throughout her undergraduate studies have propelled her toward further success in the field of education.

Karina’s passion for teaching and making a difference in the lives of young learners has led her to pursue a credential degree in Elementary Education. With the support of the Rodney Fernandez Leadership Fund Scholarship, Karina is empowered to continue her educational journey and acquire the necessary skills and knowledge to become an outstanding educator. The scholarship’s impact extends beyond Karina’s undergraduate degree, opening doors for her to make a lasting impact in the field of education.

Mireya Avila is an ambitious individual dedicated to pursuing a career in healthcare. With a strong focus on education, she has applied to several Nursing Programs and out-of-state Masters in Physician Assistance programs. Currently, Mireya works as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) at Oxnard Manor in Oxnard, CA, where she actively contributes to patient care. In addition to her professional commitments, she also serves as a Peer Mentor, assisting first-generation freshmen at CSU Channel Islands to transition into higher education smoothly. The RFLF scholarship supported Mireya’s academic journey. Recently, on May 2, 2023, she proudly graduated from Cal State Channel Islands with a Bachelor of Science degree in Health Science, the first in her family to do so. The RFLF scholarship played a crucial role in enabling her to pay for essential class materials, textbooks, and lab expenses, ensuring her successful graduation and paving the way for her future endeavors in the healthcare field.

The RFLF Scholarship played a crucial role in Denise’s educational journey. It provided the necessary funds for her undergraduate education and enabled her to graduate without any debt. As a result, she was able to focus on her studies fully and did not have to work while in college. Recently, she successfully completed UC Berkeley’s Teacher Education Program, earning an MA in Teaching Education and a multiple-subject teaching credential.

Throughout her time in the program, Denise actively participated in the Student California Teachers Association and served as a state council representative at CTA’s state council. Now that she has completed her education, she is excited to pursue a teaching career in Ventura County.

The RFLF scholarship helped cover Alondra’s housing fees during her freshman year at UCI. Apart from the typical concerns that students face when transitioning from high school to college, she was also stressed about how to afford everything, including on-campus housing. Thanks to the RFLF scholarship, she was able to pay for housing and concentrate on her studies. Since receiving the RFLF scholarship, she has continued her education at UCI. Recently, she achieved a lifelong dream by being accepted into UCI’s nursing program, and she graduated with her BSN this spring. She has now returned to Oxnard and is actively seeking employment at a local hospital. She is enthusiastic about commencing her nursing career and wants to express her gratitude to all those who have supported her throughout her journey!

Juan Hernandez, a data analyst for the Navy, received support from the Rodney Fernandez Leadership Fund while pursuing a master’s degree. The scholarship significantly contributed to his academic journey.. Juan’s success is a testament to the impact scholarships can have on students’ career growth and professional development. By reducing the financial burden, the scholarship enabled Juan to focus on his studies, ultimately leading to his successful career as a data analyst.

The stories of these outstanding scholarship recipients, Julie Revelez, Emily Phelps, Karina Ibara, Mireya Avila, Denise Castro, Alondra Quintal, and Juan Hernandez, each highlight the transformative power of the Rodney Fernandez Leadership Fund. By providing financial assistance, the fund has enabled these students to pursue their educational dreams and reach new heights in their chosen fields. These success stories inspire us to continue supporting deserving students with exceptional potential who face financial barriers. Your support of the Rodney Fernandez Leadership Fund can help us make a lasting difference in the lives of future Cabrillo EDC students, empowering them to achieve their dreams and create a positive impact in their communities.