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Scholarship Recipients

Congratulations 2025 PFLAG SDC Scholarship Recipients!

Mary Wagner Memorial Scholarship

Donor: Marilyn & Art Carpenter

Benjamin C. Kennedy | he/him

Benjamin C. Kennedy is a transgender author, educator, and activist. He’s a PhD candidate in Education Studies at UCSD, where his research focuses on equity policy for marginalized students, international education comparison, and helping educators create affirming curriculum and classrooms. He’s a national facilitator with Welcoming Schools, a Board Member for Alliance for TransYouth Rights and Advocates 4 Trans Equality, and a youth mentor at San Diego Pride. Ben has been published in six books, many academic journals, HuffPost, NPR, and more. Outside of academics, he’s a competitive hybrid athlete and has fostered nearly 250 neonatal kittens and other orphaned wildlife with his wife Becca.

John Bessemer Memorial Scholarship

Donors: PFLAG San Diego County Scholarship Fund, Scott Bernard

Shyla Mighdoll | she/her

Shyla Mighdoll is an incoming freshman at UC Davis, where she plans to study Global Disease Biology and Public Health on the pre-med track. As President of the PALS peer leadership program, Shyla focused on educational outreach to promote mental health awareness and create safe spaces for all students, especially LGBTQ+ youth and others who are often underrepresented. She helped organize her school’s National Eating Disorders Awareness Walk and presented original research on peer support and student wellness to district leadership. Balancing two jobs to support herself financially, Shyla is committed to continuing this work through college and into her future in healthcare.

In the realm of public health, I am devoted to implementing a new approach to how we treat eating disorders in a school setting, clinical setting, and workplace setting. During my work to promote the NEDA (National Eating Disorder Awareness) walk, my conversations with my teachers and classmates highlighted a gap in the current education system. I am committed to taking a public health approach by educating students about various triggers to eating disorders, such as negative talk around bodies, which may increase one’s susceptibility to having an eating disorder, and taking a community approach to the issue at hand.

For the last two years, I have organized Torrey Pines High School’s first, and now annual, National Eating Disorder Awareness (NEDA) walk as a Peer Assistance Leader (PAL). I planned this for February because it is “Eating Disorder Awareness Month”,  which stands for decreasing the stigma of misinformation that surrounds eating disorders. As well as this, February stands for increasing education for the general public and those who are struggling. I reached out to the NEDA foundation in the fall of my junior year. I received their full endorsement to continue my plans for the walk. This included speaking with representatives and getting advice on how to fundraise for the charity. The Torrey Pines High School board members promoted the walk through interviews on the principal’s live broadcast. Additionally, I was interviewed on the Torrey Pines film network, called FalconVision. On February 24 last year, guests were encouraged to wear lilac, the color that stands for eating disorder awareness. My support through the school board provided funding to purchase lilac brooches for each individual who walked. I also connected with Torrey Pines’ beloved school counselors for on-site support, should any walk participant seek additional information or help. I stationed PALs at various tables lining the walk with QR codes and cards that contained information about resources and obtaining assistance from professionals. The beginning of the event included three speakers: a San Diego dietician, and a senior PAL, and I spoke to connect and encourage the crowd to fight for more awareness about eating disorders. While the speeches briefly touched upon our personal experiences, they primarily focused on community initiatives and statistics regarding eating disorders. The walk was mapped with lilac tape around the school, and those in attendance were encouraged to walk the trail as many times as they wished.

We raised money for NEDA and over 100 students, staff, and community members participated. My main goal in developing the NEDA walk was to challenge the toxic culture around body shaming and the stigma of eating disorders in my school and community. This experience has reinforced the importance of advocacy and fueled my desire to create a more understanding and supportive community by starting important conversations and helping those who are unable to speak for themselves. Furthermore, my reflections on this walk have only affirmed my desire to pursue a healthcare and public health career. My experience as a PAL has given me valuable insights into public health as I have learned which demographics are at higher risk, environmental triggers for various groups, mental health issues, and the importance of diversity in progressing society.

Looking ahead, I plan to continue taking initiative and leadership roles in public health projects, particularly through mental health advocacy. Organizing the NEDA walk has gifted me a deeper understanding of the environmental and social factors that contribute to mental health struggles. It also taught me the importance of collaboration through working with school administration, local businesses, and community members. I have learned valuable skills in event planning, fundraising, and outreach that I am excited to apply in the future. While I am unsure what I am going to get involved in next, I do know that I will continue to be a change-maker to instill large-scale understanding.

My role as an educator and community member enables me to use my past experiences to shape the trajectory of understanding and empathy in my community. I will continue to advocate for those struggling and inspire others to join the fight for an open-minded society.

Rob Benzon Memorial Scholarship

Donor: Rob Benzon/Dan Ferbal Foundation

Dylan M. C. Baker | They/Them

Dylan is currently a History Major and LGBTQ+ Studies Minor at San Diego State University. While attending Cuesta College Dylan was the founder and first president of the Cuesta Pride Club. Dylan has been envolved in preserving and uplifting LGBTQ+ history in California during their work with the Central Coast Queer Archive Project. Dylan primarily focuses on North American, Middle Eastern, Queer history and their intersectionality. Dylan will be graduating SDSU with their BA in Fall 2025. Dylan is hoping to pursue a masters in History or Public Policy with the eventual goal of teaching and working in local politics.

Before answering the two questions, I would like to explain briefly who I am: I’m originally from Virginia but grew up outside Sacramento.  I grew up a conservative Christian Homeschool kid and was indoctrinated with ideas that made me hate myself and want to kill myself.  It took me years to stop hating myself for being gay and nonbinary.  Due to the high cost of living, I am forced to live with my parents in a place where I cannot be myself.

Question One

After seeking out any LGBTQ+ group or activities at my community college and only finding a basic webpage, I decided that something needed to be done. In response, I became the founder and first president of Cuesta Pride.  This was in September of 2020, and I had only come out to my family two months prior.  I began by creating a letter stating my intent and sought teachers willing to sponsor my letter.  While I was waiting for responses, I began writing the club’s constitution.

It took a wee bit, but some people were interested in the club, and they would become officers.  I found two teachers willing to be Cuesta Pride’s advisors.  The club constitution I wrote was approved on October 16, and the next week I would go before the school senate to get approval.  While I had expected the club to be approved without issue, that was not the case.  I was required to explain why there is a need for an LGBTQ+ club and why it should be approved.  After a long and tenuous debate in which I had to fight to make a place for the LGBTQ+ community at Cuesta College, a vote was called.  I could feel my heart racing, and it was a very close call.  It only passed by one vote.  On October 22, 2020, Cuesta Pride became an official club.  It had been over a decade since a club like it had existed.

The club had weekly meetings but I knew much more was needed to make a mark.  I had Cuesta Pride start to work with the GALA Pride and Diversity Center in San Luis Obispo.  With their help, Cuesta Pride was able to get a column in their newsletter and spread the word about the club.  I decided to start a podcast series looking at LGBTQ+ history and rights in other nations and conduct interviews with local LGBTQ+ people.  Covid did not allow the club to meet in person; we would have weekly meetings and watch parties.

One of the club’s biggest goals was and still is to make a rainbow visible at the Cuesta Campus.  I and other members began trying to make this happen the day after the club was approved, but it was an uphill battle.  Our first proposal was a rainbow flag on campus.  That was rejected outright.  We then switched to proposing a mural, and at first, it looked good, but what ended up happening was that the location we requested was rejected.  Instead, the school said it could go in a different area that was less visible and would be partially blocked by cement cylinders.  With enough public pressure, Cuesta relented and allowed a mural but was still visually blocked by those cylinders.  After some time running Cuesta Pride, I decided to pass the mantel of president onto the club’s vice president.  I did this so I could focus on my academics and deal with some family issues.

Stephen G. Bowersox Memorial Scholarship

Donors: Jim & Donna Bowersox

Abigail Deckert | she/her

Abby is a graduating senior from Santana High School, and is planning on studying Environmental Policy at the University of California, Berkeley in the fall. As the Climate Action Club founder/president and Youth v. Oil Campaign lead with SanDiego350, she led successful efforts to pass oil setback protections, mobilize youth for protests, and push climate policy through city councils. Passionate about using policy as a tool for justice, Abby is committed to a career advancing bold, community-driven solutions to the climate crisis.

STEM Scholarship

Donor: STEM, Jim Ziegler

Alice Kuznetsov | they/them

Alice is part of the 2025 graduating class from San Pasqual High School, planning to major in Electrical Engineering and Computer Sciences at UC Berkeley. Over the last 4 years, they’ve been their FIRST Robotics team’s lead programmer and president, programming eight robots specializing in vision, state machines, and coordinate geometry. When they’re not debugging code or overseeing team operations, they coordinate research and outreach as the secretary of their Computer Science Honors Society, breaking down STEM barriers in Escondido and eliminating stereotypical stigmas in K-9 schools. Looking toward the future, Alice hopes to stay involved in STEM outreach at their university while exploring their passion in robotics.

STEM Scholarship

Donor: STEM

Danica Bonds | she/her

My name is Danica Bonds, and I am a graduating senior from Escondido High School, planning to major in computer science and linguistics. I served as president of my high school’s GSA club, and I look forward to continuing to be an active member of the LGBTQIA+ community in the future. As a computer scientist, I believe that I can make a difference in people’s lives by breaking down barriers, improving communication among those who speak different languages, and improving accessibility.

STEM Scholarship

Donor: STEM

Jocelyn Martinez | she/her

Being a recipient for this scholarship means so much to me. The award money will help me cover my tuition so I can continue to pursue my degree in aerospace engineering. I grew up playing sports. I learned that to win, you win as a team. Therefore, you are only as strong as your weakest player. To help players develop, you find ways to strengthen their skills. I learned about mentorship through my time in the Marine Corps. I took these life lessons and got involved with the STEM Exito program, which focuses on assisting Latinx STEM students with the support to guide them through their academic journey. I hope to continue to use my experience to help others.

STEM Scholarship

Donor: STEM

Tsion-Aduesa Smart | she/they

Tsion-Aduesa is a second-year student at San Diego Mesa College, majoring in Mathematics. She plans to transfer to UC Berkeley to continue her studies and pursue a career in Actuarial Science. Tsion-Aduesa is passionate about using mathematical tools to solve real-world problems, especially in fields like insurance, risk management, and renewable energy. She is deeply interested in sustainability and distributed energy resources, and is committed to exploring data-driven solutions for a cleaner, more equitable future. Outside the classroom, she works as a peer mentor, and also enjoys dancing, fashion, bold makeup, and organizing fun, engaging events for her community.

Kendall Family Memorial Scholarship

Donors: Terrie Vorono & Lonnie Brunini

Brayden Pape | she/they

I am a first-year developmental psychology major at UCSD minoring in ASL. I hope to become a clinical child psychologist specializing in the care of LGBTQIA+, unsheltered, and foster children and youth. I serve as an advisor to two youth-led nonprofits, one of which I founded in 2021. I’ve been involved in various advocacy efforts to bring visibility to the queer community this past year, and I enjoy volunteering at The Center and at PATH San Diego during school breaks.

Whether it’s 63 BCE in Rome when Cicero decried the demagogue Catiline, or 2024 CE in the United States when the demagogue Donald Trump was elected president, I (too) echo Cicero’s lament through the words of English historian Charles Duke Yonge: “Shame on this age and on its lost principles!”

It’s hard to imagine that roughly ten months before the presidential election I rang in the New Year looking forward to the milestones 2024 would bring: graduating high school, finally turning eighteen, and starting college. When the Heritage Foundation’s Project 2025 videos leaked to the public, however, anger, frustration, and fear quickly replaced optimism. The blatant demonization of the LGBTQ+ community, my community, seemed to prophesize what was to come. Refusing to yield, I (too) got to work to protect what we have achieved together as a community.

Although my community advocacy and activism up to that point had mainly focused on equity in education, youth empowerment, and eliminating food- and housing insecurity, I started to focus more on LGBT causes after the leak. I continued to advocate for my queer community through high school speech and debate, culminating in “Not A Choice!” (my performance calling for LGBTQ education in our schools) finaling in several tournaments in the Program Oral Interpretation event. A week after my eighteenth birthday, I proudly carried a San Diego Pride Founding Leadership flag in the 50th San Diego Pride Parade. During my first quarter at UCSD, I worked as a (returning) member of Mayor Gloria’s “Todd Squad” to re-elect a gay man to the city’s top job. Although my college workload and two part-time jobs kept me from volunteering at the San Diego LGBTQ Center (“The Center”) during the fall quarter, I made a beeline to The Center after my last final to help set up for the “Come Home for the Holidays” event. Thereafter, I volunteered at least once a week during winter break to assist with events such as the Congregate Meal Program, Project Trans Holiday Party, and the End of Year Phone Banking Campaign. Importantly, I stepped up every time the Volunteer Services Manager Jesus Sanchez asked for extra help. To cap off the break, I participated in a filming to promote the San Diego Foundation’s launching of the National Rainbow College Fund in California, at the conclusion of which I was invited to participate in media interviews relating to the event.

I continue to empower youth despite my busy college schedule. Until my high school graduation in June 2024, I was the CEO of “The PATH Interscholastic Leadership Team” or “PILT” – the 501(c)(3) nonprofit I founded as a sophomore. PILT’s mission is to rally K-12 schools in San Diego County to assist unsheltered adults and teens in collaboration with other nonprofits. Now, as an advisor to the new CEO and executive committee, I watch with pride as a new generation of K-12 students continue the work I started. I’m also the advisor to another youth-led nonprofit, “Empowered Youth Allies Against Cancer,” or “EYAAC,” which seeks to support children living with cancer. I assisted the eighth-grade founder of EYAAC with state and federal filings to launch EYAAC as a student-run nonprofit. I also continued to volunteer at PATH San Diego until I started college and was featured in PATH’s 2024 holiday campaign.

In recognition of my work, I was chosen as the third place winner by the Bill of Rights Institute’s national “My Impact Challenge” on July 3, 2024. Unexpectedly thereafter on July 15, I received a certificate of Special Congressional Recognition from Congresswoman Sara Jacobs for my efforts to empower youth to end homelessness. Then, on July 23, ABC10 News aired a segment featuring an initiative I led to collect Chromebooks for unhoused Veterans, and in September 2024, the San Diego Padres recognized me as a “Tony Gwynn Community All-Star” at a pre-game celebration at Petco Park.

Through my various community activities since elementary school, I’ve repeatedly proven that my plans always follow resolute actions. I’ve wanted to become a child psychologist since I was ten, identifying LGBTQ+ and unsheltered youth as my future clients as I came to terms with my sexuality and gender identity. Although I was admitted to many top-tier psychology programs in the country, I chose to remain in San Diego for personal reasons: San Diego is my community; it’s where I belong; it’s where I feel safe as a person receiving gender affirming care, and it’s where I’m able to help my mom care for my dad. Although initially I intended on the clinical psychology specialization at UCSD, I changed my focus to developmental psychology to study how, when, and the extent to which children first internalize bias, prejudice, and privilege. Although I speak fluent German and learned French in high school, I chose American Sign Language (ASL) as my minor so I could provide care to deaf and hard of hearing children in the future. This is because there are only a few ASL-fluent mental health professionals in San Diego although there are many who are fluent in several spoken languages. (A quick search on psychologytoday.com produced only three in the entire county!) Therefore, a PFLAG scholarship would get me closer to my goal of becoming a child psychologist by easing my financial burden that includes almost $13,000 to attend the Sign Languages Global Seminar in Paris this summer, which fulfills two courses required for the ASL language studies minor.

The next four years will be tough for our queer community. We will be demonized, and our rights blatantly violated. In these shameful times with their lost principles (to paraphrase Yonge), apathy and inaction are not options. We must continue to invoke the spirit of Harvey Milk and others to keep fighting for what is rightfully ours – our right to the protections, rights, and privileges granted to others based on their sexuality and gender identity.”

M. Lynne Austin Memorial Scholarship

Donors: Ray & Jan Aller

Felicia Tisnado-Nykaza | she/her

Felicia brings a powerful perspective shaped by her identity as a first-generation college student, daughter of an immigrant, and proud mother of a trans son. Her educational path has required significant perseverance, culminating in her upcoming transfer from Grossmont Community College (Associate’s in Psychology) to San Diego State University. At SDSU, Felicia will major in LGBTQ+ Studies along with Counseling and Social Change. Her academic pursuits are driven by a commitment to advocate for and support marginalized communities, with a particular focus on LGBTQ+ youth and their families. She is a dedicated future professional, eager to apply her knowledge and passion for community betterment.

I feel like my whole life has been leading to work devoted to the LGBTQIAP+ community. I do have older relatives who have been in the community, and I feel like I am just taking up the torch. For one, my uncle, Thom Ferran used to do big annual fundraisers for the San Diego chapter AIDS Foundation. I had stepped back from school to help him in his final days with his battle with AIDS. Years later, I am still doing work to make it possible for the LGBTQ+ community to have a better and safer future.

Now I am raising a queer, trans child, and what started as just working my best to be the best advocate for him became a discovery of my own pansexuality and a much broader sense of urgency in advocating. I see how things, especially in this current climate, affect all those under the rainbow, and I want to lend my voice and my platforms to getting resources, calls to action, and education out there. I offer my house as a safe space for all my “”gaybies”” (my kiddo’s queer friends) – a space for them to all be themselves openly and safely.

I have become the “”soccer mom”” of the queer kids, getting them plugged into all the LGBTQ+ Youth events (Rainbow Spaces’ Prom, S.D. Pride Youth, S.D. Pride, Trans Family Services’ Boo Bash, etc.) to see the joy in the community, not just the struggles. I have even been known to speak on panels, educating parents and educators on the importance of their support, like the PFLAG’s Panel at the Equity Conference.

With all that said, I plan to continue my fight. The reason why I returned to school was to get the education to back my words and make me a better advocate. Funny thing is, last semester a student and my professor really affirmed this. I had a classmate come up to me and thank me for sharing my knowledge in “Intro to LGBTQ+ Studies” at Grossmont Community College. It brought me to tears. The professor of the class, Anna Buckley, had already been pushing me and telling me over and over again how I could be doing her job, educating the next generation. Last fall semester was really the last confirmation I needed. What was a spark is now a blaze. This is my passion, this is my reason. This is what I am meant to do.

So far, I have been accepted to 3 out of 4 universities I have applied to so far, all under the Psychology Major. I am currently waiting patiently to hear back from San Diego State University, where I applied for their LGBTQ+ program. No matter the school, I plan to marry LGBTQ+ Studies and Psychology to be even more available to advocate for queer youth.”

Daniel J. Ferbal Memorial Scholarship

Donor: Rob Benzon/Dan Ferbal Foundation

Jorge Chavez Diaz De Leon | he/him/el

I’m proudly a current first-generation college student at SDSU, majoring in Social Work. As a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community and a participant in the Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) which is dedicated to support first gen and low-income students, coming from a Mexican family, I strive to bridge cultural gaps and create inclusive spaces for all. This scholarship makes me feel heard, seen, and noticed knowing we are never alone and we can always fight for what we want for our future. I will use my education to make a positive impact in my community, empower others, and promote social justice. I am passionate about working with diverse populations.

In recent years I got out of the Marine Corps and have been trying to find my place in the world. Although it was a difficult transition out of the military, I have since gone back to school to pursue a degree in aerospace engineering. My first semester at San Diego Miramar College, I didn’t quite know what I was doing. I got involved with the STEM Exito program and became an ambassador. The STEM Exito program is a federally funded Title V program that focuses on assisting Latinx STEM students with a supportive and structured environment that guides them through their academic journey, ensuring they have the resources and support needed to succeed. As ambassadors we are trying to create a comunidad (community) in which Hispanic students feel like at home. We want this to be a safe space for all but with an emphasis on Hispanic STEM students since that is what the Title V funding is for. Another one of my roles as an ambassador is the research/internship and scholarship resources. I was able to create a webpage table, listing internships/ research opportunities and scholarships that I have researched myself. The web listing is published on our Comunidad Canvas shell which is managed by all ambassadors. I am also the lead ambassador on this year’s Miramar Summer Research Program (2025 Pathway to STEM Success). I work with faculty to help create research opportunities for Miramar students. My main role is to promote the program, recruit students, collect data throughout the duration of the projects and organize a symposium displaying all the project for that year. Lastly, my role as an ambassador is to help mentor first year Latinx students with any struggles they encounter. I learned  about mentorship through my time in the Marine Corps. Mentoring was something I genuinely enjoyed about being a Marine. The Mentor/Mentee relationship to me meant much more than giving guidance to someone in need. It was establishing a relationship that for some lasts a lifetime. I am still in contact with my mentees even though I left service in 2021. But being a mentor comes in many shapes and forms. Whether it is having to reprimand someone or awarding, it can also be something as simple as just listening but it is always a learning experience.

I always plan to give back in any way possible. I grew up playing sports all my life. I loved playing soccer. What I learned early on is that soccer is a team sport and with that came many challenges; however, in order to win you have to win as a team. Therefore, you are only as strong as your weakest player. So instead of putting that person down because they are not as fast or are not as agile, I learned the best way to combat that is to help them learn and improve. Once the “weakest” player is better, the team is better. Soccer is a competitive sport but that does not mean there cannot be compassion. I feel like that applies to life as well. I love to teach others what I know and help them avoid the same mistakes that I have made. I love to see people win and succeed in life. I would love to be able to offer internship opportunities to others once I reach a place in my career in which I can make that happen. But for now, mentoring others is the way I can positively give back. I have faced many challenges throughout my life such as having to pay my own way through college, having to breakdown stereotypes, being homeless, homophobia, sexism, and everything in between. Given my experiences, I have learned that passing on my knowledge is the best way I can help others steer clear of the same issues. Learning is growing and especially at a time like now, we need to come together as a team to be able to win together. I also try to do volunteering. With my schedule now, I haven’t been able to do much; however, I have done plenty. I have volunteered at multiple cemeteries to clean veteran graves. I have also volunteered as a soccer coach when I was younger. I have volunteered with the Travis Manion Foundation to teach middle school kids about leadership. That was probably my favorite.

Gary A. Marcus Scholarship for the Fine and Applied Arts

Donor: Gary Marcus

Keira Casey | she/her

Keira is a senior at Sage Creek High School. She has served as Vice President for her school’s GSA since 2023 and as Queer Historian since freshman year. In addition to GSA, Keira is an avid thespian and has even co-directed and organized her independent production of Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night in the hopes of making Shakespeare work more accessible to all groups. Keira is also a lover of art, which she intends to major in at UC Irvine.

Bill Hanson Community College Scholarship

Donor: Bill Hanson

David Martindale | he/him

David Martindale is a Computer Science student at San Diego State University, having transferred from San Diego Mesa College. With a background in biology and a deep commitment to STEM, David has contributed to engineering projects like RoboSub and participated in NASA’s NCAS program. He is passionate about using technology to promote equity, innovation, and real-world problem solving. David is honored to be a recipient of the Bill Hanson Community College Scholarship through San Diego PFLAG and remains dedicated to advocating for inclusion and excellence in the scientific community.

These past few years, I have dedicated myself to contributing meaningfully to my community through my involvement with the San Diego Red Dress Party HIV Charity. Over the past five years, my engagement with this organization has shown me the transformative power of well-organized community efforts. The Red Dress Party, presented by Think Red Project, Inc., a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit—has a dual mission: it raises funds and awareness for the local HIV/AIDS community and inspires a new generation of engaged philanthropists who grasp both the importance and the joy of giving back.

My role has evolved from volunteer to strategic participant, responsible for planning, promoting, and executing fundraising events. These events have not only generated critical financial support for the San Diego HIV Funding Collaborative (SDHFC) but have also elevated community conversations around HIV/AIDS. Established in 1990, the SDHFC pools resources and expertise from local funders and community members; working with them has deepened my understanding of community-driven funding initiatives and the need for targeted public health support.

Parallel to this work, my academic journey in STEM has been instrumental in shaping my ability to serve both personally and publicly. I owe much of my growth to a diverse support network and dedicated mentors who have refined my critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Balancing rigorous academics with community involvement has sharpened my analytical abilities and reinforced my commitment to education as a catalyst for change. Being queer in STEM offers a unique perspective, blending personal experience with a passion for scientific inquiry and social justice—an intersection that empowers me to bridge the gap between academic theory and real-world impact.

I also like to embrace the power of diverse viewpoints. I often reflect on quotes that resonate with my journey: “a birth certificate, a passport, and a library card are the three most important documents in a free society,” and “Diversity is being invited to the party; inclusion is being asked to dance.” These words remind me that true progress emerges when we prioritize communication and education to build healthier societies. Participation in discussions and workshops addressing the challenges of marginalized groups has only deepened my dedication to fostering inclusivity and open dialogue.

Looking forward, I plan to deepen my involvement in initiatives that prioritize education and communication. I am committed to organizing events that serve as both fundraisers and forums for discussion—spaces where community members can share experiences and insights. By leveraging my academic background and personal journey, I aim to create platforms that spark genuine, actionable change. As another thought inspires me, “democracy cannot survive without the guidance of a creative minority.” This serves as a reminder that innovative ideas often arise from those who challenge the norm.

I also intend to harness my interpersonal relationships, working closely with individuals from varied backgrounds to share their unique insights.

Collaboration, I have learned, is about more than pooling resources, it is about learning from one another and building resilience. In practical terms, my future plans include mentoring emerging community leaders, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds, and partnering with local organizations to develop educational programs that address both historical contexts and contemporary public health challenges.

My journey with the San Diego Red Dress Party HIV Charity has solidified my belief in the power of community engagement, inclusivity, and education. As I move forward, I remain committed to fostering environments where dialogue, academic inquiry, and community service intersect. In doing so, I hope to contribute to sustained, positive change, both for myself and for the broader community we all share.

Bill Hanson Community College Scholarship

Donor: Bill Hanson

B Ramos | they/them

B Ramos is a first-generation college student originally from New York who will be attending North-West College in San Diego this May to pursue a career in nursing. With a strong passion for helping others, B is dedicated to making a meaningful impact in healthcare. As a member of the queer and trans community, B is striving to add visibility to the specific needs of trans individuals and increase representation in healthcare. They aim to provide the resources and knowledge needed to ensure respectful, informed, and inclusive care for all.

As a nonbinary person pursuing a career in healthcare, my journey has been deeply personal and purpose-driven. I originally pursued a career in graphic design, earning a bachelor’s degree, but I found myself unfulfilled. Because of this, I packed up my car and drove across the country in search of a greater purpose. I have found that purpose in healthcare. I currently work as a Patient Care Assistant at a local hospital where I provide hands-on support to patients by assisting with daily activities, monitoring vital signs, and ensuring their overall comfort. In my work, I see people at their most vulnerable state, recovering from physical trauma. My experience in this role has deepened my understanding of patient needs and reinforced my commitment to provide compassionate care for all patients as a registered nurse.

My own experiences navigating the healthcare system as a gender-diverse individual have shown me the profound impact that compassionate, informed care can have on a person’s well-being.  Having my gender identity acknowledged and respected in a healthcare setting has allowed me to build trust and rapport with some of my providers. In contrast, I have also personally experienced the pain of being misgendered while seeking care—even during the interactions leading up to my gender-affirming surgery. It is a dehumanizing experience that no one should have to endure. In my work, I aim to be a supportive presence for others, ensuring that they receive high-quality care while having their identities respected.

My experiences as a patient and Personal Care Assistant have further fueled my commitment to becoming a nurse who not only provides excellent care but also advocates for the dignity and rights of LGBTQ+ patients. For example, Working in healthcare has allowed me to connect with other trans and nonbinary individuals in meaningful ways. Simply correcting other RNs and nurse assistants while giving or receiving updates on trans and nonbinary patients can have a meaningful impact. In addition, being a part of the community has allowed me to build rapport with LGBTQ+ clients, which improves the quality of their care during their stay in the hospital. Often, trans and nonbinary patients ask for my pronouns, and when I share them, there is an immediate shift in our dynamic. A sense of camaraderie is established through that simple exchange, as they let out a sigh of relief knowing that they will not have the pain of being misgendered or dead-named compound to the pain of their physical trauma. Acknowledging and respecting a patient’s identity fosters trust, comfort, and ultimately better care outcomes.

Looking toward the future, my goal is to open a medspa that is LGBTQ+ inclusive and specifically designed to serve the community. Access to gender-affirming care is especially crucial at a time when LGBTQ+ rights are being targeted through legislation. According to  Williams Institute UCLA School of Law, a 2022 study found that 1.3 million, or 0.5% of the population are Trans adults aged 18 and older. The shortage of healthcare providers and facilities equipped to address the unique health needs of the transgender community will only continue to be a burden and delay lifesaving care. This space would not only provide essential care but also serve as a safe, affirming environment where individuals feel truly seen and valued. By fostering a culture of inclusivity and awareness, I hope to bridge the gap in accessible, respectful care for the LGBTQ+ community.

Receiving this scholarship would provide crucial financial support as I continue my education and work toward my long-term goals. Attending nursing school presents financial challenges, requiring $70,000 in tuition, in addition to the high cost of living in San Diego. This scholarship would ease the burden of tuition and related expenses. With this support, I will be able to work toward my goal of improving access to gender-affirming care as a healthcare provider and advocate, ensuring that LGBTQ+ individuals receive the respectful, high-quality care they deserve.

Personal Achievement Scholarship

Donor: Anonymous

Krystle Montgomery | they/them

Krystle is an incoming student at The Culinary Institute of America studying Culinary Arts. Growing up in a Vietnamese refugee family, Krystle was surrounded by food that transcends borders, languages, and generations. They graduated from UC San Diego with their degree in Ethnic Studies, with a capstone project focused on the healing nature of Vietnamese food. While working for local nonprofits such as TransFamily Support Services and Viet Voices, Krystle sought ways to serve trans and nonbinary Asian American youth in San Diego. Krystle’s goal is to open a brick and mortar restaurant serving traditional Southeast Asian desserts and drinks, that acts as a gathering space uplifting the voices of the queer and trans community.

In my position as Communications & Digital Organizer at local nonprofit Viet Voices, I recently organized an arts and culture event that centered queer and trans Asian American artists across multiple disciplines. Being able to work alongside other queer Vietnamese Americans was incredibly rewarding, especially knowing that these kinds of opportunities are highly sought after in the Asian American community. Putting together this large scale event was one way that I’ve been able to make a positive impact in my community, where I not only served in my role in communications, but I also co-curated the art exhibit.

This event was the culmination of my work within the nonprofit world, where I have served both the trans and nonbinary community and also the Vietnamese American community here in San Diego. It wasn’t until this event that I was able to put together the complexity of identities that embody me: being trans and Vietnamese. By leading this event, I witnessed the impact that this kind of space has on my community.

Many people in the queer and trans Asian American community navigate the unique web of meeting familial expectations while being true to our own identities. Through the arts and culture event I hosted, I uplifted the voices of my community, who oftentimes have few opportunities to share their work in San Diego. It was important for me to create a space like this in order to connect the queer and trans Asian American community to vital resources and to facilitate conversation between individuals with shared identities and shared interests in the arts. As a community organizer, I have related to the experience that so many Asian Americans have here in San Diego, feeling disconnected from their culture, heritage, and community. This experience is intensified by the additional barrier of being queer and trans, where finding affirming spaces is rare. Keeping my community’s experiences close to my heart, I found it incredibly fulfilling to serve my community by intentionally carving out safe spaces and community events like this one.

The feedback I received after the event was overwhelmingly positive, and I see this as motivation to continue working with my community to create spaces like this. I was proud to be able to be a conduit for community voices and to highlight leaders in my community, and I feel strongly about empowering the queer and trans community in San Diego.

Although our futures in the queer and trans community seem so uncertain, I believe it is absolutely necessary to envision a world where each member of our community – our allies, friends, families, and elected officials can recognize the value of the trans community. My top priority is to serve my community after I graduate from culinary school by opening a restaurant in San Diego that serves traditional Southeast Asian desserts and drinks. My goal is to create a community space that hosts engaging events in collaboration with local nonprofits in order to facilitate a larger network for the queer and trans community.

My dream has always been to bring people together over good food, and my experience at culinary school will further drive me to support my community. I wouldn’t be who I am today without the guidance of trans and nonbinary people here in San Diego, including all of our allies who make it possible for trans people to advance on a systemic level. I plan to use my education to continue building the foundation for my restaurant as another community space that empowers our community’s voices.

I treasure my community. My work within the nonprofit field has made me realize how much I want to pursue my dreams. This opportunity to attend culinary school gives me a chance to serve my community in new ways, with the same goal to create a safe space with intention and genuine love for my community.

Personal Achievement Scholarship

Donor: Anonymous

Joseph Andre Johnson | he/him

I am a first-generation college student, and I will be graduating from Palomar College this May and will be attending Cal State San Marcos University this fall. I am proud to honor my family name in pursuing higher learning in a field that I am very passionate about. A bachelor’s in psychology is the next goal and I am ultimately striving to obtain my master’s in social work. I am eager to give back to my community that has helped pour into me and assisted me in reaching goals I didn’t think possible for me. My life continues to lead me places that I once felt limited to, and this is helping me see the real and full potential that I have within me. I look forward to being able to help others see the same within themselves.

My name is Joseph Johnson, and I am an openly gay man who has faced numerous challenges and obstacles throughout my life. Despite these struggles, I have managed to turn my life around and now dedicate myself to helping others in the LGBTQ community and those in recovery. My struggles as younger gay man combined in the world I personally grew up in, led me to develop an internal disapproval and hatred for myself. The LGBTQ community is not a community that’s viewed positively, especially fifteen years ago when I was a teenager and first started experiencing what it was like to be ridiculed and rejected by people simply because of who I was and how I showed in the world. I grew up in a dysfunctional home, with a drug-addicted mother and an absent biological father. This led me into a world of drug use as a young teenager. I sank deeper into the lifestyle of addiction for over 10 years. Experiencing homelessness, contracting HIV, and living in complete isolation of self-destruction.

With the support of my Higher Power, family, and the LGBTQ community, I found the strength to seek help and change my life and I celebrated three years clean and sober in May of this year!

I enrolled in the Choices in Recovery drug and alcohol treatment program in Vista, CA, and completed their ten-month program. The experience was transformative, and I was inspired to give back to the community that had supported me. I became an employee at Choices in Recovery and currently serve as a house manager, specializing in working with LGBTQ clients. I sponsor individuals in the NA 12 Step program and provide guidance and support to HIV positive clients. Helping others in their recovery journey has become my life’s mission, and it brings me immense fulfillment.

In 2022, I decided to pursue higher education and enrolled at Palomar College in San Marcos. I will be receiving my associate’s degree in psychology in May of this year and plan to continue my studies at California State University San Marcos to obtain my bachelor’s degree in psychology. My academic pursuits are driven by my desire to deepen my understanding of human behavior and to better support those in the LGBTQ and recovery communities. “you plan to support your community in the future?

Jeffrey D. Shorn + Charles S. Kaminski Scholarship

Donor: Charles Kaminski

Q | he/him

Aspiring to become a theme park designer, Q will be majoring in Mechanical Engineering and Architecture as he progresses into college. Graduating from Escondido High School in 2025, he has kept LGBTQ+ voices in the heart of his school’s student body by leading clubs and sports across his four years. After college, Q aims to begin a Robotics club for EHS, bringing light to more STEM-related activities to his campus, before designing animatronics and ride experiences for theme park guests.

Jeffrey D. Shorn + Charles S. Kaminski Scholarship

Donor: Charles Kaminski

Evangeline Amato | they/she

Evangelina is an incoming freshman at University of California, San Diego planning to study Political Science: Public Policy. Throughout high school, Evangelina has involved themself in city and statewide efforts to pass policy fighting environmental racism and educational inequity. Evangelina aims to lead the efforts to achieve social, environmental, and economic justice in her policy career.

"“When our families are under attack, what do we do?”

“Stand up, fight back!”

Walking backwards with a megaphone in my hand and my phone filming in the other, I watch hundreds of students marching in front of me. My classmates carry signs they made days earlier, saying “protect our communities” and “denial is not policy”. This was the fourth strike I had led for the San Diego High School’s Climate Action Club. Just weeks before, San Diego was flooded, devastating redlined and neglected communities of color, whose storm drains hadn’t been cleared in years. Our club decided to protest to bring attention to the environmental racism that caused the floods.

To make this strike happen, I held meetings with our school administration to coordinate a safe route, police escorts, water, etc. I led the creation of advertisements across our school and community, tirelessly networking with dozens of organizations and community members, coordinating speeches and tabling. I spearheaded student involvement through hosting poster making events with other clubs and informative meetings on how to get involved. I developed permission slips to ensure students wouldn’t be marked absent for attending the protest, distributing them through class presentations and conversations with students. I created a form for students and club members to get involved, delegating planning, Instagram posts, writing speeches, presentations, and more. I monitored their progress and kept a tight schedule to create an effective protest. After weeks of planning, we finally gathered at the school gates and walked out. As we made our way to City Hall, several news stations interviewed us and covered the masses of students. Community members and students spoke on their experiences and what actions to take next. Attendees became involved in continuous actions pressuring the city to support its residents, building a city-wide movement.

After spending countless hours to get the details of this strike right, what made it worthwhile was the gratitude from the people who had lost their homes to the floods. Knowing that it impacted the people we fought for has strengthened my dedication to leading the fight against injustice, which will never leave me. I have carried this through my high school career, involving myself in the San Diego community, determined to make meaningful differences. My dedication to making meaningful change was the reason why I started the San Diego High School Climate Action Club in my freshman year, and why I continued to search for more meaningful opportunities throughout the past four years. I have co-led workshops for educators and leaders from across the country on the Student Voice Continuum and how to implement shared governance between students and administrators in schools, implementing community school curriculum. I have found the most meaningful action to be policy, since I have lobbied with politicians to pass legislation across California establishing 3,200 foot setbacks between oil sites and communities, and gun violence prevention laws. I also tirelessly advocated for a bond measure to provide the San Diego Community College District increased funding, phone banking and canvassing for months before election day, contributing to the effort that caused the measure to pass. Throughout my internships, I have paneled, emceed, and organized panels, galas, summits, strikes, and more, mobilizing community members and engaging them to become involved in civic processes. My high school career has been defined by my dedication to making a positive impact in not just my community, but communities across the state.

Throughout high school, I sought out social science courses, expanding how I saw socio-economic disparities. I learned that through my education I can create power through fully understanding how societal structures enforce historical injustices, directly contributing to my approach to fighting those issues outside of academia. My dedication to my education strengthened and became immovable when I realized that through a college degree in public policy, I can gain the influence I wish I had over policymaking as a policy analyst or policymaker, and be able to directly solve societal issues on a larger scale. I have overcome a multitude of health and personal life challenges throughout high school, keeping myself motivated and disciplined, with the understanding that the work I do is directly contributing to my ability to fight injustice.

I plan to use my future solely to support my community, implementing solutions to the issues my community faces at a policy level, where change is immovable. I plan to not just advocate for the LGBTQ+ community, ensuring my community does not face hate crimes or discrimination, and that my community has incredible support and resources to thrive - but to advocate for all marginalized communities. I understand that no community is safe from oppression until every community is unoppressed, and that is why I am dedicating my life to fighting against injustice for all marginalized communities, since we all deserve to live in a world without injustice.

As I pursue higher education, I hope to lead the efforts to achieve social, environmental, and economic justice as I shape my career in policy. I plan to receive a bachelor’s degree, and ideally a master’s degree or higher, to receive a rigorous education and to get a job in policy that would have a significant level of impact. Through my education and career, I plan to work at social justice and policy organizations, collaborating with local community organizations, and mobilizing community members to make progress on the issues they face daily. I hope to inspire others to stand up for their communities by fighting against injustice, and to provide others with opportunities to have their voices be impactful on decisions that affect them. I am constantly seeing governmental decisions destroy the lives of millions across the globe through detrimental policies, and through my career and college education, I hope to not only implement policies to improve the lives of others, but also give others the ability to push back and advocate against policies that affect them."

Trischman Family Scholarship

Donor: Trischman Family

Alyssa Roman | she/her

Alyssa Roman is a proud graduating senior from Ramona High School and an incoming Microbiology major at California State University, Long Beach. As a first-generation college student and proud Latina, Alyssa is deeply passionate about science, advocacy, and community. She founded her school’s first-ever Club STEM to empower young women to explore STEM careers, and launched Gems for STEM, a podcast that uplifts the voices of women in STEM from diverse backgrounds. In addition to her work in science education, Alyssa is a dedicated advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. Alyssa aspires to become a research scientist specializing in oncology.

Don Wahl Family Memorial Scholarship

Donor: Don Wahl Family

Camila Macedo | she/they

Heyo! I’m Camila and am graduating from Crawford High School and will be an incoming first year student at UC San Diego, where I plan to study mechanical engineering with a specialization in controls and robotics. Throughout the past four years I’ve been involved in our JROTC program, ultimately becoming the Battalion commander. I’ve also been a part of our GSA club where we provide a safe space for LGBTQ+ youth. I hope to graduate from UCSD and join the robotics field afterwards, as well as give back to the community who raised me. I’d personally like to thank everyone who has helped and supported my education journey and these programs who have helped me discover myself.

Tom Schaide and Russell Fox Scholarship

Donor: Tom Schaide and Russell Fox

Samantha Rivera | she/her

Sam Rivera is a graduating senior from Chula Vista High School, and will be studying Public Health at UCLA in the fall. While in high school, Sam dedicated many hours to Scripps Mercy Chula Vista Hospital as both an intern and volunteer, where she became committed to a career in healthcare. Sam hopes to represent underserved communities within healthcare, and continue giving back to her community through medicine. She is very grateful to be a recipient of the Tom Schaide and Russell Fox Scholarship.

Tom Schaide and Russell Fox Scholarship

Donor: Tom Schaide and Russell Fox

Michelle Ramirez | she/her

My name is Michelle and I’m a member of Class of 2025 at Hilltop High School and will be attending San Diego State University this fall to major in nursing. My passion for healthcare grew from personal experiences witnessing medical negligence within my own family, where symptoms were often overlooked and dismissed. Seeing the impact that lack of compassionate care can have on patients and their loved ones inspired me to pursue a career where I can advocate for others and provide the attentive, patient-centered care everyone deserves. I am excited to begin this next chapter and work toward becoming a nurse who helps bridge the gap in healthcare.

Madruga Family Scholarship

Donor: Madruga Family

Brandon Paul | he/him

Brandon is a graduating high school senior at Orange County School of the Arts (OCSA) and a student in the Commercial Dance Conservatory. As a resident of North San Diego County, he spent his first two years of high school commuting by train to OCSA to pursue his education and training for dance. At the start of his junior year, he began staying at his uncle’s house in Orange County to take advantage of OCSA opportunities. He serves the OCSA community as part of his school’s Leadership team, where he is an assistant to one of the advisors and class treasurer. He is a member of the OCSA performance group, “Montage!” where he dances at corporate and community events. Next year, Brandon will attend Chapman University to pursue a B.F.A. in dance. Brandon is drawn to projects that don’t just entertain, but shift perspective. He wants to be an educator that affects social change, and encourages young people to be their authentic selves.

OUTbio San Diego Next Generation Innovator Scholarship

Donor: OUTbio San Diego

Toby Whittaker | he/him

I am a graduating senior from Hoover High and will be studying ecology at UCSD. I hope to work in this field because I’m passionate about environmentalism and protecting wildlife. Although not related to my career, I’m also passionate about queer issues as a bi and trans man myself. I have experience volunteering at a queer youth center in my area and I plan to continue advocating for this in the future. I hope to share my experience as a trans person to help others feel less alone and more hopeful. Additionally, I hope that sharing my experiences will help cis people understand and respect the trans community. In my free time I enjoy playing the bass, piano, and trombone, and making art.

Andy Thomas Memorial Scholarship

Donor: Rob Benzon/Dan Ferbal Foundation

Audrey Ritz | she/her

Audrey is planning to pursue Theater at California State University, Fullerton in the fall of 2025. She is a lifelong theater thespian and plans to pursue theater as a career. She plans to become a working actor as well as a theater teacher to provide kids with a positive and uplifting theater experience. Finally, she also hopes to raise enough money in the future to create a program that would fund art schools and provide scholarships to students who are also passionate about the arts!

"I’ve had the privilege to be a part of the theater community for the past 11 years. Throughout those years, I’ve learned a lot about how impactful theater is. One way that theater is impactful, is the way it provides gateways to important discussions regarding social issues and its constant work in activism. As a performer, I have had the gift of experiencing this personally and recently. As of 2024, I’ve made my biggest contribution yet to the theater community in my last play in high school. We did THE RESISTIBLE RISE OF ARTURO UI by Bertolt Brecht; an epic, dark-comedy play that tells the story of a 1930s Chicago mobster who takes over the cauliflower trade through force, violence, and manipulation, paralleling the rise of Adolf Hitler and the Nazi party before World War II. The play comments on capitalism and the dangers of allowing a dictator to rise to power unchecked. The themes of this play are especially relevant today, with the reality of certain political outcomes as of late. Watching it truly makes you stop to think, challenging what you believe, which is exactly what we want in times like these. To be a part of this experience is a big contribution in and of itself.

I was not only cast in a featured role in this play, but I was also given the opportunity to be the assistant director. When I was first informed that I was granted the chance to take on this role, I wasn't sure of what to expect. Now that it’s over, it still feels like a fever dream to me. Time had slipped away so fast because of how much fun I had. I connected with my cast mates and my director differently compared to any previous shows I had ever done. It felt like we were all a family, and I was marching in front of my pack, leading the way to victory. I assisted in every way I could to help make my director's vision come to fruition. I constantly contributed ideas if my director asked for additional help, cleaned scenes with the actors, ensured that the blocking was accounted for and executed correctly, and kept actors in check while guaranteeing an inclusive environment, all while also playing my role in the play. In truth, it was no easy task, juggling a role and maintaining a role of leadership, but I am incredibly grateful to have had the chance to do it. I consider it my most important contribution to the theater community which I believe has made a positive impact.

I hope I can make a bigger impact in the future by funding the arts. Everyone is aware that art is not free, it takes a lot of time and money to produce the shows we see today, even high school musicals. Without the funding we’ve received from generous donors, I wouldn’t have been able to experience theater as I know it today. Because of the funding we’ve received, I’ve seen professional shows, had the chance to do several plays and musicals, taken classes for dancing, acting, and singing, and have gone to art school my entire life. I want to be able to do the same thing those generous donors have done for me for other kids my age and fund art schools such as mine. High school theater has been an experience I’ll never forget and I want to give others the chance I was given to continue to inspire and motivate them to do what they love. Until I have the necessities to make that happen, I will continue to advocate to keep the arts going. The arts in general take hits every year, with funding being pulled and societies' lack of interest in supporting it. I want to uplift my fellow thespians by continuing to motivate them and to keep working on my art.

Sycuan Merit Scholarship

Donor: Sycuan

Taylor Kane Thompson | he/him

Taylor Kane Thompson, a citizen of the Cherokee Nation and descendant of the Anigatogewi clan, is balancing school and his career by pursuing an M.P.A. in Nonprofit Management while serving as Development Director for the California Environmental Justice Alliance (CEJA). He is grateful to be in a program and work for an organization that closely align with the values passed down through the generations of caring for the environment, his communities, and the pursuit of a just future for everyone. Taylor holds a B.S. with Honors in Environmental Studies and a B.S. in Biology from the University of Utah, and may pursue a doctorate after completing his M.P.A. program.

As a Two-Spirit, queer, transmasculine citizen of the Cherokee Nation, I hold multiple communities close to my heart. There is an active and ongoing genocide against both the transgender/gender-diverse community and Native communities across the nation, and I strive to use my privileges and relative safety to support my communities through volunteering, my career, and my continuing education.

One way I support the LGBT community through volunteer work is by serving as a moderator for an international online Discord server called “TransMascOver30”. This community of over 2,000 people is a support server to share resources, experiences, advice, and listening ears for anyone over the age of 26 who was assigned female at birth and does not identify as a cisgender woman. The server provided me with the support that I needed to begin my medical transition and I hope my moderation efforts will help it remain a welcoming, supportive, and helpful space for people in all stages of their transition. As the only Native moderator, I do my best to provide Native and Two-Spirit perspectives, as well as challenge problematic mindsets when they arise in conversation.

Since moving to San Diego in early 2024, I also became a volunteer guest group session speaker at a local in-patient mental health clinic to share my experience as a Two-Spirit/transgender person and my mental health journey. Some of the patients identify as transgender or gender diverse, and I am glad to provide an example of a transgender person who is doing well to combat the widespread negative or tragic representation of the community. It is so heartening to see a group of people from all walks of life being so fiercely protective and supportive of their transgender/gender-diverse members.

Shortly after arriving in San Diego, I was accepted into the San Diego LGBT Community Center’s 2024 Young Professionals Council Academy. I enjoyed learning from instructors and my peers in the cohort in areas of professional development, civic engagement, and networking, as well as what initiatives and volunteer opportunities exist in the area that I can join. I am now an alumni member of the Young Professionals Council and will support this incoming cohort by sharing my knowledge and assisting in networking opportunities. Over the past year, I also volunteered to support the Pride Festival last year and plan to again this year. I am also in the registration process to volunteer for the Trans Family Support Services, which I hope to begin in the next month or two to help push back against the attacks on the trans community from the federal government.

In addition to my work related to the LGBT community, I also have worked to support Native communities throughout the country over the past several years of my career. Previously, I worked for the Yurok Tribe in Humboldt County, CA, as the inaugural Program Manager for their Food Sovereignty Program. Through that position, I was able to help design, fund, and implement traditional food and garden/farm initiatives to reimagine the reservation food desert into a community that can access culturally appropriate foods throughout the year. I have also worked for the Intertribal Agriculture Council as their Government Grants Director. My fundraising efforts supported uplifting Native food and agriculture initiatives across the country, as well as obtaining funds to re-grant directly to Native communities that otherwise could not access them.

I currently work for the California Environmental Justice Alliance, which organizes members of marginalized communities across the state to participate in state public processes related to environmental justice issues. As a Two-Spirit person, I often advocate for my perspectives in developing policy and initiatives, ensuring at least one voice like mine is heard. Through my work as a Steering Councilmember of the California Food and Farming Network, I co-created a Tribal Reviewers Group, where about a dozen California Natives review developing food policies related to food systems to protect Tribal sovereignty and accessibility to programs. As my schedule allows, I am civically engaged locally, joining protests and local volunteer programs, such as those offered through the Pride Foundation, LGBT Center, and immigrant support organizations to advocate for community rights in San Diego.

In 2020, Native Americans in Philanthropy published the results of an analysis of philanthropic funding data from 2002 – 2016, which showed that although Native American and Alaska Native people make up 2.9% of the country’s population, only 0.4% of philanthropic funding explicitly supports Native communities. Statista, a portal for market data and research, shows that only 1% of nonprofit executive leadership identify as Native American or Alaska Native. According to the Urban Institute’s 2021 publication “National Findings on Diversity and Representation in the Nonprofit Sector”, while 44% of nonprofits have at least one board member who identifies as LGBT, only 10% of executive directors and 6% of board chairs are LGBT. Based on these statistics, I imagine the percentage of Two-Spirit and Native LGBT executive leadership representation in the nonprofit sector is almost non-existent. With the omission of these critical perspectives in nonprofit and philanthropy spaces, progress toward equitable systems is hindered.

My studies through a dual program an MA in Philanthropic Studies and a Master of Public Affairs in Nonprofit Management will not only allow me to provide solutions philanthropic funders and Boards of Directors can adopt to work towards more equitable distribution of funds and authority. Additionally, further developing my skills in both focus areas will allow me to be better prepared to take on an executive leadership role at a nonprofit organization in the future and expand my current advocacy for additional Native-focused and LGBT-focused philanthropy. Maximizing the ethical and efficiency potential in the management of non-profits is necessary to build and maintain trust from funders and the communities we serve, and this program will provide me with the tools necessary to do that for the organizations I work for throughout my career and create a pathway for other Native and LGBT nonprofit leadership. Using these Master’s degrees as a foundation, I hope to continue my educational journey in pursuing a doctorate in a related field to continue to hone my expertise and increase my capacity to support my communities.

We Believe in You Award

Donor: PFLAG San Diego County Scholarship Fund

Nadia Arredondo | she/her

Nadia Arredondo. Miracosta College. Biochemistry Major. Future Integrative Health Practitioner. Former manager, biotech, and compounding pharmacy technician. Mom. My career goal as an aspiring integrative health practitioner stems from my belief that the human body is complex and should be seen as intersecting systems instead of independent systems. My plan is to obtain education through rigorous courses/ programs to increase critical thinking, while also increasing my focus on the prevention of illnesses. I intend to use logic and science for patient-driven, whole-body care.