Caltrans District 1 Announces 2024 Transportation Scholarship Recipient

Published: Aug 01, 2024

Fortuna High School graduate Layla Mckenzie is this year's recipient of the Caltrans District 1 Transportation Scholarship.

Mckenzie will receive $2,250 to begin her education at the University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB) this fall and will pursue a career in environmental science as a Pre-Biology major.

Mckenzie was selected from nearly a dozen applicants based on her academic record, participation in extra-curricular activities and interest in a transportation career.

A resident of Hydesville in Humboldt County, Mckenzie said she thrived in courses like Agricultural Biology and Soil Chemistry and found "fulfillment and fascination in exploring the beauty of the natural world."

Mckenzie added that she's eager to further develop her skills in the environmental sciences at UCSB. "I envision myself conducting research, participating in internships, and collaborating on innovative projects that address pressing environmental challenges, from climate change to sustainable urban development."

The District 1 scholarship supports the professional growth of a high school senior or college, university, vocational or technical school student seeking a career in transportation. Applicants must also be from or reside in Del Norte, Humboldt, Lake or Mendocino counties.

Funding is provided by the District 1 Social Fund and the California Transportation Foundation (CTF). To learn more about CTF, please visit www.the-ctf.org.

Scholarship recipient Layla Mckenzie with Caltrans mascot Safety Sam