HACLA - Housing Authority of the City of Los Angeles
HACLA - Housing Authority of the City of Los Angeles
08/08/2024 | News release | Distributed by Public on 09/08/2024 02:32
HACLA Hosts Twelfth Annual Build Hope, Inc. Scholarship Celebration
On June 27, 2024, HACLA held its Twelfth Annual Build Hope, Inc. Scholarship celebration. The event was held at the California Science Center and was attended by the students, their families, supporters and HACLA staff and Commissioners.
A total of 159 students who are entering or continuing their post-secondary education and reside in HACLA communities or are members of Section 8 supported families were awarded a total of $311,000 in scholarships to support their academic success. Some of the scholarships were made possible through generous contributions from HACLA's Section 3 Vendors, many of whom have supported this event for years. This year's donors were EFI Global Inc, Yardi Systems, Inc., Reno & Cavanaugh, PLLC., Verizon, Inc., Burke, Williams & Sorensen LLP, Nastich Law, Citadel Environmental, JOA Group, Berman Auditors, Nan McKay & Associates, Inc., Victor Orozco Construction, Aleshire & Wynder LLP, Aurora Environmental, Landscape Structures, AALR Law Firm, Ricoh Printers, and First Fire Systems.
A few of them attended the event and provided the young scholars with words of encouragement and praise in recognition of their impressive achievements, determination and powerful stories of overcoming adversity.
Students were accepted or continuing their educations at a variety of colleges and universities, most notably Stanford, UC Berkeley, UC Irvine, USC, Yale, Loyola Marymount, Occidental and the Cal State University system, among other colleges and universities.
Below are abbreviated remarks from a few of the donors who presented scholarship awards:
Daniel O'Gara, Verizon
"Congratulations to everyone here today. It has been through your hard work, dedication, and talent, and remember that this is just the beginning of your journey. Keep striving for excellence, stay curious, and never stop learning. Believe in yourself and continue to make the most of every opportunity."
Shayan Simantob, EFI Global
"Congrats to all the scholarship recipients. As you embark on your continuing journey of education, know that learning is a lifelong pursuit. We are not only proud of your achievement, but grateful to see the new generation of leaders growing into your own. Don't forget to be bold, be dedicated. Don't be afraid to break things, shake things up, and make an impact we know you are capable of."
Scott Simpson, JOA Group
"You earned your way here today and have already proven that you can overcome all kinds of challenges. So now, decide that you are going to go the rest of the way. Today, is proof that there is support out there from so many people. You are not alone. We are here to support you today so you can be up here today to help somebody else. I applaud each and every one of you.
Be a leader, and an example of who you want to be. Surround yourself with good people. Focus on the task at hand and embrace the challenge. Embrace it! Always, every day, get up to do your best and you will be rewarded. See yourself up here one day giving out scholarships to somebody else."
Jorge Romero, Citadel Environmental
"Growing up in Jordan Downs myself and seeing you all here today gives me a great joy. Don't forget where you come from. Use it to push yourself even further and never be afraid to take risks."