Recognizing the achievements of high school graduates from underrepresented communities, the Oregon College Saving Plan, a program of the Oregon State Treasury, has awarded this year's Diversity in Leadership Scholarship to two exceptional students, Eberildo Ramos Matias and Leanna Rios. Both students have distinguished themselves through their academic prowess and their commitment to their respective communities. According to a report by the Oregon State Treasury, the scholarship, now in its fourth year, aims to empower these emerging leaders to continue their education and forge pathways for others to follow.
Selected on the basis of their merits, Eberildo and Leanna's stories are testament to the struggle and determination it often takes for those from marginalized backgrounds to access higher education. Making the announcement during national College Savings Month, the Oregon State Treasury highlighted the students' achievements in a statement obtained by their official post. Matias, a first-generation Guatemalan immigrant and a future University of Oregon student, aspires to become a Certified Public Accountant despite financial struggles. Rios, planning to attend Western Oregon University to become a reading specialist, is driven by her upbringing in the foster care system and aims to close the literacy gap.
Eberildo Matias shed light on the significance of this scholarship for him, saying, "I am incredibly grateful to receive the Diversity in Leadership Scholarship—coming from a family with long time financial struggles, even attending college is a massive risk. This award has allowed me to take a path that many in my community couldn't take." He conveyed to the Oregon State Treasury his determination to succeed and inspire others that a college education is attainable with proper planning. Leanna Rios, similarly fueled by a passion to make a difference, asserted, "The Oregon College Savings Plan scholarship is a dream come true. It will enable me to pursue my passion for education and make a meaningful difference in the lives of children who may be struggling with reading."
Each recipient will receive $10,000 for their first year of study, adding to the more than $121,000 in scholarship funds that the Oregon College Savings Plan has dispersed since 2021 to eight students, as informed by Oregon State Treasurer Tobias Read. Known for boosting the economic landscape of Oregon by fostering inclusivity and diversity, the Treasurer lauds this year's recipients: "We are thrilled to recognize Eberildo and Leanna as recipients of the Diversity in Leadership Scholarship. This award demonstrates our commitment to fostering a more inclusive and equitable Oregon." Read noted that by backing stand-out students annually, the state invests in a future replete with community impact and leadership diversity.
The scholarships are managed through the Oregon Community Foundation and funded by the Oregon College Savings Plan. For those eyeing the opportunity, applications open early November each year with a deadline in early April for the following academic year. More information on the scholarship and application process can be found on the Oregon State Treasury website.
