Join us in celebrating the many accomplishments of the first class of Challenge Scholars!

Class of 2020, your community is here for you.

We are so proud

"We are so proud of your accomplishments and the focus and determination that led you to this milestone. Don’t let this unexpected crisis dampen your excitement for the future. You will do great things!" 

Diana Sieger, President of Grand Rapids Community Foundation

You don't have to do it alone 

"It can be really scary, and it's ok to admit it, if not to anyone at least yourself. You don't have to do it alone." 

Ken Miguel-Cipriano, community member 

Share your opinions and experiences

"You earned your spot. Don't be afraid to talk in class/work and share your opinions and experiences. You'll meet so many people who have different experiences. They are no better or worse than you. You both belong."

Rafael Castanon, community member

Congratulations!

"Keep up the good work! All the best on your future." 

Mark & Wendy Anderson, community members

You won't regret the hard work

"At GVSU, I grew a lot, met so many lifelong friends, and received an education that has served me tremendously throughout my career. Keep working hard and make the most out of the opportunity to attend college. You won't regret the hard work it will take to obtain your future degree!"

Tracy Van Solkema, Community Foundation donor partner

Cheering for your success

"This is scary and exciting at the same time. Know that so many people are cheering for your success: your family, your friends and your community. Don't be afraid to seek out help when you need it."

Lawson and Suzanne Sutherland, Community Foundation donor partners

Expect both failure and success

"Embrace change. Expect to fail, but also expect successes. Create a plan. Make tons of friends, but always protect your personal time dedicated to reflecting and achieving your goals."

Oliverio Covarrubias, community member

Believe in yourself

"Be confident and believe in yourself. Congratulations. I'm very proud of each and every Class of 2020 Graduate."

Tennille Harkness, Parent or family member of a Challenge Scholars student, Community Foundation donor partner and  Community member

Educators believe in Challenge Scholars!

We are extremely proud

"You did it! Continue to strive and do not get discouraged by the happenings of this world. We will overcome this together. Please know that we are extremely proud of all of you."

Awilda Diaz, College and Career Coordinator at Westwood Middle 

Remain dedicated to your pursuits

"The transition from high school to college will come with both unique challenges and exciting adventures. As a graduate of the class of 2020, you already know what it means to overcome adversity and unexpected circumstances. So we want to encourage you to use that same tenacity to remain dedicated to your educational pursuits as you transition into your post-secondary education."

Dave Emerson, Community Foundation donor partner

Wherever you go, go with all your heart

"All students should be given an opportunity to learn and build a future.There is no script. Wherever you go, go with all your heart. Failure is the condiment that gives success its flavor."

Lynette Figures, Harrison Park College and Career Coordinator

You've worked hard!

"Many of you have put in additional time to learn the language and culture. Many of you worked hard while you worked weekends or helped your parents. I am proud of your spirit and hard work! This will help you as you continue to pursue your dreams!"

Halima Ismail, Teacher or school staff at Harrison Park, Westwood or Union

Find your supporters

"I decided to apply to college and got accepted just to show people I could do it. Once I started, I knew I had to work harder than ever before. I was a first generation college student, and I was flying blind. If I got discouraged my family was always there to support. My advice to you is to work hard, work on trying to find out what it is that will make you happy in life, and find your life support, a teacher, a parent or a counselor. Never give up on yourself because you have so many people behind you."

Katherine Downes Lewis, Secretary of GRPS Board of Education