March 5, 2021 GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — The Grand Rapids Community College Foundation helped 10 students achieve a life-changing education through the generosity of the AT&T Aspire program.
Funded by the AT&T Foundation, The AT&T Aspire program awarded the GRCC Foundation a $10,000 grant to benefit 10 low-income or first-generation students.
“Through AT&T Aspire, we are investing in students today -- at home, in the classroom, at work -- to prepare them for success tomorrow,” said David Lewis, president of AT&T Michigan.
Sara Nguyen said the AT&T scholarship will be a huge help because she is just at the start of her higher education journey: After finishing her associate degree at GRCC, she plans to transfer to Grand Valley State University for a bachelor’s degree in Spanish with a minor in psychology.
“I am super grateful and beyond blessed to have been able to receive this scholarship award,” said Nguyen, a first-generation college student. “Thank you!”
For Julia Buzzinotti, also a first-generation college student, the scholarship couldn’t come at a better time.
“It’s such an honor to be selected for this scholarship,” said Buzzinotti, who plans to transfer to GVSU in pursuit of a teaching career. “It’s been such a hard year with the pandemic, and receiving this money is such a blessing!”
In addition to Nguyen and Buzzinotti, the scholarship recipients are:
- Deborah Nasu Acosta, pursuing a pharmacy career.
- Maritsa Aguilera, majoring in business.
- Makala Bohrer, majoring in education.
- Teague Storm Donazzolo, pursuing a psychology degree.
- Veronika R. Frei, pursuing a career in art education.
- Michelle-Ann Natalia Davida Morle, planning a social work career.
- Rita Nava Orozco, majoring in journalism.
- Jeniffer C. Pablo, pursuing a career in nursing.
“We are so grateful for the generosity of the AT&T Foundation,” said Dr. Kathryn K. Mullins, vice president for College Advancement and executive director of the GRCC Foundation. “These scholarships will make such a difference for these 10 students as they work toward their goals.”
The GRCC Foundation, established in 1964, has awarded more than $1.2 million in scholarships to help students along their educational journey. If you are interested in donating to the foundation, you can learn more here.
Grand Rapids Community College offers learners of all ages opportunities to gain credits for degrees or transfer and in-demand career skills leading to rewarding careers. GRCC was established in 1914 – Michigan’s first community college -- and offers affordable classes on weekdays, evenings, Saturdays and online at locations throughout Kent and Ottawa counties.