163 Students Win $1.2M in New Mexico Scholarships
The LANL Foundation just awarded $1.2 million in scholarships to 163 Northern New Mexico students pursuing college degrees. Since 1999, the organization has invested nearly $15 million in helping local youth access higher education.
One hundred sixty-three students across Northern New Mexico just received life-changing news: they're getting help paying for college.
The LANL Foundation announced its 2026 scholarship recipients, awarding nearly $1.2 million to students pursuing bachelor's degrees. The scholarships are funded by employees at Los Alamos National Laboratory, Triad National Security, and community members who believe in investing in local talent.
Three students earned the prestigious $20,000 Gold Scholarship this year. Eileen Ou from The Academy for Technology and the Classics is a National Merit Finalist and international HOSA champion who dreams of expanding healthcare to underserved communities. Sydney Zellers, valedictorian at V. Sue Cleveland High School, dominated state Mock Trial competitions and plans to study political science and law.
Antonio Romero, valedictorian of Robertson High School, balanced academics with work and family caregiving while leading his local FFA chapter and performing as a mariachi violinist. He wants to use his law degree to strengthen families and communities.
These scholarships do more than cover tuition. Recipients join a network that includes professional mentorship, paid internships at Los Alamos National Laboratory and regional employers, and campus support programs at UNM and New Mexico State University.
The Ripple Effect
Since 1999, the foundation has awarded nearly 2,900 scholarships totaling almost $15 million. Student ambassadors who previously received scholarships now help guide newcomers through their first year of college. Nearly 70 students have been paired with professional mentors since 2021, creating connections that last beyond graduation.
"These scholarships are bridges among generations," said LANL Foundation President Gwen Perea Warniment. "A LANL Foundation scholarship honors the resilience of our ancestors while investing in the brilliance of our youth."
The investment keeps talent rooted in Northern New Mexico while giving students the power to give back to their communities. Many scholarship recipients return home after graduation, bringing their education and experience to the region that supported their dreams.
The foundation will celebrate this year's winners and donors at its annual reception in May.
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Based on reporting by Google News - Scholarship Awarded
This story was written by BrightWire based on verified news reports.
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