First-Gen Student Wins $34K Scholarship to WSU
Dulce Torres Gonzalez, a high school senior who works 30 hours a week while ranking first in her class, just won a $34,000 scholarship created specifically for first-generation students from immigrant families. Her story proves that hard work and determination can open doors to incredible opportunities.
Wichita Northwest High School senior Dulce Torres Gonzalez has every reason to celebrate. She just became the 2026 recipient of the Mark and Stacy Parkinson Scholarship, a $34,000 award designed to help first-generation college students from immigrant or refugee backgrounds attend Wichita State University.
Torres Gonzalez didn't just win this scholarship by chance. She earned it by ranking first in her entire graduating class while juggling an impressive list of achievements.
She's a state medalist in informative speaking and qualified for state competitions six times across debate and speech events. The National Speech and Debate Association has recognized her academic excellence with honors ranging from merit to special distinction awards.
But Torres Gonzalez's accomplishments extend far beyond the classroom and debate stage. She competes as a varsity tennis athlete, finishing third in the Greater Wichita Athletic League and placing among the top doubles teams at regionals.
Her dedication to helping others earned her the Volunteer of the Year award at Cloud Elementary School in 2024, followed by the Volunteer Merit Award in 2025. All while working up to 30 hours a week at a part-time job to support herself.
The Parkinson Scholarship does more than just cover tuition costs. It provides renewable financial support, mentoring opportunities, leadership development, and student success programming to help recipients thrive in college.
The Ripple Effect
Mark and Stacy Parkinson established this scholarship with a vision that extends far beyond helping individual students. By investing in first-generation college students from immigrant and refugee families, they're strengthening entire communities and creating pathways for future generations.
Torres Gonzalez plans to study political science at Wichita State with dreams of becoming a lawyer. She'll have access to resources and support systems specifically designed to help students like her succeed in higher education.
Her success story sends a powerful message to other students balancing work, school, and big dreams: the right support can turn those dreams into reality.
Based on reporting by Google News - Scholarship Awarded
This story was written by BrightWire based on verified news reports.
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