New scholarships for New Mexico high school students who are leaders academically and in their communities have been awarded for the upcoming fall semester.
At least one valedictorian and three salutatorians from around the state have been awarded the scholarship, covering their tuition and fees for one academic year.
“We are really proud that these students have chosen WNMU as their home for the next four years,” said Matthew Lara, Director of Admissions. “Because of their high academic achievements, they were awarded scholarships from many institutions, but they chose us.”
The new Admissions Scholarships were rolled out in May and since then students from New Mexico, Texas, Arizona and other states have applied.
For Carolyn Rose Castillo, receiving the salutatorian scholarship helped her to finalize her decision to attend WNMU. Castillo graduated from Silver High School in May.
“I didn’t want to go to a junior college,” said Castillo. “I did want to go to a school that offered me the most for my academics and softball.”
Castillo will be playing for the Lady Mustang softball team. She played the sport while at Silver High becoming a four time state champion.
Other scholarship recipients include Shelby Turner, valedictorian for Deming High School; Savannah Beth Luera, salutatorian for Corona High School; and Kaitlyn Pierson, salutatorian for Carrizozo High School.
Pierson was undecided as to where to attend college until mid-summer. After receiving her scholarship she decided to make WNMU her choice.
“Both my parents graduated from WNMU as well as my cousin and grandpa,” said Pierson. She plans to study occupational therapy.
Jordan Enriquez, from El Paso, Texas, was awarded the Leadership Scholarship for his accomplishments as a member of his high school basketball team and his high academic achievements. Enriquez will play for the Mustang basketball team.
“Our goal is to attract students that have shown exemplary leadership academically and in their communities,” explained Lara. “WNMU is a great match for these students because of the opportunities we offer students to continue to grow as leaders.”
In the last four years, WNMU has created more avenues for students to grow outside the classroom with the creation of leadership and internship opportunities.
“In 2013, the Division of Student Affairs created a new Student Hall of Fame helping to bring in to focus, and to celebrate, the many achievements of our student body,” said Lara.
The Office of Admissions continues to receive applications for its new scholarships. Students can apply for scholarships online: http://admissions.wnmu.edu/save