Community Foundation Trustee Andy Carpel (L) joins Progreso Latino Scholarship Fund representative Beverly Hendrix of Frederick Community College (R) in congratulating scholarships recipients Leane Clotter, Delmy Ramos, and Nicole Vaquerano. Ayla Badell and Thais Guimaraes were unavailable for the photo.

Community Foundation Awards First Progreso Latino Scholarships

August 10, 2007: Five area students have been awarded the first Progreso Latino Scholarships by The Community Foundation of Frederick County.

The Progreso Latino Scholarship Fund was established with proceeds from a Latino Festival organized by Frederick Community College and the Latina Woman’s Group Christmas Bazaar held at St. John the Evangelist Roman Catholic Church. Scholarships are awarded to promote post-secondary education within any field of study for graduates or graduate equivalents of Frederick County Public Schools, with preference given to those of Latino heritage.

Beverly Hendrix, Director of Diversity and Global Initiatives at Frederick Community College, said that what began as a modest idea three years ago has resulted in The Progreso Latino Scholarship Fund and the awarding of five $1,000 scholarships this year.

“A college education is the key to securing a bright future for these hard-working talented individuals. We are delighted that we are able to make a difference in the lives of these young adults by making college a more affordable reality,” says Ms. Hendrix.

This year’s recipients include Leane Clotter, Delmy Ramos, Nicole Vaquerano, Ayla Badell, and Thais Guimaraes.

Leane Clotter, a 2007 Brunswick High School graduate, will attend Salisbury University, majoring in Clinical Psychology. During high school Leanne worked as an intern with the National Cancer Institute and was a member of the National Honor Society.

Delmy Ramos, a 2007 Governor Thomas Johnson High School graduate, will attend Mount Saint Mary’s University to study Business. She hopes to some day own a business or financial firm. A TJ High class representative for Downtown Frederick Partnership, Delmy was also a member of the Future Business Leaders of America.

Nicole Vaquerano, a 2007 Linganore High School graduate, will continue her education at University of Maryland Baltimore County to study Music Technology. She dreams of owning her own music studio one day. An excellent student, Nicole also participated in Fellowship of Christian Athletes.

Ayla Badell, a 2007 Brunswick High School graduate, will attend Loyola College in Maryland to pursue a degree in Political Science. An excellent scholar athlete, Ayla was president of the National Honor Society and a varsity soccer and indoor/outdoor track team member.

Thais Guimaraes, a 2007 Frederick High School graduate, will attend Boston University to study Business. Her future plans include attending law school. During high school, Thais was active in student government and a member of the National Honor Society.

Since 1986, generous citizens have turned to the Community Foundation to establish charitable funds that award scholarships to deserving students and grants to nonprofit organizations, filling the many needs of the Frederick County community. To donate to The Progreso Latino Scholarship Fund, click here, or call 301.695.7660.