We are proud to present the winners of our two SoCalOrange scholarships. It was a very tough choice; over 50 students applied and their essays showed that they were all deserving. However, these two students stood out. The announcement was made at the New Student Send-off last Saturday.

So without further ado, please help us congratulate Lizardo Reyes and Mark Hernandez-Cornejo!

Lizardo Reyes is an incoming freshman from Koreatown. He is the first in his family to graduate not only from high school, but from middle school. With family members in jail or in gangs, Lizardo has already overcome so much as he begins his first semester at Syracuse. In his essay, he wrote, “I am loving and appreciating every moment so far and I know that no matter what obstacles are in my path, that I am not here to quit. I am here to create a future for myself and not only have an amazing career, but an amazing life.” Best of luck, Lizardo!

Mark Hernandez-Cornejo is an incoming junior from Reseda. He is studying Architecture and has earned the opportunity to study in New York City and then Florence. In his essay, Mark stated that the “School of Architecture has not only given me the skill sets to become a successful architect, but has also taught me how to see the world around me. Being project co-manager for Freedom by Design, I am now in the process of creating a tree house for handicap children for Jowonio Pre-school… Because the children are constricted to their wheelchair, my objective is to create a tree house that is ground level, but gives these children who have felt constricted their whole life the experience of being elevated above ground and seeing from a perspective they don’t normally get. There is no better feeling than applying what you love to help create a better environment.”

A huge congratulations to both Lizardo and Mark, and a heartfelt thank you to all the students who applied. Your efforts inspire us as alumni to continue giving back!