Purpose and Biography:
For the past 20 years, Maria worked at San Jose State University as an educator, outreach specialist, academic adviser, counselor, and mentor. She struggled indefatigably on behalf of students and the Educational Opportunity Program (EOP). She was a lifelong activist in the Chicano/Latino Rights Movement, the United Farm Workers, Chicano/Latino Youth Leadership Conference, and the Latina Leadership Network. During this time, Maria provided a voice for the underrepresented student community through her position with EOP. She went above and beyond the traditional expectations of her role to ensure that students achieve their full academic potential. Through curriculum and programming, she orchestrated a personal feel towards each individual's academic experience - creating a familial sense of welcome and belonging for marginalized student communities.
Maria was very dedicated and proud to work in making sure more students had access to college. In her honor, several of her students and friends have taken the opportunity to fund raise monies and award scholarships to well deserved students. The intent of this scholarship endowment is to continue her legacy.
Awards
1. Tuition Scholarship
2. Book Scholarship (Amounts: TBA)
Criteria:
Must be of Latino descent
Transfer student to a university in pursuit of a baccalaureate degree
GPA 2.5+
Special consideration will be given to single parents and/or AB540 students
Requirements:
1-2 page essay
2 letters of recommendation (faculty, community, etc)
Interview may be required
Contact Person:
Yvonne Castillo Rios
Email Address: lateacher1@comcast.net
SEND CONTRIBUTIONS TO:
ATTN: Maria De La Cruz Scholarship Endowment
ADDRESS: San Jose/Evergreen Community College District Foundation
4750 San Felipe Road, San Jose CA 95135
Evergreen Valley College Scholarship Reception
April 27, 2012
Congratulations to the following student:
Angelica Mendoza
