CSF-Yakima Scholars Celebrate Upcoming Graduation

College Success Foundation hosted a year-end celebration of CSF Achievers Scholars from Eisenhower High School and A.C. Davis High School as they take the next steps to college. Over 140 people enjoyed a sunny and warm evening at Yakima’s Emil Kissel Park to celebrate the graduating high school seniors.

The May 30 year-end celebration was filled with food, fun and camaraderie. Attendees included CSF Achievers Scholars, family and friends, CSF staff, sponsors and donors.

CSF Alumnus and Yakima Valley Community Foundation member Luis Gomez encouraged the scholars by explaining how just five years ago, he was right where they were. “Go out and make us proud; make Yakima proud,” he said.

Attendees enjoyed a familial community atmosphere as they picnicked on the grass and played volleyball in the warm breeze. Chicken enchiladas, rice, beans, chips and salsa along with two celebratory chocolate and vanilla cakes were served.

CSF Achievers received crates filled with college essentials hand-picked by College Prep Advisors Maria Urena (A.C. Davis High School) and Yolanda Guzman (Eisenhower High School), a highlight of the event.

CSF’s Susan Joseph Nielsen and Shannon Demant joined Maria and Yolanda to welcome the scholars to the event and congratulate them on their accomplishments. CSF College Services shared how CSF will continue to help scholars stay the course by providing them with the support and resources they’ll need to continue down the path of academic success and graduate with a college degree. Other speakers included Yakima Federal Savings and Loan CEO Leanna Antonio and Yakima School District Assistant Superintendent Dr. Clint Endicott.

KNDO channel 23 produced a live segment for the 5 p.m. news hour and interviewed several CSF Achievers. Students were also entered into a raffle to win fun prizes like CSF backpacks and water bottles.

CSF Scholars will be attending 12 different colleges and universities this fall equipped with more than $1 million in scholarships. Congratulations, graduates, on your remarkable achievements!

Thank you to Yakima Public Schools for their 15+ years of partnership with CSF. Together we are changing lives by inspiring thousands of students to finish high school, graduate from college and succeed in life.