Immigrant Justice Scholarship

This scholarship was established by a Menlo Atherton graduate, Kelly Younger, who is passionate about supporting immigrants as a social justice effort. She established this program in 2004 in honor of her Godmother, Julia Villarroel, who immigrated from Bolivia and dedicated her life to working hard and loving her children here in the United States. 

Kelly’s passion to honor her godmother and love for immigrants led her to study Latin American Studies and Chicanx Studies at UCLA, work as a medical interpreter, high school guidance counselor, and now as a community organizer and social worker in direct services for newcomers. Kelly is led by her passion for immigrant justice as the Accompaniment Program Manager for the Interfaith Movement for Human Integrity.  

The scholarship is intended to support students who express passion and demonstrate involvement in activities towards social justice causes, especially in support of immigrants, are immigrants themselves, or are from immigrant families. 

Eligibility Requirements

• Current graduating high school senior or currently enrolled college students who are attending or attended one of the following high schools: Menlo-Atherton High School, Woodside High School, Carlmont High School, Sequoia High School, Redwood High School, TIDE Academy, Summit Everest High School, Cañada Middle College, East Palo Alto Academy, Eastside College Preparatory (East Palo Alto, Calif.)
• Planning to enroll in a two- or four-year college or university on a full- or part-time basis (minimum of 6 units required)
• Demonstrated interest in immigrant social justice issues and desire to continue to be involved in efforts during college. Examples of demonstrated interest include community service, school activities, and leadership opportunities taken over their high school career
• Preferred applicants will have a demonstrated interest in immigrant-oriented social justice and/or are immigrants themselves and/or were raised in a first-generation immigrant family
• Minimum cumulative high school grade point average of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale
• Demonstrated financial hardship
• Non-US citizens and undocumented students are eligible and encouraged to apply