2026 Scholarship Essay Contest

Every November, the Knights of Columbus Arts and Crafts Fair at Good Shepherd Church serves as a fundraiser for scholarships that go to local students who will be furthering their education at Catholic schools.

In 2026, the recipients were chosen based on essays they submitted describing activities, events, or achievements that have shaped their lives. From the entrants, six students were chosen to each receive a $2,000 scholarship.

Mariya Alfaro: Her essay described the gratitude she feels for the love and guidance God provides to help her grow closer to him each day.

Ethan Aquino: He explained how the benefits of a Catholic education have inspired him to live out his faith with action, including volunteering with the Works of Mercy ministry.

Kaleia Bautista: She revealed how she got closer to God after a stay at science camp helped her see how every detail in nature provides an example of God’s presence.

Lola Garcia: Described how her Catholic education has helped her become a light in the world intent on bringing hope, kindness, and truth to others.

Angelyn Gonzales: She wrote about feeding the hungry through the St. John’s Program for Change. The experience provided her with evidence that even simple acts can bring us closer to God.

Annessa Valenton: Her essay discussed how Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount gives her faith to trust in God’s plan, even when things in life aren’t going as well as possible.

Mariya Alfaro, Ethan Aquino, Kaleia Bautista, and Angelyn Gonzales received their scholarships on July 5, at a mass celebrated by Fr. Michael Vaughn. Lola Garcia and Annessa Valenton will receive their scholarships at a later date.