Recent scholarship recipients share words of gratitude

Every scholarship tells a story of potential, perseverance, and promise

This year, the Santa Fe Community Foundation received more than 150 applications for its three scholarship funds: the Michael S. Currier Scholarship Fund, the Sussman-Miller Educational Assistance Fund, and the Las Campanas Community Scholarship Fund. Together, these funds awarded over $750,000 to students for the 2025–26 school year.

Scholarship decisions are guided by volunteer committees, which are overseen by two Foundation staff members and comprised of members of the community, including current and retired teachers, a university professor, and a college counselor. The Foundation’s scholarships team works closely with local schools, colleges, and universities to share these opportunities with students in our community.

We're happy to share two letters we recently received from scholarship recipients for the 2025-26 school year.

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Cyrus Trujillo, a Sussman-Miller Educational Assistance Fund recipient for the 2025–26 school year, is a graduate of Española Valley High School and current Criminology major at UNM Albuquerque. Cyrus exemplifies the power of community investment in local students.

Dear Sussman-Miller Selection Committee,

I am truly honored and grateful to have been selected as a recipient of the 2025–26 Sussman-Miller Educational Assistance Fund through the Santa Fe Community Foundation. It means a lot to me to have my academic goals and potential recognized among so many strong applicants.

This scholarship not only eases the financial burden of continuing my education but also inspires me to work even harder to succeed in my studies and future career. Your support motivates me to stay focused and committed to making a positive impact through my education.

Thank you again for believing in me. I deeply appreciate the opportunity you've given me and will do my best to honor it.

Sincerely,
Cyrus Trujillo

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Lola Kark, a Michael S. Currier Scholarship recipient since 2023, graduated from Santa Fe Prep and now studies Environmental Science and Health at USC, where she’s also pursuing a minor in English. Originally from Santa Fe, Lola is passionate about becoming a dermatologist, environmentalist, and writer. Her journey reflects the lasting impact of community support to help students thrive at their dream schools.

Dear Currier Scholarship Selection Committee,

Thank you so much for this generous scholarship. Your support of me and belief in my academic and personal success mean so much. Thanks to the Currier scholarship I can continue to attend my dream school, USC, as I work towards becoming a dermatologist, environmentalist, and writer.

I am currently taking physics and I am going to get an A in the class! My move in date is August 20th, and I am actually counting down the days until I’m back on campus.

Thank you again for your generosity. I am honored and enormously grateful.

Sincerely,
Lola Kark