In a heartwarming ceremony that underscores the power of resilience and character, Cheyenne High School seniors Nathan Acosta and Zavion Smith were surprised with a life-changing announcement: they are the recipients of the prestigious Frias Legacy Scholarship, each awarded a staggering $100,000. This story is not just about financial aid; it’s about dreams realized, hardships overcome, and futures made brighter through the generosity of the Charles and Phyllis M. Frias Charitable Trust.
A Scholarship Unlike Any Other
While many scholarships prioritize academic performance, the Frias Legacy Scholarship stands out for its unique criteria. As John H. Mowbray from the Public Education Foundation explains, “We don’t look so much at the grades. We look at some adversity that that student suffered during their high school career.” This approach recognizes the strength and perseverance of students like Nathan and Zavion, who have faced significant challenges yet continue to strive for excellence.
Meet the Scholars: Nathan and Zavion
Nathan Acosta and Zavion Smith exemplify the spirit of this scholarship. Both have faced personal adversities that have shaped their journeys and aspirations. Nathan, who expressed deep gratitude for his grandmother’s role in his life, plans to use the scholarship to pursue a career in veterinary medicine. “I want to become an equine veterinary specialist,” Nathan shares, with dreams of helping animals..
Zavion, on the other hand, has his eyes set on the world of music technology. He plans to attend Huston-Tillotson University in Austin, Texas, where he will major in music technology. “I want to get into producing and the production side of music,” he says, clearly excited about the future that lies ahead.
The Legacy of Charles and Phyllis M. Frias
The scholarship is a testament to the incredible legacy of Charles and Phyllis M. Frias. Starting from modest beginnings, they built the largest transportation company in Nevada, all without a college education. Their journey is a powerful reminder of what can be achieved with hard work and dedication. Along the way, they never forgot to give back to their community, as evidenced by the Frias Legacy Scholarship.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Nathan and Zavion’s reactions to receiving the scholarship were a mix of disbelief and overwhelming gratitude. “It’s just surreal. It doesn’t feel real yet, but it is. It’s awesome,” Nathan said. Zavion echoed similar sentiments, “I feel valued as a person, as an individual. And I feel amazing.”
These scholarships not only alleviate the financial burden of higher education but also provide these young men with the confidence and support to pursue their dreams. As part of the scholarship program, they will also collaborate with Junior Achievement on financial literacy, ensuring they manage their funds wisely and graduate debt-free.
Looking Forward
The futures of Nathan and Zavion are undeniably bright. With clear goals and a strong support system, they are well on their way to making significant contributions in their respective fields. Nathan’s aspiration to become a veterinary specialist and Zavion’s dream to enter music production are now within reach, thanks to the Frias Legacy Scholarship.
This story is a beautiful reminder of the impact that kindness, generosity, and recognition of character can have on young lives. It encourages us to support and uplift those around us, fostering a community where dreams are not just encouraged but enabled.
