Celebrating the Lasting Legacy of The Community Scholars Program
On Tuesday, May 21, MKA hosted a reception to recognize The Community Scholars Program and its graduating Class of 2024 members. Established in 1965, The Community Scholars Program has provided more than 90 scholarships to students who have left MKA and made their mark on the world. Each of the nine scholarships currently provided by the school covers the full cost of an MKA education and supports students who represent a racial or ethnic minority, show exceptional academic potential, embrace the values of the MKA community, and demonstrate full financial need. Through the generosity of the MKA community, it fosters diversity and makes an MKA education accessible to exceptional students.
Sofia Tomé, a Community Scholar alumna from the Class of 2002, shared her powerful journey and the lasting impact of her MKA experience. She spoke of the supportive teachers who saw her potential and championed her success. She said, “Even while attending MKA, it wasn’t lost on me how lucky I was to have such wonderful teachers. My sense of community was strong not only because of my friends but also because of the amazing educators who I knew were on my side.” Sofia concluded with a call to action, urging everyone to connect with the current scholars and create an even stronger support system. She also recognized the commitment to generosity that has allowed the program to thrive.
The event honored two graduating Community Scholars: Will Simms and Eunice Fernandez (absent due to her May Term travels). Will, described by his teachers and coaches as “the consummate student” and a calm leader, reflected on his MKA experience, describing his time at the school, beginning in sixth grade, as "fulfilling" and highlighting the "overwhelming support" he received in pursuing his interests and talents. This support, he said, instilled valuable skills that will benefit him in the future. He expressed his gratitude to the faculty, staff, and fellow students who made learning a pleasure for the past seven years and emphasized the special place the close-knit MKA community holds in his heart.
The reception concluded with recognition and appreciation of donors who make The Community Scholars Program possible. While MKA cultivates lasting curiosity and intellectual growth throughout the community, these scholarships offer life-changing opportunities, and MKA celebrates their enduring impact. To learn more about the program and how you can support its legacy, visit mka.org/supportmka.