2025 Scholarship Recipients

Isabella Bonner is sponsored by her grandmother Shirley Rostodaha. Isabella graduated from Hi Tech High HS, Chula Vista, CA, with a 4.40 GPA (151 graduates, no ranking stated).

Isabella’s personal statement: “My journey has been both a reflection of personal challenges and a means of wanting to influence those around me positively. As a Black young woman, I have faced the dual challenge of grappling with my identity while navigating a world that often overlooks voices like mine. In my early education journey, I became acutely aware of the silent struggle I faced with my mental health. This realization prompted me to take action to help myself and others within my community. My freshman year, I used my creative skills to spread awareness through a mural I created at my school bearing the phrase, “Grow through what you go through,” an expression of resilience that resonated deeply within me.”

Isabella’s Reference Report: There are few students that are as sweet, passionate, and dedicated as Isabella Bonner. She has consistently grasped math concepts that many students struggle with. However, when concepts became more difficult, she made sure to take the time to ask questions and put in the extra work to master the content. At Hi Tech High, juniors have the option to choose from a variety of month-long internships. Isabella did not disappoint teachers and mentors by choosing SDSU Lee Lab. In the progress report, her mentor Dr Lee, had nothing but praise about her performance; he was truly impressed with how quickly she learned the new concepts. One of Isabella’s greatest accomplishments was to have her original artwork showcased at the grand opening of the National Comic Con Museum, during her freshman year.     

Future Plans and Goals: Isabella was diagnosed with Tourette Syndrome (TS) and co-occurring conditions of TS, such as severe anxiety and depression which have presented her with different challenges throughout her life. Navigating these conditions has taught her resilience, adaptability, and perseverance. Her experiences have inspired Isabella to pursue a career in her passion for STEM. Accordingly, she plans to major in biotechnology or neuroscience, motivated by her internship at Illumina, a biotech company in San Diego.  

Kenzo Compilati is sponsored by his father Gerlando Compilati. Kenzo graduated from San Marcos HS, San Marcos, CA with a 4.50 GPA (770 graduates; no ranking stated).

Kenso’s Personal Statement: “I have been invested in airplanes since the first day I boarded an airplane: The Boeing 777. Ever since then, I have been incredibly interested in planes, noting the airline, model, and variant of each jet at every opportunity. Since then, my love for planes has expanded to engineering; my favorite subjects span from Physics and Calculus to more hands-on classes such as engineering. Outside of my academics, I view myself as an outgoing and positive person in the community and try my best to make contributions to the people around me.”  

Kenzo’s Reference Report: Kenzo possesses a passion for engineering, which he will merge with his innate people skills; this sets him apart. He envisions a career where he can innovate, as well as communicate and lead, making mechanical engineering a perfect fit. His drive is evident in his involvement with The Energy Coalition, where he volunteers as an intern. There Kenzo dove into energy solutions for low-income communities, showcasing his dedication to sustainable development. His use of ArcGis software to present his findings was not just about data: it was about telling a story and educating others, a testament to his ability to connect and inspire. Kenzo’s musical talents further amplify his compassionate nature. For four years, he has volunteered to play the piano at local nursing homes and Rady Children’s Hospital; bringing moments of solace and joy to residents and patients alike.

Future Plans and Goals:  Kenzo has a passion for STEM subjects and has completed an astonishing ten math, science, engineering, and wood working courses while attending San Marcos HS. In addition he has completed a 3-year engineering career pathway and aspires to study engineering at an elite university soon. No matter what challenges come his way, he always steps up to the plate and performs to the best of his abilities. After gaining the necessary knowledge and experience, he hopes to build his own company and guide others, with similar passions, in creating components for airplanes.

Carter Gibbens is sponsored by his grandmother Gail Church. Carter graduated from Mission Hills HS, San Marcos, CA, with a 4.33 GPA (681 graduates; no ranking stated).

Carter’s Personal Statement: “As a type 1 diabetic teenager from a middle-class family, I truly understand the importance of finding community and uplifting the people around me. I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes (T1D) when I was eleven and it was often difficult for me to feel normal and accepted when I felt so different from my peers. It was only through discovering and contributing to a community that I felt accepted and understood. My whole life, my parents and brother pushed me to be the best version of myself possible. I always threw myself into my schoolwork and activities, committing myself completely to the things I was passionate about and always working hard to achieve my goals.”

Carter’s Reference Report: A sincere and authentic achiever, both educationally and socially. He strives to make a positive impact inside and outside the classroom. Carter is a consistent contributor within the school’s peer-led tutoring program. He tutors multiple times a week, particularly in the area of History. In his final year in high school, he organized numerous study groups in order to support students before assessments in multiple AP courses. His organization, communication and collaboration 
ability have positively impacted hundreds of students within our advanced placement program. His graduation will leave behind some real big shoes to fill.

Future Plans and Goals: Carter has expressed his interest in pursuing a degree in History with the goal of becoming a professor. He has shared his enthusiasm for learning about the past and how it enhances his understanding of the world we live in today. It’s logical to surmise that his experience volunteering with Breakthrough T1D. He’s studied the history of the disease from the development of insulin 100 years ago to the innovative breakthroughs of the past few years that impact Carter daily. He plans to attend a 4-year university (UC or CSU systems) with the goal of one day acquiring his PhD. He is determined to guide a new generation of scholars on a subject so dear to his heart.

June Medoro is sponsored by her mother Kim Hatfield. June graduated from Escondido Charter HS, Escondido, CA, with a 4.30 GPA (255 graduates, no ranking stated).

June’s personal statement: “Oh, your grandchild is so cute, is your dad Asian?” I’ve heard variations of this all my life. My White parents are 70 and 75, so it’s an understandable mistake.” Navigating transracial, transcultural, and transgenerational adoption has been my reality since I was adopted from inner Mongolia in 2008. Of the 70,000 children adopted from China to the US up to that point, only around seventy were Mongolian, I’m one of them, which makes my experience even more unique. Through my upbringing I’ve learned to balance Asian and Western cultural values. In Asian communities, education and collective success are central; my parents, rooted in 1950’s values, instilled in me the importance of self-reliance and individuality. I embraced academic achievement as the path to success, but rejected the idea that luck is key to success. To me, success is earned through effort.”

June’s Reference Report: June is passionate about STEM in so many variations and truly strives to comprehend, retain, and enjoy the subject matter at hand. She is driven, hardworking, supportive, inquisitive, and a great team player. Her initiative came into focus, by becoming an officer for the Marine Science Club, going to France, Switzerland, and Germany on a summer school trip, volunteering at UCSD Health desk, taking part in Palomar Pathmaker, completing all course requirements, and Rady Children’s Medical Academy. She never backs down from a challenge and is always looking for innovative ways to gain experience with her passion for STEM.      

Future Plans and Goals: The knowledge gained so far, as well as having a medically fragile sister, has informed June’s career path. The ability to connect with people from diverse backgrounds and her capacity for compassion have fueled her desire to reach her goal of becoming a nurse, and later, a nurse practitioner. June is looking forward to making a positive, lasting impact on her community and the healthcare system. 

Jennifer Polick is sponsored by her grandmother Earleen Polick. Jennifer graduated from Grace Christian Schools, San Diego, CA, with a 3.83 GPA (17 graduates, no ranking stated).

Jennifer’s personal statement: “I have an amazing and supportive family, with two younger siblings who I am extremely close to. Growing up, I learned many valuable skills and morals from my parents and grandmother. I was taught how important it was to be myself, so I could create a strong foundation for my future. No matter what I am given, I always try to do my best. My first year of high school, was traditional in person learning. However, for the next three years, I switched back to homeschooling since it worked better with my schedule. I continued to work hard on my grades and towards becoming the mature adult that I had wanted to become. Once junior year hit, I quickly made plans to juggle between pursuing my academics and working a part-time job and gaining real-life work experiences. My family drilled into me, at a young age, that you cannot get anywhere in life without one thing, hard work. If a door opens up, I should be brave and step through and take the opportunity.” 

Jennifer’s Reference Report: Jennifer is a compassionate and strong young woman who has consistently demonstrated selflessness in her service at Sonrise Community Church. She has always stood out as a wonderful example of character; trustworthy, follows through with what she commits to doing and makes sound decisions. Over the past five years, she has shown kindness and leadership, particularly in her work with children and organizing a fundraising event for a local nonprofit. She has also balanced all of this while having a part-time job at Sea World over the summer and starting a job at Handles ice cream shop during her senior year. Eager to pursue her education, Jennifer is taking a bold step to relocate and attend college.  

Future Plans and Goals: Jennifer has decided to attend college in North Carolina where she will have family support nearby and the opportunity to explore her academic interests and decide on a major that aligns with her talents and passions. While she has not selected a major yet, her passion for science is clear, and she will approach whatever degree she chooses with dedication and excellence.  

La Rue Pierce, RESDC 2025 Community Service Award

Tiaira Richardson is sponsored by her grandfather James P. Beaty. Tiaira graduated from Rancho Buena Vista HS, Vista, CA, with a 3.24 GPA (485 graduates, no ranking stated). This award is in recognition of Tiaira’s commitment to  excellence in service to her community. The award celebrates La Rue Pierce’s long service on the RESDC Board of Directors, pioneering the RESDC merit scholarship program, and being a Community Service Advocate.  

Tiaira’s personal statement: “Several weeks ago, I read an article about the rising cost of a college education. The article noted that most college eligible high school seniors never finish college let alone start college because of the cost and burden it has on the students and their families. In a country like ours no one should be denied the right to an education based on economic status. I was inspired by a heartwarming moment in sports history; Sarah Tucholsky of Western Oregon University smashed her first-ever home run over the center field fence. In her excitement, Sarah missed first base, and as she turned to correct her mistake, she collapsed from a knee injury. Crawling back to first base, she was unable to continue. Her team could not assist her without disqualifying the home run, and a pinch-runner would turn the home run into a single. In a remarkable display of sportsmanship and compassion, Mallory Holtman, the star first baseman of Central Washington University and her teammate Liz Wallace decided to carry their injured opponent around the diamond, stopping at each base so Sara could gently touch it with her good leg. ‘It was the right thing to do,’ Holtman said, reflecting on her selfless act. ‘She hit it over the fence. She deserved the home run.’ This act of compassion and humanity has inspired me to be the person who lifts others up, to be kind and to show an unselfish love and compassion for everyone.”   

Tiaira’s Reference Report; In addition to Tiaira’s participation in organized sports, she has shown her ability to manage a demanding schedule. Such ability speaks to the level of commitment she shows to her responsibilities. During the past four years, she has played high school basketball, club and high school softball, while at the same time remaining a high performing student. Tiaira has shown a deep commitment to giving back to her community. She volunteers her time at her local church (North Coast Church, Vista) to a wide range of service-oriented activities, from mentoring younger students, to assisting with food drives. What sets Tiaira apart is not just her dedication to community service, but her genuine passion for creating positive changes and helping those who cannot help themselves.

Future Plans and Goals: Tiaira’s career interest is Sports Medicine, as her main course of study and has been accepted to Whittier College in Whittier, CA; she plans on attending in the Fall of 2025. Tiaira’s consistent excellent academic achievement is a testament to her commitment to her higher education pursuit. 

George Shoemaker, RESDC 2025 Memorial Scholarship Recipient

Olivia Williamson is sponsored by her grandmother Judy O’Brien. Olivia graduated from Mission Hills HS, San Marcos, CA, with a 4.41 GPA (689 graduates, no ranking stated). This award simultaneously recognizes her scholastic achievement, as well as having engaged in the highest number of volunteer service projects during her high school years. Showcasing the “spirit of service” advocated and promoted by Robert Shoemaker through his lengthy career in County government service. 

Olivia’s Personal Statement: “Spending the summer away from home at a program at UC Berkeley following my junior year, I grew close to my phone; I was truly captivated by it. One evening, sitting in a plaza with a friend, I let two hours pass due to my phone obsession. A street artist set up his guitar and noticed us. He asked us how we were, and we casually replied not saying much. He continued to engage with us despite our lack of interest, and we learned a lot about him. He was passionate about many art forms. He expressed how art helped him live in the moment and appreciate the world, which was when reality hit me. Upon my sudden awareness of my problem, I took action. I started to limit my screen time so I could return to what I loved: being involved in my community.”

Olivia’s Reference Report: Olivia’s oldest sister has Downs syndrome. Despite being younger, Olivia has taken on the role akin to older siblings, demonstrating maturity and empathy beyond her years. This experience has undoubtedly contributed to her development into the remarkable young individual she is today, with a deep understanding of inclusivity and compassion. One of Olivia’s proudest achievements is her continued participation in the Carson Scholarship Foundation. Her dedication to maintaining excellent grades and active involvement in extracurriculars has resulted in seven consecutive scholarship awards, totaling $7,000 towards her education. This accomplishment highlights her academic achievement, as well as her unwavering commitment to her future.

Future Plans and Goals: Olivia aspires to pursue an advanced degree in chemical engineering with the aim of developing more efficient and less harmful fuels. Her dedication to this field is evident in her academic pursuits and leadership roles in related students’ organizations. Her passion has been driven primarily by her significant volunteering commitment to the San Diego Zoo’s Conservation Corps. Olivia’s commitment to making a positive impact on the world is a testament to her passion for innovation and sustainability. □   

Theo and Evelyn Yakel 2025 Scholarship Recipients

Congratulations to the 2025 recipients of the Theo and Evelyn Yakel Scholarships! The Board members of RESDC, are honored to partner with the San Diego Foundation in this effort.

*students being awarded the Yakel Scholarship, as well as the RESDC Merit Scholarship

In 2001, former RESDC member Theo Yakel and his wife, Evelyn, placed a $250,000 endowment with the San Diego Foundation for the purpose of awarding scholarships to children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren of members of The Retired Employees of San Diego County (RESDC). The interest from the endowment is used to fund the annual scholarships. Many thanks to Theo and Evelyn for their generous endowment to provide financial assistance to young people seeking higher education at a college or university.

The Yakel Scholarships are in addition to and complementary to the scholarships that RESDC awards. This is another opportunity for the families of RESDC members.

Congratulations and the best in all future endeavors to our 2025 Scholarship Recipients. □

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