The New Mexico Simon Scholars Program, a flagship initiative of The Simon Charitable Foundation, is celebrating a major milestone—its 20th class of scholars.
Each year, the program identifies promising high school sophomores from Albuquerque and Santa Fe who demonstrate academic excellence and determination to succeed, providing them with the support they need to thrive through college and beyond.
Partnering with Schools to Find Hidden Talent
Through strong partnerships with Albuquerque High, Highland High, South Valley Academy, Santa Fe High, and Capital High, the program ensures that deserving students across diverse communities have access to opportunity.
These partnerships enable educators and mentors to identify students who not only excel academically but also display resilience, leadership, and a commitment to improving their communities.
Introducing the 20th Class of Scholars
This year’s group of outstanding scholars represents the bright future of New Mexico’s youth.
From Capital High School, the Simon Scholars are Yoseline Anchondo, Yarisdi Ayala, Raul Alvarado, Fatima Garcia, Tairi Mejia, Jaqueline Gutierrez, Geraldine Espinoza, and Lesly Cruz.
- At Albuquerque High, Fanny Gonzalez proudly represents her school.
- Santa Fe High is home to Carmela Enriquez, Hazel Macejka, and Liliana Ponce Castillo.
From South Valley Academy, the honorees are Ashley Acosta, Carlos Granados, Brandon Acosta, Ruby Morales Chacon, and Jayline Acosta. - Finally, Highland High School celebrates Fernanda Vargas Perez, Cassidy Welsh, Natalia Alvarado, and Zanyah Frazier.
Seven Years of Life-Changing Support
The Simon Scholars Program goes far beyond financial aid—it’s a holistic approach to student success. Over a seven-year journey that spans high school and college, scholars receive stipends, laptops, mentoring, and access to life skills workshops and retreats.
Each component is designed to nurture confidence, leadership, and academic achievement while preparing students for the challenges of higher education.
Investing in Long-Term Success
Since its founding in 2005, more than 400 students have benefitted from the program’s life-changing resources. Scholars receive up to $16,000 in college scholarships along with continued guidance from mentors who help them navigate academic, financial, and personal challenges.
The results speak volumes: a 98% high school graduation rate and a 73% college graduation rate—both significantly higher than state and national averages.
A Legacy of Community Impact
Beyond academics, the Simon Scholars initiative cultivates a spirit of community and service. Many alumni return to mentor new scholars, volunteer in local organizations, and advocate for educational equity across New Mexico.
Their stories demonstrate the power of consistent support and the ripple effect of investing in young people’s potential.
Celebrating Academic Excellence at New Mexico State University
In a related achievement, two exceptional New Mexico students—Dina Advani Mahmood of Santa Fe and Madeline Gates of Albuquerque—have been elected to membership in The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi at New Mexico State University.
Their induction highlights the state’s ongoing tradition of academic excellence and leadership fostered by programs like Simon Scholars.
Honoring the Nation’s Brightest Minds
Phi Kappa Phi is recognized as the nation’s oldest and most selective collegiate honor society spanning all academic disciplines. Membership is by invitation only and reserved for the top 10% of seniors and graduate students, as well as the top 7.5% of juniors.
Mahmood and Gates now join an elite group of scholars dedicated to scholarship, service, and leadership.
Looking Toward the Future
As the New Mexico Simon Scholars Program marks two decades of success, its mission remains clear: to empower underserved students with the tools, confidence, and opportunities to achieve their dreams.
By continuing to invest in education, mentorship, and community, the foundation ensures that the legacy of the Simon Scholars will continue inspiring generations to come.
