South Gate High School student Diamond Monique Luna is one of 15 scholars – out of 128 nominees across Los Angeles Unified high schools – to win the coveted $20,000 Warren Christopher Scholarship, which will help cover college tuition and other educational expenses.
“This scholarship is life-changing for me not only in terms of it being a monetary award, but it is also validating my hard work, sacrifices and determination,” Diamond said.
It’s a grand opportunity that opens more doors for my education, which will push me, in the long run, to excel even higher in my studies in hopes of making everyone at my school, home and community very proud.
Diamond Monique Luna, South Gate High School #GEARUPworks Student
The program began in 1994 and recognizes students at LAUSD who face real risks that their education will be cut short by circumstances beyond their control. The scholarship is awarded to 10th-grade students with the goal of motivating them to excel throughout high school and attend and graduate from college.
GEAR UP 4 LA sophomore Gisselle Delgado-Velarde also earned the 2022 scholarship.
Diamond is a rising junior who aims to graduate as valedictorian of her class, attend medical school and become an oncologist.
“The road will be long and difficult, but I am highly determined to do what it takes to succeed and accomplish my life-long goal, not only for myself but for my family, and especially for my mother; may she rest in peace,” Diamond said.