Scholarship winners were recognized at the Dixon Women’s Improvement Club May Luncheon. They are (L-R) Abby Ming, Hayley Yantas, Carol Mejia, Frank Lopez, Emily Cherry-Switzer, Jaya Wartson, Shelby Moody, Nargis Afzali, and DWIC Committee Chair Diane Schroeder. Photo courtesy of Dixon Women’s Improvement Club

DIXON, CA (MPG) - Dixon Women’s Improvement Club began in 1899 with the aim of contributing to the civic and social well-being of the community. At this time, Dixon’s population was 600 and the club membership was 25. The club is responsible for bringing the Carnegie Library to Dixon, the park next to the library, and planting walnut trees south of the town limit to the cemetery. We have been giving scholarships to graduating seniors since 1972.

Our scholarship winners this year shined during our interviews. They all had compelling stories that showed amazing determination to overcome obstacles and hardships. They conveyed realistic plans to achieve their goals. We were impressed with their ability to balance academic achievement with solid school and community involvement.  Besides performing academically, their participation in programs like FFA, Leadership, Key Club, AVID, Public Service Academy, band and athletics developed well-rounded students who will all be successful in life. Thanks to the DHS staff and those who inspired these young people to strive for more.

$1000 scholarships are awarded to:

Shelby Moody - will be attending American River College seeking an AA in Business and then continuing at the University of Montana “delving into Botany.” Shelby is ambitious and very positive. Her goal is to open her own business. She has already seen success in her current business, “Successful Succulents”.

Jaya Wartson - will be attending the University of Arizona. Her interest lies in entrepreneurship. She knows how to run a business. She started her first business in ninth grade with “Helping Hand” and later formed a partnership to run a pool service business. She will be the first person in her family to attend college. Jaya is motivated and prepared for this next chapter.

Emily Cherry-Switzer - will be attending the University of Nevada. She wants to be a teacher and is already tutoring Dixon students. She is a gentle leader and has compassion for others. Emily has demonstrated determination, despite her odds, will ensure her success in college.

Frank Lopez - chose the University of Nevada after an AVID field trip to visit the school. He will be majoring in mechanical engineering. His interest in engineering was inspired by a trip with his grandfather to an NHRA race. He is interested not only in the design and mechanicals of the race cars, but by the chance he may drive one. Frank exudes confidence and is comfortable with public speaking, has a positive attitude and has an appreciation for life. 

 $500 Scholarships Winners:

Karol Mejia - has been accepted at three colleges but is considering Sacramento City College or Solano Community College to pursue a nursing degree. She is the first in her family to attend college. Karol is bilingual, compassionate, and passionate about helping others.

Haley Oscanoa Yantas - plans to attend CSU Northridge to major in medicine. She chose Northridge to be near her aunt, many hospitals, and interning opportunities. After a visit to Peru with her parents, she became aware of the poor health services in that area. Her goal is to become a traveling nurse to help those in need.

Nargis Afzali - Nargis is from Kabul, Afghanistan. In her early years she struggled to overcome cultural differences and a foreign language. She stated that adaptability is one of her strengths.  She is the oldest of four children and sees herself as a role model/mentor for her siblings.  Her strong study habits and dedication to academics make her a strong candidate for success. She now speaks four languages. Nargis is hoping to attend UC Davis to pursue her dream of working in the field of women’s health.

Abbie Ming - will be attending Solano Community College and then transferring to a four-year college to major in medicine with a strong interest in radiology. In addition to her heavy commitment to athletics and FFA, she has become a leader and remains active in community service.  Her older sister who is also majoring in nursing has been her inspiration and mentor.