Funds are distributed over four years, up to $5k per semester
Dallas, TX – Twenty-one North Texas high school seniors collectively received academic scholarships totaling $288,000 over the next four years through the YMCA of Metropolitan Dallas Foundation, as part of the 2026 Annual College Scholarship program.
Selections for scholarships are based on college entrance scores, high school grades, financial circumstances, and alignment with the YMCA’s values of academic achievement, community service, and personal motivation.
“A new generation of leaders is taking shape. These 21 outstanding students have exhibited extraordinary commitment to the investment in their education. We’re inspired by their tenacity and are proud to play a role in their continued success,” said Curt Hazelbaker, President and CEO of the YMCA of Metropolitan Dallas.
Individuals were formally awarded during the College Scholarship Reception on Tuesday, March 31.
“For more than four decades, the Y has been a champion for North Texas students,” said Kathryn Allen, President of the YMCA of Metropolitan Dallas Foundation. “As an organization, what we know is that having a degree benefits our community by higher rates of civic engagement, volunteerism, voter turnout, and healthier communities. This scholarship investment in these students is an investment in the future of our community.”
Scholarship funds were made possible through contributions from:
- The Dye Foundation
- The Fina Foundation
- The Jordan Family Scholarship
- The King-Phipps Foundation
- YMCA Chairman’s Scholarship
In addition, the Vilfordi Family Scholarship benefiting Lake Highlands Family YMCA was introduced this year. This scholarship supports students who balance academic achievement, community involvement, and strong character while working.
2026 COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIP AWARDEES:
- Precious Akhigbe – Vanderbilt University – Dye Foundation Scholarship
- Samara Aletan – Stanford University – Dye Foundation Scholarship
- Finn Nico Barrow – University of Texas Dallas – Dye Foundation Scholarship
- Micaela Donley – Texas Christian University – Dye Foundation Scholarship
- Ariatna Flores – Texas Christian University – Dye Foundation Scholarship
- Nichole Hinostroza – Dallas Baptist University – Dye Foundation Scholarship
- Gabriel Miller – Texas Christian University – Dye Foundation Scholarship
- Yazhini Mohankumar – University of Texas Austin – Dye Foundation Scholarship
- Riley Morriss – University of Tennessee – Dye Foundation Scholarship
- Nancy Nguyen – University of Texas Austin – Dye Foundation Scholarship
- Grace Pesek – Tarleton State University – Dye Foundation Scholarship
- Kevin Pointer – Midamerica Nazarene University – Dye Foundation Scholarship
- Tejomaye Raman – University of Texas Austin – Dye Foundation Scholarship
- Jimena Rosas – Rice University – Dye Foundation Scholarship
- Sarah Spychalski – University of Texas Austin – Dye Foundation Scholarship
- Jake Sullivan – University of Texas Austin – Dye Foundation Scholarship
- Navier Walder – Baylor University – Dye Foundation Scholarship
- Bemnet Wogeta – Emory University – Dye Foundation Scholarship
- Rachael Frazer – Texas Tech University – Lake Highlands Family YMCA Working Scholarship
- Madeline Welling – Texas A&M University – Jordan Family Scholarship
- Magdaline Marcum – Oklahoma State University – King/Phipps Scholarship
About the YMCA of Metropolitan Dallas
The YMCA is one of the nation’s leading nonprofits focused on youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Serving thousands across 17 North Texas communities, the organization provides equitable access to programs that help individuals and families thrive.
For more information, visit www.ymcadallas.org.
About the YMCA of Metropolitan Dallas Foundation
Established in 1996, the Foundation supports the YMCA’s mission through endowment funding. It has grown to over $30 million and distributes more than $1 million annually to support programs for youth and families.
Additional Scholarship Foundations:
Lake Highlands Family YMCA Working Scholarship: Supports students balancing work, academics, and community involvement.
Dye Foundation: Supports higher education access based on motivation, achievement, and financial need.
King & Phipps Foundation: Focuses on improving communities through educational support.
Jordan Family Scholarship: Created by long-time YMCA supporters to benefit students through endowed funding.
FINA Foundation: Supports students pursuing majors in law, math, science, or international business.
Submitted by Nicole Rosales | PR Associate Allyn Media
