It was a beautiful day to welcome the Gale Scholars Class of 2029. After completing a rigorous application process, 12 students emerged as the Gale Scholars Class of 2029.
The annual ceremony, which was held in the Little Theater, celebrated these newly selected students, and we were honored to have guest speakers join us for the program. Gale Scholars Director, Steve Cheeseman, welcomed the students, families, and community members who were in attendance before welcoming the first speaker, Madeline Randol, who is currently a Gale Scholar and is close to graduation from Knox College.
Following Madeline, former Gale Scholar and Executive Director for Habitat for Humanity of Knox County, Elvith Santoyo-McNaught spoke to the students about her experience in the program. Elivith stated, "Class of 2029, this is only the beginning of the long journey that awaits you, but full of opportunities, opportunities to discover who you are, who you want to become, and most importantly, the mark that you want to leave on the world."
Following Elvith, Dr. MarQuita Barker, Vice President for Student Development at Knox College, shared her story and what she overcame to be able to be in the position she is in today. She reminded students, "What you do in life matters, but so does who you impact along the way." She echoed one of the main themes of the Gale Scholars program, the support it provides: "Remember, success is rarely achieved alone. The most meaningful progress in life happens when we lean into our community, when we build strong networks of support, collaboration, and trust. The relationships you build along the journey will not only open doors for you, but they will also sustain you."
Congratulations to the inductees of the Gale Scholars Class of 2029:
Mackenzie Allbright, Darcy Anderson, Isaac Banda, Valeria Chavez, Eriana Dorsey, Ja'Nyah Ferguson, Serenitee Hanley, Amelia Gonzalez, Kameron Kaminski, Thirtsa Mpindi, Sofie Smith, and Ace Stanley.
