Melissa Casteneda, Envision Academy
College: San Jose State University
Melissa is Envision Academy’s 2017 winner of the Jackie Robinson Scholarship Award.
Driven and persistent, Melissa Casteneda does not shy away from challenging situations. On the contrary: she meets those challenges by pushing herself beyond her comfort zone and getting things done. She is also clear about her vision for herself and for the kind of society she would like to help create.
This year, she saw a news report about the war in Syria, which included some devastating images of the children who are particular victims in this war. She took it upon herself to collect money from our student body to donate to the International Rescue Committee. Within a matter of days, she had collected hundreds of dollars because of her compelling testimony to Envision Academy students about why it is important for us to help.
Melissa will attend San Jose State University next year to continue her education and advocacy.
ABOUT THE JACKIE ROBINSON SCHOLARSHIP
- Be first in their family to go to college;
- Deliver an outstanding graduation Portfolio and Defense;
- Exemplify a commitment to service and leadership;
- Plan on attending a 4-year college or university in the fall after graduation.