Ron Klemann, President, Camarillo Noontime Optimist Club, provided the above photo of seven outstanding students who were recently awarded scholarships courtesy of the Optimist Club. There was an informational press release that identified the students, left to right, as Zachary Pedersen, Reyna Montoya, Ariana Reyes, Jordan Jennings, Kaytlin Kuns, Leah Ramsaier and Ariana Cortes. Not shown in the picture is Tesara Santora. Scholarship chairperson Joyce Amer is shown third from left.
Each student received a $1,000 scholarship in memory of long-time Optimist Club member Dr. Lynn Merrill Jones. They each presented a brief history and discussed their plans for the future. The recent grads are planning careers in health care. In addition to earning outstanding grades they were active in school activities and community service.
I was especially touched by the picture. The fresh faces and casual style of the students showcases hope and potential. Combined with their spirit of community service, they exemplify what Optimist Clubs stand for. Congratulations and good luck, students.
Thanks to Ron Klemann for the photo and story.