Three high school seniors from Anne Arundel County have been awarded the prestigious Dell Scholars title, recognizing their perseverance and academic dedication through the Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) program. The honorees—Jaydy Mayancela-Chimborazo from Annapolis High School, Ali Shaalan from North County High School, and Cheyenne Reid from Southern High School—will each receive a $20,000 scholarship, along with a laptop and printer to support their college studies.
The Dell Scholars Program, initiated by the Michael and Susan Dell Foundation in 2004, focuses on the grit and potential of students rather than solely their academic scores. It aims to equip scholars with the necessary knowledge, skills, and mindset to navigate and succeed in a continually evolving environment. Unlike traditional scholarship criteria that heavily weigh academic achievements, the Dell Scholars Program prioritizes a student’s determination, future goals, and their proactive approach to overcoming educational and personal challenges.
All three students are participants in the AVID program, which targets students in the “academic middle” to prepare them for college success through extensive career and college exploration. The program’s structured support system is crucial in helping students from diverse backgrounds to access higher education and career opportunities.
Each recipient will use the $20,000 scholarship to fund their tertiary education over six years. Beyond financial assistance, the Dell Scholars Program offers a comprehensive support network, including technology tools, a private scholar community, various learning resources, and mentorship opportunities. These resources are designed to assist students in completing their college education and achieving their long-term career objectives.
The selection of Mayancela-Chimborazo, Shaalan, and Reid highlights their exceptional resilience and commitment to their educational journeys, exemplifying the core values of the Dell Scholars Program. Their stories serve as inspiring examples of how targeted support and recognition can profoundly impact students’ lives, propelling them toward successful futures.
