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KIPP Texas Public Schools is thrilled to share the exciting news that four seniors from the class of 2024 have been named recipients of the prestigious Dave Goldberg Scholarship, each receiving $60,000. This opportunity is made possible through a partnership between KIPP Public Schools and the Sandberg Goldberg Bernthal Family Foundation (SGB) and is a testament to the exceptional talent and dedication of these KIPPsters.
Nicole Isibor, Mercedes Alvarez, Alejandra Larraga-Rodriguez, and Giselle Vazquez-Herrera are among fifteen high-school seniors selected from hundreds of applicants from the KIPP Public Schools network.
“Dave believed every child should have an equal chance to thrive and succeed in this world,” said Sheryl Sandberg, Founder of the Sandberg Goldberg Bernthal Family Foundation. “These Goldberg Scholars reflect the determination, resilience, and hard work that Dave embodied throughout his life. Finding ways to honor him — to do the good he would be doing if he were still with us — means the world to our family. I know Dave would be so proud to see how the program is helping these incredibly talented students have access to the opportunities they deserve.”
The Dave Goldberg Scholarship, named in memory of the late Silicon Valley executive Dave Goldberg, embodies his belief in providing equal opportunities for all children to thrive and succeed. Sheryl Sandberg, Founder of the Sandberg Goldberg Bernthal Family Foundation, emphasizes how these scholars embody the determination, resilience, and hard work that Dave cherished. She notes that supporting these talented students aligns with Dave’s vision of ensuring access to opportunities for all.
Each of the new Goldberg Scholars will receive comprehensive support throughout their four-year college journey, including financial assistance and invaluable mentorship. This support package includes approximately $15,000 per year per student to address various non-tuition needs, ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder their academic pursuits. Additionally, the scholars will benefit from guidance from dedicated Goldberg Mentors and access to a network of professionals through Goldberg Connectors, facilitating valuable internship and job opportunities.
Read more about our scholars below:
Nicole Isibor, a senior at KIPP Houston High School, plans to study health promotion and disease prevention at the University of Southern California. A sickle-cell survivor and volunteer with local cancer organizations, she wants to pursue a career as a pediatric hematologist.
Mercedes Alvarez, a senior at KIPP Austin Collegiate, plans to study bioengineering or mechanical engineering. A former manager of the robotics team, she wants to explore the intersection between medicine and engineering, and increase healthcare equity for underserved communities.
Alejandra Larraga-Rodriguez, a senior at KIPP Austin Collegiate, plans to study mechanical engineering at Vanderbilt University. She hopes to design machinery for aircraft carriers, sustainable energy, and medical devices that will save and heal lives in communities in need.
Giselle Vazquez-Herrera, valedictorian at KIPP Austin Collegiate, plans to study political science at Brown University. A medal-winning track and cross-country athlete, she founded her school’s debate team and aspires to help marginalized communities as an immigration attorney.
The Goldberg Scholarship Program, established in 2017, aims to empower graduating high school seniors from KIPP schools nationwide who embody Dave Goldberg’s values of leadership, resilience, achievement, character, and entrepreneurial spirit. This initiative not only honors Dave’s legacy but also nurtures a new generation of leaders poised to make meaningful contributions to their communities and beyond.
We are so proud of our KIPPsters for their remarkable achievements. Their futures are boundless, and we cannot wait to see the incredible impact they will undoubtedly make!
