The Phenomenal Student Jonathon Gonzales: Scholarship in Hand

West Las Vegas High School student Jonathon Gonzales received a scholarship last month from the New Mexico Activity Association Foundation. The "Together We Rise" scholarship is sponsored by Por Vida Tattoo of Albuquerque at 500 4th Street.

After winning the award, Jonathon's words of advice to his fellow underclassmen were,

"Stay as busy as possible because that'll keep you away from the bad things," and "Don't regret nothing, live life to its fullest."

Jonathon Gonzales with scholarship in hand, surrounded by the incredible staff from the NMAA. This photo is at the Dreamstyle Arena on the University of New Mexico campus. The presentation was during the halftime show for the girls state basketball game.

The Foundation’s scholarship program has provided $415,000 in funding to over 300 students at over 100 NMAA member schools. Selections are based on participation and achievement in athletics and/or school activities, academic performance, and evaluation of personal statements. Each year the NMAA Foundation receives between 200 and 300 scholarship applications, and Jonathan was about one out of ten applicants chosen for the award. The NMAA Foundation is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that was established in 2007 to financially support the many students that participate in high school athletic and student activity programs across New Mexico.

Eligibility Criteria for the Together We Rise Scholarship:

*Candidate must be a participant within a “large school.” This would be a school that falls within class 3A to class 5A.

*Must be a graduating senior who actively participated in at least one of the sports and at least one of the activities listed throughout his/her high school career.

*Must have a GPA of at least 3.5.

*High school transcript must be submitted.

*ACT and/or SAT score must be listed on the application.

*Must submit a one page personal statement addressing the question asked inside the application.