Rio student Quentin Hawkins, recipient of the Dr. Larry Celaya Memorial Scholarship
Rio student and scholarship recipient Shaniqua Hopkins speaking at the EmpowerED launch celebration
The EmpowerED campaign is a transformative initiative launched by Rio Salado College, the Maricopa Community Colleges Foundation and all 10 of Maricopa Community Colleges to eliminate barriers to education. This $20 million fundraising endeavor underscores the importance of making education accessible for everyone. By providing scholarships and financial support, the campaign is reshaping lives and creating opportunities for students like Quentin Hawkins, who is seeking his bachelor’s degree at Rio Salado College.
Quentin Hawkins’ Journey: More Than a Scholarship
Scholarships represent more than financial aid; they are symbols of encouragement, recognition, and empowerment. Students like Quentin Hawkins embody this sentiment, as their achievements reflect the profound impact of donor generosity. Hawkins’ story highlights how scholarships fuel success, community contributions, and professional aspirations.
A Scholar with a Mission
Hawkins is a dedicated school resource officer and father of four pursuing a Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) in Public Safety Administration at Rio Salado College.
“I thoroughly enjoy my job because I am able to change the outlook on police officers and be a role model to many children that come through our elementary campus,” Hawkins wrote in his scholarship application. “I have the opportunity to interact with the children at a young age and then watch them grow up.”
Hawkins balances job and family responsibilities with his academic goals. His ultimate goal is to advance in his career or take on a critical role in emergency management.
This past fall, Hawkins received the Dr. Larry Celaya Memorial Scholarship, awarded by the Maricopa Community Colleges Foundation, to help with the financial cost of school.
“This scholarship is not only a financial relief but a significant encouragement as I pursue my education at Rio Salado College,” Hawkins wrote. “It enables me to focus more on my studies and extracurricular involvement, rather than the financial burden of tuition and other expenses.”
An avid community member, Hawkins is a veteran of the US Marine Corps Reserves, a youth basketball coach, and an active volunteer in his church.
“Life is always unpredictable and crazy busy whenever you have four kids like myself,” he wrote. “Receiving a scholarship is a life-changing opportunity for me. It not only alleviates some of the financial burden of pursuing higher education but also provides me with the chance to fulfill my dreams and aspirations of receiving my bachelor’s degree.”
How EmpowerED Changes Lives
The EmpowerED campaign addresses critical needs, helping students overcome barriers in the way of their goals. The campaign’s funding priorities include scholarships, emergency aid, and resources for students like Hawkins, who wrote:
“Scholarships are not just monetary aid; they signify recognition of hard work, dedication, and potential. They empower individuals like me to overcome obstacles and achieve academic excellence. I am immensely grateful to the generous donors who make these scholarships possible, as their support enables students like me to shape a brighter future for ourselves and contribute positively to society.”
Rio Salado Initiatives
EmpowerED’s innovative approach tackles obstacles head-on:
- Jo C. Bennett Student Assistance Fund: Cover essentials like groceries, bus fares, and childcare.
- Scholarships for Bachelor’s Degrees: Support high-demand fields like Public Safety Administration and Education.
- Greatest Need Fund: Flexible funding for urgent student needs.
- Dual Enrollment Support: Aid for motivated high school students aiming for college degrees.
- Incarcerated Re-Entry Technology: Funds technology and program costs.
- RioNXT/Open Educational Resources (OER): Supports increasing accessibility to the next generational digital learning environment.
- RSC Tempe Workforce: Supports scholarships and program funds for eligible students.
Every donation to the EmpowerED campaign contributes to life-changing opportunities for students. As Rio Salado College President Kate Smith noted, "Together, we change the world— one life at a time."
FAQs
How does the EmpowerED campaign support students?
EmpowerED provides scholarships, emergency funds, and educational resources to help students overcome barriers and succeed academically.
Who benefits from the EmpowerED campaign?
Students from diverse backgrounds, including those facing financial hardships, single parents, and returning learners, benefit from EmpowerED’s initiatives.
How can I contribute to the EmpowerED campaign?
Donations can be made through Rio Salado College’s EmpowerED online portal. Every contribution supports scholarships, emergency funds, and innovative educational programs.
What impact does my donation have?
Your donation provides direct support to students, enabling them to focus on their studies and achieve their academic and professional goals.
Why are scholarships important for students like Quentin Hawkins?
Scholarships reduce financial burdens, allowing students to concentrate on their education and contribute to their communities without the stress of tuition and other expenses.
The EmpowerED campaign is more than a fundraising effort—it’s a movement to empower individuals, strengthen communities, and build a brighter future. Students like Quentin Hawkins remind us of the transformative power of education and the vital role of donor support. By investing in scholarships, you are investing in lives, dreams, and the future.