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Louis Hernandez Jr.'s Foundation For A Bright Future ("For A Bright Future") ("FABF"), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the needs of underrepresented and underprivileged children through education, healthcare, the arts, and youth leadership development, awarded its 2024 Veterans & Families Scholarship to Ephraim Cho, 19, of Texas and Adrian Villegas, 36, of Arizona.
Ephraim Cho is pursuing a double major in Biochemistry and Applied Math at Yale University, where he will begin his studies in the fall of 2025. Ephraim grew up in San Antonio, Texas, within a home that has faced financial struggles since the 2008 recession. After his father's business was forced to close and his mother was recommended to remain at home due to rheumatoid arthritis, his father enlisted in the military. Unfortunately, the man was injured in the line of duty and became disabled. Ephraim has juggled caring for his father and younger sibling while excelling academically since 2020. With a weighted GPA of 4.67, Ephraim has demonstrated leadership as Team Captain and Co-President of the Science Bowl and as Concertmaster and Composer in his school orchestra. He co-founded the Enlightened Investing Podcast and participates in Track and Field and Cross Country. As a low-income student with immigrant parents, Ephraim's journey is a testament to resilience and determination.
"As a low-income college student, money has frequently been a tough subject for me and my family—this scholarship has not only alleviated some of our worries, it's allowed me access to leadership development and mentorship opportunities that could empower me in my journey towards success and ultimately family contribution,", said Ephraim Cho.
Adrian Villegas is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Arizona College of Nursing, where she is committed to becoming a nurse while balancing the responsibilities of caring for her husband, who has CPTSD, and raising four children. Living in Glendale, Arizona, Adrian is also a self-employed delivery driver for Amazon, managing her schedule while studying. Despite personal challenges, Adrian maintains a 4.0 GPA and is focused on her educational goals. She plans to pursue a master's degree and help veterans, and their spouses navigate challenges after military life. Adrian's journey is marked by perseverance and compassion, excelling academically and professionally while caring for her family and giving back to the community. Her dedication to both studies and family makes her a true testament to resilience.
"'Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement. Nothing can be done without hope and confidence.' These words from Helen Keller reflect my gratitude to For A Bright Future for placing their trust in me by awarding me this scholarship," said Adrian Villegas.
For A Bright Future Foundation was founded by Louis Hernandez, Jr., CEO of Black Dragon Capital℠, a multi-phased investment firm focused on advanced technologies in high-growth segments that strengthen economic stability within communities. Committed to illuminating the path to success, the foundation provides scholarships emphasizing STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts, and Mathematics), financial technology, healthcare, and education. These opportunities are tailored to uplift students from underserved demographics, including single-parent households and families with military backgrounds.
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