The Shops at Mission Viejo, with Management Company, Awards Scholarship to Local Student

Mission Viejo, CA--A local student will continue their education this fall with the help of The Shops at Mission Viejo and Simon Youth Foundation (SYF).

Lindsey Southworth, of San Juan Capistrano, has received a Simon Youth Foundation Community Scholarship valued at $7,700.

"The scholarship is awarded in partnership between The Shops at Mission Viejo and Simon Youth Foundation (SYF)," the organization said. "The national non-profit organization dedicated to providing educational and career development opportunities for youth."

Southworth is a recent graduate of Capistrano Valley High School and exemplified herself through academic excellence, leadership skills, and participation in both school and community activities.

She plans to study psychology at Saddleback Community College in the fall.

“We are very proud of the Simon Youth Scholarships program, because it has given us the opportunity to support the academic endeavors of promising youth right here in our community,” says Patsy Sanquist, director of marketing and business development at The Shops at Mission Viejo.

Among the 150 stores and restaurants at The Shops at Mission Viejo, the indoor mall features Nordstrom, H&M, Macy's, Apple, Sephora, and The Cheesecake Factory. The Shops at Mission Viejo serves many nearby communities such as Ladera Ranch, Rancho Santa Margarita, Coto de Caza, San Juan Capistrano and the city of Mission Viejo.

Simon Youth Scholarships are awarded annually to at least one student in every U.S. community that is home to a Simon® property. Simon Youth Foundation is a national nonprofit based in Indianapolis and is rated as a Four Star Charity by Charity Navigator. It exists to help at-risk students who are on the verge of dropping out of high school stay in school.

Through 26 Simon Youth Academies in 12 states and Simon Youth Scholarships, SYF advocates, creates and initiates educational opportunities for students by creating learning environments primarily inside Simon malls. In partnership with local public schools, SYF has maintained a 90% graduation rate at its Academies since inception, graduated more than 13,000 students, and awarded more than $15 million in scholarships. Learn more at syf.org.

This year, approximately $1.3 million will be awarded.

“Simon Youth Community Scholarships reward academic excellence across the country and help students to continue their education,” said J. Michael Durnil, President and CEO of SYF. “Financial concerns should never be the reason preventing a child from pursuing their dreams.”