Lynwood Resident Recently Named Jackie Robinson Scholar

Lynwood resident Omar Corona Monroy was one of 60 college freshman from around the country chosen as a recipient of the Jackie Robinson Foundation scholarship which helps students financially throughout their four years in college. 

Corona Monroy, who is a freshman biological sciences major at the University of California, Los Angeles, graduated from Lynwood High School this year.

Corona Monroy and the JRF Scholars Class of 2016 were selected from over 1,700 candidates representing 23 States and the District of Columbia.

“We are delighted to welcome this new class of Scholars to the Foundation,” said Della Britton Baeza, President and CEO of JRF.

“They join a 40-year history of excellence and will benefit greatly from our comprehensive mentoring and leadership program. As we guide them through their college years, I am confident that they will both excel professionally and continue in the Foundation’s tradition of public service and civic engagement.”

According to the foundation, each new JRF Scholar receives $24,000 over four years to attend a four year accredited college or university. 

“Jackie Robinson’s courage and passion allows young people like myself to carry on his legacy and prove to the world that minorities are capable of success,” said Corona Monroy.

“He opened doors for the previously discriminated. Being a JRF Scholar is a blessing that puts me a step closer in achieving my dreams.”

In addition to generous financial assistance, the Foundation provides four years of highly engaged, hands-on mentoring through a comprehensive set of support services including curriculum and career guidance, internship and permanent job placement, and practical life skills, resulting in a consistent nearly 100% graduation rate, more than twice the national average for minority students, according to foundation officials.