Meet ten remarkable seniors who were celebrated this week at the Perseverance Awards from the Bend-La Pine Education Foundation.

Coming from La Pine High School, Bend Tech Academy, Bend Senior High, Summit High, and Bend's first graduating class at Caldera, the students all have a story of resilience. Also, they will all be attending colleges and universities across Oregon thanks to the Axel F. Hoch Legacy Scholarships.

The unique scholarship is an ongoing partnership with the students through their college careers, "topping off" higher education expenses so they can remain debt-free. The Perseverance Awards have existed since 2014 but since the addition of funds from the Mayantigo Charitable Foundation, the scholarship can be awarded to TEN seniors this year offering a commitment through their college careers.

The scholarship is also available to students heading to trade schools!

Students, thank you for showing us what true perseverance looks like. You inspire us and we wish you great success. We can't wait to see where you'll go!

Congratulations to the following students!

• Luis Anguiano (Bend Senior High) - attending University of Oregon in the fall
• Valeria Ibarra Cruz (Caldera High) - Oregon State University
• Marlen Dominguez Gonzalez (Caldera High) - University of Oregon
• Valerie Santizo Hernandez (Caldera High) - University of Oregon
• Chloey Leonard (La Pine High) - Central Oregon Community College
• Deakon Looney (La Pine High) - Southern Oregon University
• Elayna Marzonie (Bend Tech Academy) - Central Oregon Community College
• Kim Montes (Caldera High) - University of Oregon
• Jordan Moreno (Summit High) - Oregon State University
• Ella Tadjiki (Bend Senior High) - Central Oregon Community College