Leona Valley Sertoma Recognizes Achievement in Academic Excellence

Once again, Leona Valley Sertoma has invested and recognized one graduating, Antelope Valley College student who has majored in “deaf studies”.  April Rock and I had the honor of screening this years’ recipient, Stosha Coley, who’s objective is to fully certify as an ASL interpreter for the Los Angeles superior court system.  While raising two children on her own, Stosha managed to obtain a 3.24 academic score, as well as being considered an excellent student with superior ethics and skills.  After meeting Stosha at the “Meet and Greet” breakfast, hosted by the Antelope Valley College Scholarship Foundation, April and I knew immediately that Stosha truly represents the achievement in academic excellence we look for in our applicants.

Our Sertoma members value our recipients choices, lives, dreams and specific goals pertaining to our “deaf studies” criteria and our mission is to make a major impact in their future.  Our hope is for the student to always consider our “Service to Mankind” motto as a beacon for public service to help better the lives of others.

I feel that it is quite important to share the mission of Antelope Valley College, as I truly believe that they and Sertoma have the same pride in our graduating college students.  That being said, we both accomplish an end result by providing a quality and comprehensive education for a variety of students who want to continue learning. We both agree to commit to a students success, offering value and opportunity for ALL members of our community.  Sertoma’s offer is the same quality that we strive to achieve regarding our local high school graduates.

Since the Antelope Valley College’s founding in 1929, the needs of students have been more than a priority and have been provided both academic and athletic programs.   Their provisions have been associate degree programs, certificate programs and transfer programs that prepare students to continue their education at four-year colleges and universities.

The Antelope Valley College Foundation is a non-profit, tax exempt 501 (c)(3) corporation committed to increase resources and funds.  The Foundation was established in 1993 and is designated to receive gifts for the college from individuals, corporations and foundations.  Leona Valley Sertoma became involved with the Scholarship Foundation in 2013 and has had the honor of fulfilling many goals and dreams by awarding $1,000 annually to one chosen student who is majoring in deaf studies.

It is best said, that “lives are enriched and futures continue to be built for generations”.

Proudly written and submitted by Jan Clark