Shining a Spotlight on Success: Our 2025-26 Student Celebration

We were thrilled to recognize our 2025-26 Scholarship Fund recipients during our Second Annual Student Celebration on March 23^rd at Merten Hall on the George Mason University campus. This impactful event brings together our scholarship recipients, their families, GMU staff, and Scholarship Fund supporters for a night of inspiration and connection.

Honoring our Scholars & Continuing a Partnership

Our evening centers on celebrating our incredible scholarship recipients and recognizing their hard work and achievements, as well as their goals for the future. It is so rewarding to hear firsthand how our Fund helps deserving students achieve their academic dreams. From business and biology to engineering and nursing, our recipients are bringing their best to their future fields, and we are so proud to provide support!

We were also thrilled to continue our partnership with the GMU Mason LIFE program for a second year, a transformative initiative that empowers students with intellectual and developmental disabilities. This collaboration has been so fulfilling, and we look forward to uplifting more students in the years to come.

Sharing the Impact

Scholarship Fund President Connie Colabatistto kicked off the evening with a heartfelt welcome speech, emphasizing the power of community and the importance of supporting students on their journeys to higher education. Her words served as a reminder of why we uplift our students—to invest in education, celebrate excellence, and sow the seeds of success for our future.

Women's Club of Great Falls Scholarship Fund Board President Connie Colabatistto kicks off the evening

We were honored to welcome two distinguished guest speakers: Dr. Ingrid Guerra-Lopez, Dean of the College of Education and Human Development, and Dr. Alpachino Hogue, Executive Director of the GMU Early Identification Program. Dr. Hogue shared heartfelt and emotional remarks about his journey as a first-generation college graduate and what inspired him to pursue a career in academia.

Dr. Ingrid Guerra-Lopez, Dean of the College of Education and Human Development at George Mason University

Dr. Alpachino Hogue, Executive Director of the GMU Early Identification Program

A Night of Connection & Celebration

After the speeches, guests mingled with our network of mentors, shared stories, and celebrated the hard work that brought our students together. Scholarship recipients and their families had the chance to meet supporters and community members whose support makes our mission possible. The night was full of opportunities to create connections, explore legacies, and share gratitude.

Members of the Women's Club of Great Falls Scholarship Fund Board pose with the 2025-26 Scholarship Fund Cohort

Looking Ahead

We extend our deepest gratitude to everyone who attended and contributed to making this event such a success. Our Student Celebration is an invaluable moment to honor achievements, strengthen bonds, and set the stage for future growth.

As we continue to support students on their educational journeys, your generosity makes a lasting impact. Every donation helps fund scholarships that empower students to achieve their dreams. We couldn’t do it without you! Learn more about our mission.