SALSA (Strategic Alliance for Leadership and Social Action) proudly hosted its first Scholarship Recipients Dinner on May 1, celebrating academic achievement, community involvement, and the bright futures of local students.

The event brought together scholarship recipients, their families, community members, and supporters for an evening of recognition and appreciation. This year, SALSA awarded a total of 15 scholarships, distributing $7,500 to deserving students from Brownwood, Early, Bangs, May, Blanket, and Zephyr.

The dinner served as both a celebration of the students’ accomplishments and a reflection of the strong support system within the community. Attendees enjoyed an evening filled with meaningful moments, including recognition of each recipient’s hard work, perseverance, and commitment to their education.

SALSA representatives emphasized the importance of investing in local students and empowering them to pursue higher education and career goals. “These scholarships are more than financial support; they are a reminder to our students that their community believes in them,” organizers shared during the program.

The success of the evening was made possible through weeks of planning, coordination, and the dedication of SALSA members and volunteers. The overwhelming turnout and positive feedback from attendees highlighted the impact and importance of events like this within the community.

As SALSA continues its mission, the organization remains committed to supporting students and creating opportunities that encourage growth, leadership, and success.

2026 Scholarship Recipients:

Athziry Garcia, Brownwood High School

Wyatt Frank, Zephyr High School

Logan Key, Early High School

Makenzie Willis, Blanket High School

Cloey Petty, Bangs High School

Rex Guerrero, Bangs High School

Mya Gonzalez, May High School

Kadyn Avalos, Brownwood High School

Aeryn Willey, Brownwood High School

Avilene Kuhn, Brownwood High School

Giovanni Diaz, Brownwood High School

Kailey Allenbrand, Brownwood High School

Kaylee Johnson, Brownwood High School

Deja Martinez, Brownwood High School

Jermiah Chacon, Brownwood High School

Donors and Sponsors:

SALSA extends its sincere gratitude to the individuals and businesses whose generous support made these scholarships possible:

Juan Andrade

Mary Torrez

Susie Flores

Sheree Salinas

Julie Gomez

Ruth Mendoza

Giovanna Garcia

Revecca Mendoza

Ray Garza

Deanna & Juan Gonzalez

Diane & Samuel Mendoza

Diana & Antonio Arriaga

Estella & Joey Soto

Law Office of Natalia Lopez

Performance Pipe

Mid-Tex Federal Credit Union

Texas Bank

First Central Credit Union

Citizens National Bank

Common Grounds

Hometown Liquor

Ricochet Oldies & Antiques

Chrysler’s Collision Center

Harbor Freight

Home Depot

Hawk Hill Sales

United Supermarkets

La Botana