Youth Awards
About the Program
The Arapahoe County Mayors and Commissioners Youth Awards (ACMCYA) recognizes teenagers who have overcome obstacles and risen to challenges life has presented. This award is unique because it encompasses youth who live and attend school in Arapahoe County within traditional classroom settings, group homes, alternative schools, and emancipated youth.
Scholarships are awarded to graduating seniors who have overcome adversity and wish to pursue post-secondary educational opportunities at vocational, two- or four-year schools.
Introducing the 2024 Award Recipients
The 2024 award recipients were notified in early May and a ceremony of recognition will be held on May 16, 2024 at the Signature Aviation Hangar, Centennial Airport.
- Ademilayo Dosunmu (Ayo): Cherry Creek High School
- Afton Thompson: Arapahoe High School
- Alissa Daley: Options School
- Amelie Pue: Options School
- Demetrius Lucero: SOAR Academy
- Harlan Ulmer: Arapahoe High School
- Jehidy Ponce Mase: Options School
- Leah Clearwater: Options School
- Leona Ferguson: Gateway High School
- Luciana DiMatteo: Smoky Hill High School
- Mary Ling: Hinkley High School
- Mohammad Hussainkhail: Rangeview High School
- Nevaeh Muniz: Colorado's Finest High School of Choice
- Sadie Steele: Colorado's Finest High School of Choice
- Seiah Hayden: William Smith High School
- Tianshi (Alice) Hale: Options School
Eligibility
- Seniors (grade 12) who live and attend school in Arapahoe County are eligible to receive a post-secondary educational scholarship to be used in 2024.
- Youth related to Arapahoe County employees are not eligible for this program.
Process
The application is to be submitted by a teacher/counselor/school administrator, and not related to the youth. The nominator must provide details on why the student should be considered for the award including, ways in which the student has helped their community and how they have overcome challenges. Nominators will need to attach a student-written 3-paragraph essay describing what they have learned from overcoming challenges, plans for their future and what they hope to accomplish in the years ahead.
A committee comprised of county elected officials (commissioners, mayors, etc.) review applications and make recommendations for awards and scholarships based on the student’s desire to rise above adversity, determination to create positive change within their environment, and the positive contributions and service to their communities and families.
Scholarship amounts and the number of scholarships awarded are determined on a year-by-year basis.
Nomination Deadline
The nomination window is closed.
Program or Sponsorship Questions
Questions about the process or program should be directed to Daniela Villarreal at dvillarreal@zouxigx.net.
