Canfield senior in running for big scholarship

January 1, 2011 at 12:00a.m.

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VELASQUEZ

By ABBY SLANKER

Gia Velasquez, daughter of Kevin and Sharon Velasquez and a senior at Canfield High School, has been named a semifinalist for the 2011 Class of the Coca-Cola Scholars Program.

Velasquez ranks with approximately 2,100 high school seniors who are in the running for $3 million in college scholarships the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation will award in spring 2011. Students are selected to advance to this next phase based on the academic excellence, leadership and achievement demonstrated in school and community activities.

“I was surprised to learn that out of 70,000 applicants, I would be included in the 2,000 semifinalists. I am really honored to be selected,” Velasquez said.

As semifinalists, students must submit additional information that will be reviewed by a committee comprised of 30 educators from high schools and universities throughout the country.

If she advances, Velasquez will be among 250 finalists who will travel to Atlanta April 14-17, to attend the Coca-Cola Scholars Weekend. During their visit, they will attend a final interview process that will determine whether they are designated as either a national or regional scholar.

The 50 National Scholars will each receive $20,000 scholarships, while the 200 regional scholars will receive $10,000 scholarships. Two additional $20,000 scholarships are awarded by the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation, including the Coca-Cola Emory Scholarship and the Sandy Williams Alumni Legacy Scholarship.

The Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation, a joint effort of Coca-Cola Bottlers across America and The Coca-Cola Company, is one of the largest corporate-sponsored, achievement-based scholarship programs of its kind in the United States.

Velasquez is a member of the Canfield High School varsity swim team and is a four-year varsity letterman. She is the school record holder in the 100 breaststroke and medley relay and is a three-year All American Conference swimmer.

She is also a football cheerleader and is a varsity letterman. She is a member of the CHS Drama Club and had the lead role in “Bruce and Tina’s Wedding” in November 2010.

Velasquez has also given back to the Canfield community through volunteer opportunities.

“I have focused my volunteer commitments on serving persons who are handicapped, under privileged, or struggling. Truthfully, they have given me more than I have ever given them. Their spirit and work ethic are a true inspiration,” Velasquez said. “My philosophy is: We are all a part of a community, and you have to give back when you can.”

Velasquez has given some serious thought to her post-high school aspirations.

“I plan to earn an undergraduate degree in either history or chemistry, and eventually attend law school,” she said.

This year, Velasquez was also named as a National Merit Commended Scholar.