Alexandra Varo received the *Joyce M. Taylor Eagle Award and a $5,000 college scholarship at the First Tee – Silicon Valley (FTSV) 2024 Invitational fundraiser on July 17th at CordeValle in San Martin, CA. Thank you to our sponsors for supporting our 24-year mission of addressing socio-economic gaps and fostering inclusion. FTSV has served over 100,000 youth, making programs accessible and affordable across Santa Clara County.
Alexandra was recognized for her academic excellence, volunteer work, and First Tee values. She will be the first in her family to attend college, studying Forensic Science at San Jose State University.
Alexandra’s achievements include:
– FTSV participant and volunteer since September 2021
– Selected for the First Tee Game Changers Academy & Leadership Summit
– HS Scholar-Athlete Award: 2021-2023
– President’s Volunteer Service Bronze Award: 2023
– Volunteer math tutor
“I can say that I am a different person now than when I first joined First Tee – Silicon Valley,” says Alexandra. “I consider First Tee – Silicon Valley to be my greatest support system that has given me a place to practice and develop my personal skills.” See below to hear Alexandra share her personal story and how First Tee is helping her on her journey to college and beyond.
Organized by FTSV Board Chairman Victor M. Arrañaga, Jr. and FTSV President & CEO George Maxe, the 2024 Invitational included a Legislative Roundtable with CA Speaker of the Assembly Robert Rivas, CA State Senator Dave Cortese, CA State Senator Steven Bradford, CA Assembly Member Heath Flora, and Santa Clara County Assessor Larry Stone.
George and Victor shared the State of FTSV with the elected officials. Victor said, “The core of what we teach the youth we serve is appreciating diversity, respect, integrity, active listening, and empathy. We are determined in our mission to build character, shape the leaders of tomorrow and inspire them to make our community and the world a better place.”
*Joyce Taylor (1957–2010) was a respected businesswoman and community leader, graduating with honors from the University of Oklahoma. As Senior Vice President at AT&T, she supported the founding of the Eagles at Rancho del Pueblo junior golf program in 2000, which became First Tee – Silicon Valley in 2005, reaching over 100,000 youth. The Joyce Taylor Eagle Award provides college financial assistance to participants excelling academically and demonstrating exceptional character.
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Published: 07-25-24