Elgin Hispanic Network honors 2023 high school scholars at ceremony

The Elgin Hispanic Network, in collaboration with Que Crees?, a Colombian/Mexican-infused restaurant in downtown Elgin, celebrated the induction of its 2023 Elgin Hispanic Network High School Scholars at a May 26 ceremony.

The event brought together Elgin Hispanic Network board members, donors, scholars, and their families to recognize the outstanding achievements and potential of the newly inducted scholars.

The scholarship committee carefully selected five exceptional high school seniors out of numerous applications for their demonstrated leadership skills, community service, and talent.

Maria Borrero, awards chair of the Elgin Hispanic Network, expressed her admiration for the scholars, stating, "(The Scholarship Committee) selected five very different high school seniors out of over a dozen applications because they displayed a unique sense of leadership, community service skillset, and talent. Let this be an example that Latino/Hispanic excellence is very present in Elgin."

The Elgin Hispanic Network is proud to present the following students as the 2023 Elgin Hispanic Network High School Scholars:

• Xitxlally Chavez, Elgin High School

• Camila Ramirez Guillen, Larkin High School

• Andrea Jimenez, Elgin High School

• Stephanie Pedroza, South Elgin High School

• Diego Valdivia, Elgin High School

Each scholar's achievements were highlighted during the ceremony, showcasing their academic excellence, extracurricular involvement, leadership roles, and commitment to community service.

Xitxlally Chavez, a dedicated student from Elgin High School, has demonstrated remarkable academic performance while actively participating in sports and various volunteer activities.

Camila Ramirez Guillen, an involved student at Larkin High School, excels in athletics, music, and community service.

Andrea Jimenez, from Elgin High School, has consistently achieved academic excellence while actively participating in extracurricular activities and community service.

Stephanie Pedroza, from South Elgin High School, has shown remarkable dedication to various community roles and activities, contributing to the empowerment of underrepresented students.

Diego Valdivia, a gifted student from Elgin High School, has excelled academically, and athletically, and contributed to volunteer work throughout his high school and college years.

The Elgin Hispanic Network Scholarships were made possible by the generous support of the Siegle Foundation, and EHN members: Mark and Robin Seigle, founders of Seigle's Cabinet Center, deeply rooted in the Elgin-Dundee communities, are committed to making a positive impact in the region. Their philanthropic efforts aim to transform lives and enhance the quality of life in Elgin and Dundee, while also ensuring the success and stability of the nonprofits involved.

Karina Nava, assistant city manager of the City of Elgin and a Siegle Foundation board member, expressed her gratitude, saying, "I received a similar community scholarship when I graduated from Elgin High School, and I know the firsthand difference it can make for a first-generation student and their family. Thanks to the generosity of the Seigle Foundation, I have the opportunity to give back to the community that helped me achieve my goals."

The Elgin Hispanic Network and the Seigle Foundation continue to empower and support deserving students, showcasing the vibrant Latino/Hispanic excellence within the Elgin community.

For more information about the Elgin Hispanic Network and its programs, visit www.elginhispanicnetwork.org.