Believing And Achieving: HOPE’s Class Of 2013 By Heather O’Mara and Ruth Márquez West
HOPE’s Graduating Class of
2013 celebrated the commencement of a new journey on Thursday, May 23rd on the Auraria Campus. A “believing and achieving” theme prevailed throughout the evening in speeches, remarks and a special HOPE choir performance of “I Believe.” Yecenia Torres Zavala, who earned her diploma through a special HOPE program for young mothers, conveyed her pride in exceeding the expectations of those who underestimated her commitment. In her student address, she declared “I now know that, with dedication and hard work, anything is possible.” Valedictorian Colton Royer encouraged his classmates by pointing out that, “sometimes, that second time
Yecenia Torres Zavala
Colton Royer
Mario Martinez
means we win – and that second chance will give us the courage to take on our next big dream.” For many HOPE graduates, like those whose stories are summarized below, HOPE affirms their potential and their dreams. They remind us, as the late Christopher Reeve said, “Once you choose hope, everything’s possible.” Mario Martinez wanted to quit during his final college-readiness exams but triumphed with determination. Prior to his enrollment in HOPE, Mario was on a self-imposed hard road after yielding to bad influences. He is grateful to have awakened in time to avoid the sad consequences in the lives of his former friends. A first generation graduate and a serious musician, Mario shares his talents at area churches and events. Jakayla Romero’s family relocated to Colorado to join her extended fami-
Jakayla Romero
ly members of educators, when they opened a HOPE Learning Center. Jakayla plans to be an OB/GYN doctor, supported by her advanced math and science skills. A former captain of her volleyball, basketball and softball teams, Jakayla is a proven leader. Her grandmother and mother, both teachers, are her role models. Lonesha Giles is excited to begin classes at Adams State College in the fall, where she hopes to run track and begin work toward a degree in nursing. Academically advanced in her studies, especially math and science, Lonesha was also a leader in community service, serving as her Learning Center’s student council president. Her athletic talent was an asset to several high school teams. Colton Royer -Colton is a nevergive-up achiever in life, academics,
Lonesha Giles
Isaiah Ray Maderas
music and sports. His father, grandparents, coaches, teachers and mentors applaud his heart and pure effort. Colton overcame obstacles to become HOPE’s valedictorian. He is also a sought-after baseball pitcher, remembering to “give back” by coaching young athletes. The multi-talented graduate also won this year’s “HOPE’s Got Talent!” competition. Isaiah Ray Maderas – Isaiah Ray sees all his difficulties as advantages. He is enrolled in the Paul Mitchell salon training program, where he will follow the generations-long family tradition of hair care. Isaiah Ray is gifted in writing and excels academically in almost all his subjects. He is committed to reaching out to encourage others, following the example of his Learning Center leaders, Joey and Annette Trujillo.
Introducing Breakfast After Midnight. Perhaps the greatest invention in the history of ever. McDonald’s introduces Breakfast After Midnight. Yes, you read that right. And yes, this is the most incredible thing to ever happen, ever. So now, in addition to the regular menu you can get after midnight, you can get some of your favorite breakfast items as well. Breakfast After Midnight. ®
breakfast after midnight 12 A.M. TO 4:00 A.M. Many restaurants serving Breakfast After Midnight. Participation varies. Limited time offer. ©2013 McDonald’s
Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – July 2013
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