NEW ROCHELLE, NY — Yankees legend Mariano Rivera was on hand as Dr. Dorothy Escribano, Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs at The College of New Rochelle announced today the recipient of the second Mariano and Clara Rivera Scholarship at the College. Gianella Solorzano, a resident of New Rochelle and a graduate of New Rochelle High School, was selected to receive the scholarship for being a highly motivated woman with a strong academic record who committed to important outreach work for her school community and is actively involved in her church.
“We are so proud to have Gianella as the recipient of the second Mariano and Clara Rivera Scholarship here at CNR. She brings strengths and skills developed through her accomplishments that will contribute greatly to the College Community. The motivation, community involvement, and commitment to her church that she demonstrates make her a perfect fit with the College’s mission of encouraging students to fully develop their talents, continually seek self-awareness, and help others,” Escribano said.
After witnessing a close friend’s sister coping with bullying, Solorzano started an anti-bullying club at New Rochelle High School in affiliation with the Anti-Defamation League’s “No Place for Hate” Initiative. No Place For Hate, designed to enhance a culture of respect and to create a safe, bully-free learning environment for students, recognizes participating schools for their staff development and student training related to bullying, harassment, and discrimination. Last October, thanks to Solorzano’s efforts, her school won a Gold Star award from the Anti-Defamation League and she was asked to speak at the award reception.
Solorzano, who came to the United States from Peru when she was 4, is also active in her Church youth group.
“It is amazing to get this scholarship. This financial support is a big weight off my shoulders. CNR has felt like home to me since the first day. The Riveras are like mentors to me. I’m looking forward to getting involved on campus. My experience in high school taught me that one person can make a big difference,” said Solorzano.
The Mariano and Clara Rivera Scholarship will cover room and board, tuition, and fees for each of the four years Solorzano attends The College of New Rochelle. To maintain the scholarship, she must meet academic standards set by the College and continue to be active in a community leadership role on campus.