YOUTH TESTIMONIALS
SEBASTIAN RODRIGUEZ
2023 RDF Scholarship | Pacific University, Oregon
“I am extremely grateful that the Rod Dedeaux Foundation chose to be a part of my process of growth and development in college. Their support allows for me to achieve my goals and stay focused so that one day I can grow into an individual that can give back to this generous organization!! Thank you again Rod Dedeaux Foundation!”
ALYSSA QUARY
2023 RDF Scholarship | New York University, New York
“Receiving this scholarship has been a tremendous honor and privilege. It has lessened part of the financial burden that often accompanies pursuing a higher education allowing me to fully dedicate myself to my studies and explore the vast field biological engineering. The program’s belief in my potential has empowered me to pursue my dreams without constraints, and for that, I am very grateful. Not only has the scholarship lightened the weight of financial obligations, but it has also motivated me to strive for excellence in my field. The opportunities and resources made available to me through this scholarship have will open doors to unique learning experiences, internships, and research projects that further deepen my understanding of this study. Moreover, this scholarship has provided me with a sense of community and support. Knowing that there are individuals who believe in the value of education and invest in the future generation of engineers encourages purpose and determination. As I continue my studies at New York University, I am committed to maximizing the impact of the scholarship. From the great support, I am determined to graduate equipped with the skills, knowledge, and drive necessary to make a meaningful contribution to the field. I am truly honored to be a recipient of the organization’s support, and I am excited to making the most of this incredible opportunity.”
NATHAN MAXWELL
2019 RDF Scholarship | CSU Monterey Bay
“I just wanted to email you in regards to how college life is, my first semester. Currently, I just finished my fall semester at CSUMB. I've taken 5 classes with 15 units and so far 3 classes have been confirmed with A’s. I've done many clubs that included club volleyball and black student union. I recently just received a job at a CineMark and hopefully earn enough money to buy myself a car. Next year I plan on being a Residential Advisor where I would be the head of my floor and make sure everyone is ok and helping freshmen throughout their first year of college. Thank you again for allowing me to continue my education with your organization, I couldn't do it without you guys.”
McKENZIE WILSON
2018 RDF Scholarship | Fresno State
“I would like to extend my gratitude to the Dedeaux Foundation, The Dedeaux Family, Kennedy Wilson, and the host of supporters who ALL helped me live a dream.
I finished my freshman year as a Fresno State Bulldog. I worked hard on the field, in the classroom, and became part of another incredible community here in the Central Valley. All in part due to the support of my community in Southern California. I feel blessed and uplifted. I'm humbled and incredibly grateful for this honor thank you so much. This has been a world wind of a year, with firsts, endings and new beginnings.
This means so much to me. Mr. Dedeaux, his family, and Foundation's continued commitment to community outreach and education serve as an example and template for me. I'm both encouraged and motivated to use this as a platform to continue efforts to make lasting, productive, and effective community connections.”
CHASEN WILSON
2015 RDF Scholarship | Pomona College
“Now that the challenges of my last year of college are over, challenges that included finals, rigorous coursework and completion of a senior thesis, I am able to reflect on my entire collegiate experience. There were certainly good times, I established life-long friendships, and of course, I learned so much about myself and the world. I was able to explore, question, and learn in an environment that encouraged students to look at the world, their relationship to it, and then tasked to make the world better. I was introduced to scholars, scientists, entrepreneurs and artists who were passionate about teaching and making a difference in the world. I was challenged intellectually and socially.
College was an incredible 4 years, but I now am looking toward the future. I am excited about all of the possibilities. I feel the sky is the limit. I was able to secure employment with a middle market financial firm in Los Angeles. The company is a middle market-focused, specialty finance firm that provides senior debt solutions to companies across all industries. The company provides a broad array of products intended to finance growth and manage working capital for companies. The work is challenging and fast paced, but I am taking every opportunity to learn all aspects of the business. My ultimate goal is to parlay all I learn at my job, lend my knowledge to young people, teach financial literacy and ways to create and grow business capital. It will be my way of giving back and making a difference.
Of course, each accomplishment or opportunity begins with a goal, vision or dream and only develops and grows with hard work support, encouragement, and assistance from others. I am proud to say, I have an incredible support system. Beginning with my parents, and including teachers, professors, coaches, friends, community leaders, and community organizations. I am so thankful to each and every one. I would like to extend a special thank you to The Dedeaux Family, The Dedeaux Foundation and Kennedy Wilson, because of their practical support, I was afforded the opportunity to accomplish my goal, vision, and dream of attending college. Attending college and graduating from college was the first chapter in what I consider my book of success. Thank you for supporting my dream. I will be forever grateful.”
ARIS METCALFE
2015 RDF Scholarship | San Diego State
“Thanks so much for reaching out. This past year/semester was great! I graduated in May with a Bachelor's degree in Interdisciplinary Studies focusing on Sociology, Africana Studies, and Economics. I had a great academic year and softball year. My best by far in both areas! My GPA this year led me to earning a Scholar Athlete Award and All Mountain West Academic Team. I had my best softball season starting in games for at least half of the season and making great plays in the outfield. One of my biggest accomplishments this year was also earning scholarship money from my coaches, a decision based on my work ethic and attitude over the past three years. Along with that I was also awarded the teams' "Coaches' Award" for the third year in a row, also a decision based on attitude and effort put forth. I was super blessed to be able to attend school at SDSU the last four years and for the opportunity to play softball there.
Right after graduation, I moved across the country to New York City to intern at the MLB headquarters (Office of the Commissioner). I have been here all summer working with the Baseball and Softball Development Department. I get to travel across the country and change kids' lives so it's pretty cool. The internship will be over soon so now I am in the process of applying for jobs and seeing what the future holds. I plan on staying within the sports industry and hopefully working with the youth and baseball/softball. My dream is to find a job that gets me excited to wake up every morning and go to work doing something I love. Coaching seems like the best fit for me right now because I have so much energy and life I'm eager to share with those younger than me.
I just want to thank this foundation for all you guys have done for me over the past few years. My financial burdens were lifted a ton by what was provided to me through this scholarship. To all the donors and anyone who was involved in making my life easier, I'd like to especially thank you for your generosity and support. I honestly don't know what I would've done without everyone there willing to invest in my future. I am forever grateful.”