From a debater to a playwright, from a district champion in girls’ singles tennis to achieving state solo and ensemble accolades in the band, the inaugural Monty J. and Sarah Z. Bennett Dallas ISD Scholarship recipients embody some of the brightest of the city’s school district.
Five students — Oluwakemi Tytler, Tsion Aredo, Alaiza Segovia, Eva Anderson, and Jeffrey Baker — were awarded $5,000 scholarships by nonprofit Dallas Bright Futures on behalf of Dallas Express publisher Monty Bennett and his wife Sarah.
Each recipient underwent a rigorous application and interview procedure. A scholarship selection committee carefully examined their academic accomplishments, involvement in extracurricular activities, volunteer work, and leadership potential. Additionally, applicants submitted an essay emphasizing their outstanding academic performance, enthusiasm for learning, commitment to community engagement, and leadership skills.
The assessment committee interviewed 20 semifinalists from a group of almost 60 applicants who met or surpassed the necessary level of excellence. Ultimately, Tytler, Aredo, Segovia, Anderson, and Baker were the five students selected.
“The energy each of you have is unique. The determination that you have is inspiring … and we’re so thrilled that you are inaugural Monty J. and Sarah Z. Bennett Scholarship recipients with Dallas Bright Futures,” said Drew Robinson, a member of the selection committee, during a reception held Wednesday to honor the students.
Each of this year’s recipients came from a different Dallas Independent School District campus. Tytler attended North Dallas High School; Aredo, School for the Talented & Gifted at Townview; Segovia, Trinidad Garza Early College High School; Anderson, Irma Lerma Rangel Young Women’s Leadership School; and Baker, Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts.
The funds awarded through the scholarship are intended to support students with tuition, books, or living expenses while pursuing higher education.
“Monty and I [share] a deep love for education and our community,” Sarah, who hosts the DX podcast, explained. “Coming from humble beginnings myself, I know the profound impact of academic dedication and discipline. Equally important were the financial opportunities tied to academics that helped me along the way. I was excited to learn about all of our finalists’ passions and dreams, and I am optimistic about the bright futures awaiting each of them.”
This year’s recipients plan to further their education at respected institutions including Rice University, the University of Texas, the University of Southern California, the University of Texas – Arlington, and Howard University.
The Dallas Express will be featuring these accomplished young scholars in the coming days.