East New Mexico News

Clovis Early College High School senior, Apolline Rivera, has been awarded a four-year Thoma Scholars Program scholarship. This scholarship will enable her to attend Texas Tech University starting in the fall of 2025.

The Thoma Scholars Program is designed to improve access to higher education for promising students from rural areas in Northwest Oklahoma, West Texas, and Eastern New Mexico. It provides full coverage for tuition, fees, housing and meals, books, and other educational expenses, including the opportunity to study abroad. Additionally, recipients are supported through career-aspirations coaching, on-campus programming, leadership training, and access to academic support and counseling offered by Texas Tech University.

The Carl & Marilynn Thoma Foundation established the scholarship in cooperation with Texas Tech University and Oklahoma State University. Their goal is to help rural and first-generation students reach their maximum potential.

Rivera has shown outstanding academic achievement and leadership during her time in high school. She is a member of the Wildcat Marching Band, National Honor Society, Leaders2Leaders, and Phi Theta Kappa. Moreover, she is set to receive her associate degree in Mathematics from Clovis Community College in May 2025.

As a beneficiary of the Thoma Scholars program, Rivera will enjoy a broad support system that promotes both academic success and personal growth.

"We are incredibly proud of Apolline Rivera for earning this exceptional scholarship," stated Melissa Winn, Dean of Students at Early College. "This award is a testament to Apolline's hard work and commitment to excellence."

Further details about the Thoma Scholars Program can be found on the Carl & Marilynn Thoma Foundation's website.