Parent Teacher Magazine Gaston County Schools January 2014 | Page 6
North Gaston student receives distinguished scholarship
Ernesto Velasquez, a North Gaston High School senior, is the recipient
of the Verizon Hispanic Achievement and Business Leadership Awards
(HABLA) scholarship.
The scholarship valued at $5,000 was presented October 8 at a
luncheon hosted by the Mint Museum of Charlotte. He is one of four
students in the United States to receive this prestigious scholarship.
“The Verizon HABLA Scholarship is presented in an effort to keep
the community moving forward through education and community
involvement,” said Ralph Herrera, president and founder of LANZA Group,
which promoted the HABLA scholarship. “We believe that educating our
youth and providing positive role models and encouragement is the
best path toward future Hispanic achievement and business leadership
success.”
Velasquez is the son of Erneseto Velasquez and Alexandra Aguirre.
He is a member of the men’s soccer team and the marching/symphonic
band. He is president of the Health Occupations Students of America
(HOSA) and Spanish clubs and treasurer of the Beta Club. He attended
the Commissioners School of Excellence and the North Carolina
Governor’s School to study instrumental music.
Velasquez plans to attend UNC Chapel Hill and major in biology and
pursue a career in the medical field.
North Gaston science teacher Elizabeth Leonard said, “Ernesto is a
true role model for other students. He is dedicated to his school and
community. I am extremely proud of his accomplishments and expect
great things from him as he pursues his education at the next level.”
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4 • January/February 2014 • Parent Teacher Magazine
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