Oberlin Selects First Houston Scholars, Expands Leadership Opportunities
This fall, Oberlin College will welcome 20 new Posse Scholars to its dynamic campus, including its first-ever cohort of ten students from Houston. These Scholars mark the beginning of a new partnership between Posse Houston and Oberlin, which has been a Posse Chicago partner for 18 years. The addition of a Houston cohort marks a significant milestone for Oberlin, expanding the number of Posse Scholars it welcomes each year and strengthening its commitment to fostering leadership on campus and for the future of the country.
"Being one of the first Scholars to go to Oberlin from Houston means the world to me," says Posse Houston Scholar Lindsey Nguyen. "My Posse and I have the opportunity to make history. As a first-generation student, I never thought I’d study out of state, but knowing I have a chance to create change inspires me to work hard in college."
As these Scholars prepare for their journeys in Posse’s eight-month Pre-Collegiate Training Program, they will hone their leadership skills and develop the camaraderie that has resulted in Scholars’ high campus engagement and 90% graduation rate.
"I want to be actively involved in creating a vibrant and inclusive campus community where everyone feels comfortable and supported," says Britney Diaz. "I hope to connect with people from different backgrounds and initiate new clubs and volunteer opportunities that strengthen our sense of community."
"The impact I want to have at Oberlin is definitely bringing awareness to Hispanic culture," says Isaac Aguilera. "I am very proud of my culture and my ethnicity, and I hope to share it among the students at Oberlin."
On Jan. 9, Posse Houston celebrated all 62 of its newest Scholars at the annual Award Ceremony, honoring those bound for Bryn Mawr College, Carleton College, Colby College, Oberlin College, Texas A&M University and Vanderbilt University. The event was a momentous occasion, officially welcoming these talented students into the Posse family and recognizing their dedication and achievements.
“We could not be prouder of the intelligent and dynamic students who are a part of the first Houston Posse matriculating at Oberlin. The College has a reputation for developing students who are creative problem-solvers—students who have real capacity to change the world no matter their academic pursuits,” says Posse Houston Director Zakiya Thomas. “We feel confident that our first class will be impactful on campus and in the world.”
Posse Houston is proud to celebrate this historic moment and looks forward to witnessing the lasting impact these Scholars will make at Oberlin and in their future careers.
Since their selection, the new Scholars have been engaged in Posse’s rigorous eight-month Pre-Collegiate Training Program, designed to ensure they are well-prepared to succeed on campus and beyond.
