Get the know the 2026 Aspiraciones Más Grandes scholars! These nine Newton County graduating seniors have been selected as recipients of Newton Education Foundation’s 2026 Aspiraciones Más Grandes Scholarship, funded by Rose and Travis Collins. Each student will receive $3,000 to support their first year of college.
Photo credit W Rodriguez Photography.
Morgan Bennett will be attending Jackson State University in the fall with plans to pursue a degree in a STEM field, with a focus on chemistry, forensic science, or criminal justice. Morgan was a member of the band at Newton High School, where she developed discipline, teamwork, and perseverance. Beyond her career, Morgan hopes to start a nonprofit organization supporting Black and Latino students interested in STEM, creating pathways and opportunities for those who may lack access to guidance and resources.
From her teachers:
I’m incredibly proud of Morgan and her growth as a musician and young adult. She came into our band program her freshman year just as any other shy 9th grader who was trying to navigate a new environment and find her place. Morgan quickly acclimated herself to the band and emerged as one of our strongest leaders. She is driven, focused, and ready to take on any challenge ahead of her. Morgan has become a respectable young lady that has a clear vision for her future. – Jason Smith, Director of Bands, Newton High School
It has been an absolute honor getting to know Morgan over the past year. She is an exceptional student. From her incredible musical abilities, her professionalism she shows assisting in the front office, her dedication to her studies and the kindness that she shows to everyone around her. As one chapter is ending and she begins the next she will truly be missed and I wish her nothing but the best! – Candice Lee, Front Office, Newton High School
Morgan Bennett is an outstanding young lady! She is very open-minded, curious, and carries herself with a quiet strength. I’m excited to hear about Morgan’s triumphs and accomplishments in her future endeavors. – Marcus Lee, Economics Teacher, Newton High School
From Morgan:
Something people might not know about me is that I was given a second chance at having a strong mother figure in my life. When I was six years old, my mom passed away, and that loss deeply affected my family. Eventually, my stepmother stepped in and became a steady, supportive presence, providing me and my sister with the structure and encouragement we needed to thrive. That experience taught me resilience and continues to motivate me to succeed — not only for myself, but for everyone who has believed in me.
Keren Diaz-Oliva will be attending Emory University in the fall with plans to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and pursue a career in pediatrics, with hopes of eventually becoming a nurse practitioner. The daughter of a hardworking immigrant mother, Keren graduated in the top 10% of her class and held a leadership role in her school’s HOSA chapter. She was also active in Latino Student Union, Amigos Unidos, Beta Club, and National Honor Society, and volunteered at her local hospital. Keren is committed to giving back to her community and using her education to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
From her teachers:
Keren is a second year Work-Based Learning senior who completed the healthcare pathway. She interned at Piedmont Newton Hospital in the Junior Volunteer Program where she worked in Wound Care. She is also involved in several other organizations such as Beta Club, Amigos Unidos (treasurer), HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America) and the Latino Student Union. Keren has been very methodical in planning her future. She is incredibly intelligent and has a weighted GPA of 4.0 and is in the top 10% of her graduating class at Newton High School. Additionally, she is an AP Scholar, Georgia Merit Scholar and received NCCA’s Trainer’s Choice Award for Healthcare. The Trainer’s Choice Award is very competitive and prestigious. In addition to her studies, she is continually active in clubs and within the community. She has assisted with HOSA Blood Drives, Rivers Alive Cleanup, and a Patient Party at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, to name a few. I admire her ability to multi-task and maintain such a high GPA. – Debra Lary, Work-Based Learning, Newton County Schools
Keren is a compassionate and dedicated student whose genuine commitment to serving others is evident in everything she does. She has a strong enthusiasm for healthcare, a desire to care for others, and a drive to make a difference. Her hard work in the classroom, her leadership in HOSA, and her time as a Junior Volunteer at Piedmont Newton throughout high school have further exhibited these qualities and have helped set her apart from her peers. Keren’s caring spirit and her passion are going to help her excel in her future at Emory Oxford and beyond. – Felisha Wagner, Newton College and Career Academy
From Keren:
My favorite thing about the time I’ve spent in Newton County is the lifelong relationships I’ve built and the opportunities I’ve been given. The close-knit feel of the community has kept me supported and connected throughout my high school journey, and I’m especially grateful to Newton College and Career Academy for helping shape who I am today.
Iris Escobar-Castro will be attending Kennesaw State University in the fall with plans to pursue nursing, specializing in labor and delivery. Iris volunteered at Piedmont Newton Hospital during her high school years, stepped outside her comfort zone to try new things, and stayed focused on her academic goals throughout. She hopes to one day become a nurse midwife and advocate for women’s health and family planning.
From her teachers:
Iris is a second year Work-Based Learning student who interns at Piedmont Newton Hospital in the Junior Volunteer Program. She is passionate about helping others, which is why she chose to complete the healthcare pathway. In addition to her role at the hospital, Iris also works as an English translator at Lowe’s in Conyers. Her employer shared that she makes customers feel welcome, and they are appreciative of her impeccable work ethic. – Debra Lary, Work-Based Learning, Newton County Schools
Iris is a student who is passionate about healthcare, and that is evident in her actions. She has demonstrated this through her devoted work as a Junior Volunteer at Piedmont Newton Hospital and her active involvement in HOSA. Iris has a bright future in healthcare because of her empathetic nature and her sincere care for other people. She works hard and exhibits a strong attention to detail. Iris is going to have a meaningful impact on healthcare and her community. – Felisha Wagner, Healthcare Science Teacher, Newton College & Career Academy
From Iris:
My favorite thing about my time in Newton County has been the friendships and connections I’ve made, as well as the support I’ve received from my teachers and the broader community.
Something people might not know about me is that I enjoy crocheting in my free time, especially making animal plushies. I love creating them and giving them to others, which makes it all the more meaningful.
Leilani Garcia will be attending Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College in the fall with plans to earn a bachelor’s degree in animal science and go on to veterinary school. Leilani played varsity softball from her freshman through senior year, performed at the Porter Auditorium for Hispanic Heritage Month, and earned the Trainer’s Choice Award from Chef Quinlan at Newton College and Career Academy. She hopes to one day travel the world helping veterinary clinics in need and caring for animals across the globe.
From her teachers:
Leilani is a wonderful student and is vital to our front office as an aide. She is an incredibly hard worker, is self-motivated and takes pride in her work. She is always smiling and has the best disposition. I am going to miss her terribly but I am so excited for what the future holds for her. I know she will go on to do great things and achieve the goals she has set for herself! – Heather McCullough, Front Office Clerk, Newton College and Career Academy
Leilani is the embodiment of “hard work pays off.” She approaches every challenge with determination, focus, and a willingness to grow, never settling for less than her best. Whether faced with obstacles or opportunities, she consistently puts in the time and effort required to succeed. Her journey is a testament to perseverance, showing that success isn’t given; it’s earned through dedication, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to her goals. Through her actions, Leilani proves that when you stay disciplined and believe in the process, the results will follow. – Chef Quinlan, Culinary Arts Instructor, NCCA
From Leilani:
My favorite thing about my time in Newton County is the countless connections I’ve made, as well as the incredible trainers and administrators at NCCA who supported me throughout my high school career. I also love spending time with my family down at the Covington square and walking around.
Something people might not know about me is that I’ve been playing softball for eleven years. I’ve played catcher and first base for Newton High School since the eighth grade, earning awards like Best Defensive Player and hitting my first-ever home run along the way.
Jaquelin Garcia-Luna will be attending Kennesaw State University in the fall with plans to study Architecture and become a successful architect. Jaquelin will graduate with honors and served as an officer in Eastside High School’s Interact Club for three years, holding the roles of Treasurer and then Vice President. She dreams of one day designing her own home and filling it with cats and treasures.
From her teachers:
I have had the pleasure of teaching Jaquelin visual art in high school as well as during her time as an elementary student. Throughout the years, she has consistently demonstrated an originality in her thinking and a strong, creative spirit. Jaquelin is a talented artist with exceptional observational skills and a keen attention to details. Beyond her artistic abilities, she is thoughtful, empathetic, and kind-qualities that make her a valued friend and a positive collaborator in any group setting. It has been truly rewarding to watch Jacquelin grow and I am confident that she has a bright future ahead with limitless potential. – Melissa Parker, Art Teacher, Eastside High School
Jackie impresses me with her insight, creativity, and dedication. She has served as the treasurer and vice president of Eastside’s Interact Club. She wants to use her gifts as an artist to become an architect and design a more beautiful, connected world. – Kelly Shaughnessy, Language Arts Teacher, Eastside High School
From Jaquelin:
My favorite thing about Newton County is how calm it is and how close-knit the community feels.
Something people might not know about me is that I am someone who deeply values creativity and the arts.
Iv’Yana Juarez-Olguin will be attending Penn State University in the fall with plans to pass the BAR and become a litigation lawyer. Iv’Yana hosted her own mental health awareness program at Newton High School, an initiative she loved so much she continued it in the following years.
From her teachers:
Iv’Yana or Yani, as we know her, is a joy. She brightens every room she walks into, and her presence always comes with a sense of helpfulness and joy. I have known Yani for a couple of years and her dedication to her education and helping others is how I know she is going to be successful in all of her future endeavors. – Serrita Carr, Work Based Learning Coordinator, Newton High School
Iv’Yana Juarez-Olguin will be attending Penn State in the Fall with plans to become a Lawyer. She is a member of the ALANHS program and a student athlete at Newton High School. Iv’Yana’s dedication to succeed is one of the most impressing things about her. In light of the challenges she’s faced in life, she uses her resilience and dedication to ask questions while coming up with solutions to make things happen. NHS is very proud of her, and we’re all excited to watch her flourish at the next level. – William Walker, School Counselor, Newton High School
From Iv’Yana:
My favorite thing about Newton County would be the Christmas parades — from watching them as a young child to actually being in the parade itself.
Something people might not know about me is that I love to bake while it’s raining outside.
Oscar Latorre Ardon will be attending Mercer University in the fall with plans to earn a master’s degree in cybersecurity. Oscar performed at Carnegie Hall with his chorus, graduated from the ALANHS liberal arts program at Newton High School, and finished in the top 10% of his class. Oscar hopes to one day work remotely in his field, allowing him to travel and live in Europe while continuing to support his family.
From his teachers:
After teaching Oscar these last four years, he has become a magnificent leader and stellar student. He has dedicated countless hours to his community and helped students discover their passion for music. He consistently brings enthusiasm not just to his classes but to life itself. Oscar has a real gift for authentically connecting with people and fully committing to everything he pursues. – Alan Butrum, Latin Teacher, Newton HS
Having had the pleasure of knowing Oscar for all 4 years of high school, I can honestly say there is no other student I would rather be seated next to on a trans-Atlantic flight… and I have! So easy and fun to talk to, reliable, and eager to help whenever I need an extra hand – I have really enjoyed the time spent with Oscar and look forward to seeing where he goes from here! With his curious mind, determined spirit, and adventurous heart, there is nothing he can’t accomplish! – Misty Morgan, Media Specialist, Newton High School
From Oscar:
My favorite thing about the time I’ve spent in Newton County is getting to meet so many incredible people and building meaningful relationships that I hope will stay with me forever.
Something people might not know about me is that I love to garden and enjoy making flower-related crafts out of all kinds of materials — paper, ribbon, wire, metal, and more.
Fernando Portillo will be attending Western Carolina University in the fall with plans to double major in Musical Theatre and Business Management. Fernando served as Vice President of Eastside High School’s Drama Club, Low Brass Section Leader in The Pride of Eastside Marching Band, and performed in the Georgia High School Musical Theatre Awards Shuler Ensemble. Fernando hopes to work professionally in musical theatre and film while also starting his own business to teach younger students about the arts and inspire Hispanic kids to pursue their passions.
From his teachers:
Fernando Portillo is the kind of artist educators hope to encounter once in a career and the kind of student who leaves a lasting legacy long after they graduate. From his very first monologue in a Fundamentals Theatre class at Eastside High School, it was clear that Fernando possessed something rare: an innate ability to tell the truth on stage. That natural talent has only deepened over the years, evolving into a compelling blend of emotional honesty, versatility, and refined skill. What makes Fernando especially deserving of this scholarship, however, extends far beyond his performance ability. He is a student of integrity, humility, and quiet leadership. He seeks out feedback not just to receive it, but to grow from it. He leads by example, whether that’s staying after to help clean up without being asked or supporting his peers with kindness and encouragement. His dedication to both his craft and his community reflects a maturity well beyond his years.
Fernando embodies the very spirit of this scholarship: talent paired with character, passion grounded in purpose. There is no doubt that he will continue to make meaningful contributions to the arts, and we are incredibly proud to celebrate his achievements and support his journey forward. – Kennedy Lynn, Theater Teacher, Eastside HS
A talented writer, a remarkable actor, and a fantastic friend: these are just a few ways to describe Fernando Portillo. He is a joy to all who meet him and always finds a way to remain positive despite any obstacles he faces. With his skill and determination, I know he will be successful in whatever future he pursues. – Ashlyn Lazenby, Language Arts Teacher, Eastside HS
From Fernando:
My favorite thing about Newton County is the community around me. I’ve created so many friendships with people of all ages, and it’s beautiful to have a community this sweet. It makes leaving Georgia for college difficult, but returning for break is an amazing reward I can look forward to.
Something people might not know about me is that I’m not 100% Mexican! My mother is from Mexico, but my father is from Guatemala, so I’m technically half Mexican and Guatemalan — and there’s even a chance I might be part Italian as well (I’d have to take an ancestry test to prove that, though).
Miangel Rosiles-Flores will be attending Valdosta State University in the fall with plans to work for the federal government’s Department of Health and Human Services as a social worker, advocating for children and families in difficult situations. Miangel won Student of the Year in Nutrition/Culinary, earned All-Region Second Team honors in soccer, and will graduate with honors from a class of nearly 500. She was also actively involved in band, FCCLA, and National Honor Society throughout her high school career.
From her teachers:
Miangel’s leadership within the band extends well beyond rehearsals and performances. Miangel is patient, encouraging, and deeply invested in the growth of her peers. She regularly takes the initiative to help other students master difficult material, including organizing extra sectionals on off-days so everyone feels supported. She also recognizes that students learn in different ways and adapts her approach accordingly—an impressive reflection of her maturity, empathy, and leadership. – Brian Coates, Director of Bands, Alcovy HS
Miangel is a model student in everything she does. She is very active in extra-curricular activities, community service events, and always puts forth 100% plus commitment to everything she does.
I have had the pleasure of knowing/teaching here the last four years. She has been a very active member in FCCLA since 9th grade. She won Alcovy HS’s CTAE Student of the Year this year and also for Newton County.
I am so grateful to have been a part of her journey. Miangel will soar to the highest level of anything she chooses. I can’t wait to see where the next chapter of her life leads her. – Cynthia Cannon, FCCLA Advisor
From Miangel:
My favorite thing about my time in Newton County has been the strong sense of community and support. I’ve always felt surrounded by people who care, whether in school, sports, or extracurricular activities, and that support has helped me grow, stay motivated, and push through challenges.
Something people might not know about me is that behind all my accomplishments, I’ve quietly been working through anxiety for years. Balancing band, soccer, FCCLA, National Honor Society, and a job all at once was incredibly demanding, and this past year was especially hard. People often see me as hardworking and always busy, but they don’t always see the personal struggles it takes to keep everything going — and I’m proud to have pushed through.