York Charitable Foundation Announces Inaugural Class of York Foundation Scholars

Celebrating outstanding students breaking barriers to pursue higher education

DENVER--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The York Charitable Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to empowering underserved youth through education, housing, and wrap-around support, today proudly introduced its inaugural class of York Foundation Scholars. These students, selected for their resilience, leadership, and commitment to learning, exemplify the Foundation’s mission to help young people unlock their potential and transform their futures.

The York Foundation Scholars program is made possible in part through the support of York Space Systems and its Founder, contributing founding partners of the Foundation. Together, York and the York Charitable Foundation are working to break down barriers to higher education by providing scholarships, housing, mentorship, and holistic support for students who might otherwise be excluded from opportunity.

“The York Charitable Foundation Scholars represent the best of what’s possible when we invest in talent and determination instead of circumstance,” said Brett Page, Chief Operating Officer of the York Charitable Foundation. “These remarkable students are living proof that grit, intelligence, and leadership are not defined by economic background. With the right support, they can thrive, and we are honored to help them on their journey.”

Meet the York Charitable Foundation Scholars

Quetzalli Chavez – Denver East High School → University of Colorado Boulder

Quetzalli has distinguished herself as a leader, scholar, and community member. With a remarkable 4.624 GPA, she served as Executive Officer on the JROTC Regimental Staff and was actively involved in MEChA and the Native Student Alliance. Balancing academics with work and family responsibilities, she also shared her cultural heritage through danza Azteca, engaging local communities in the traditions and history of her ancestors.

Her dedication to excellence, service, and cultural pride has made her an outstanding role model. This fall, Quetzalli is attending the University of Colorado Boulder, supported by a scholarship from the York Charitable Foundation. Her faith, strong work ethic, and ability to turn challenges into growth opportunities continue to inspire those around her. With her unwavering commitment to education and community, Quetzalli is poised to make a meaningful impact both on campus and beyond.

Nes Masa – Thomas Jefferson High School → University of Northern Colorado

Nes has shown resilience, determination, and a strong sense of individuality in the face of challenges. With an impressive 1310 on the SAT, Nes excelled academically while also participating in clubs such as the Gay-Straight Alliance, SkillsUSA, and Anime Club. Beyond academics, Nes overcame experiences of bullying by embracing authenticity and individuality, choosing to lead with confidence rather than conform. That courage has inspired peers to be more open, kind, and accepting.

This fall, Nes will attend the University of Northern Colorado with support from the York Charitable Foundation. Guided by a passion for science and medicine, Nes aspires to become an Obstetrician and Gynecologist serving diverse individuals. Nes’s story reflects the Foundation’s mission of supporting students who turn challenges into strengths. By embracing individuality and transforming adversity into empowerment, Nes continues to set an example of perseverance, integrity, and vision.

Melissa Hermosillo Nava – Denver East High School → University of Colorado Boulder

Melissa, a graduate of Denver East High School, has shown remarkable resilience and leadership in the face of adversity. Growing up in a busy household, she balanced academics, leadership in robotics, and caring for her siblings while navigating the loss of her sister Kaylee, who had special needs. Instead of letting grief define her, Melissa chose to honor Kaylee’s memory by transforming pain into purpose, fueling her passion for biomedical and mechanical engineering. Her ability to approach setbacks with creativity and strength demonstrates maturity well beyond her years.

This fall, Melissa will attend the University of Colorado Boulder, supported by the York Charitable Foundation. Melissa thrived as a leader in STEM, paving the way for future generations of Latinas to enter spaces that have not always been inclusive. Whether designing robotics projects, mentoring younger students, or engineering solutions to help her family, she embraces challenges as opportunities for growth. Her vision is to design technologies and infrastructure that uplift underserved communities, ensuring that others benefit from the lessons she has drawn from her own experiences. Melissa’s story is one of perseverance, purpose, and inspiration—a powerful reminder that adversity can be the foundation for lasting impact. Melissa proves that adversity does not weaken her—it equips her with the tools to lead, innovate, and inspire.

A Holistic Approach to Student Success

The York Charitable Foundation is providing full scholarships covering tuition, fees, books, and student services. Tutoring, mentoring, and counseling are made readily available to students who seek them, and meetings are conducted to closely monitor and assist each student in their academic journey, fostering an environment where every individual can thrive and reach their full potential.

The Foundation is also committed to supporting students in securing suitable housing near their chosen educational institutions, offering financial assistance to address residency requirements. Recognizing that fulfilling other fundamental needs is paramount to success, the Foundation assesses and addresses additional financial requirements for essentials such as food, clothing, and other necessities. This holistic approach ensures that scholars can focus on their education without the burden of unmet basic needs.

“The York Charitable Foundation was created to change the trajectory of young lives,” said Page. “By investing in students like Quetzalli, Nes, Melissa, and their peers, we are not only helping them succeed, we’re investing in the future of our communities.”

Looking ahead, the York Charitable Foundation is also developing plans to establish its own student residential facilities as part of its long-term roadmap, expanding the scope of support even further in future phases.

For more information about the York Foundation Scholars and the York Charitable Foundation, please visit www.york-foundation.org.

About York Charitable Foundation

The York Charitable Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to empowering underserved and under-recognized youth by providing scholarships, housing, and wrap-around support services. Founded with the belief that determination, grit, intelligence, and leadership are not defined by circumstances of birth, the Foundation provides students with the resources and stability to unlock their potential and become positive contributors to society.