Elma Lesnini Burke Memorial Scholarship
Elma Lesnini Burke Memorial Scholarship
Apply Online Here
Elma Lesnini Burke Memorial Scholarship
Elma Lesnini Burke was born a first-generation American to Swiss immigrant parents. She grew up speaking a Swiss-Italian dialect and learned to speak English as a first grader at Greenfield Elementary School. Elma excelled in school and graduated at the top of her class. Elma went on to lead a long and successful life, settling in San Juan Bautista with her husband Albert Burke, where they owned and operated an apple orchard and cold storage. Elma also worked part-time at the many iterations of the bank in San Juan Bautista. Albert died young leaving Elma to raise their 3 daughters. Many women may have been overwhelmed with having to shoulder all these responsibilities by herself; however, not our Mother who dug deep into her Swiss girl grit. She forged ahead successfully, running her business in what at the time was a man's world. Elma also devoted herself to raising her daughters to become successful independent women who share many of her traits. Elma enjoyed a well-lived life and died at the age of 92 in April 2023.
Elma's family has established this scholarship in her memory which is devoted to recognizing other children of immigrants who have displayed grit and determination in their quest to achieve the American dream, much like Elma did.
Award
$2,000
Eligibility Requirements
- Scholarships available to students graduating from Anzar High School
- Preference given to first- or second-generation students
- Min. GPA of 3.0 or above
- Students with a demonstrated passion and perseverance toward attending higher education and/or trade school despite being confronted by personal challenges
- Financial need
A Complete Application includes:
- Complete the online scholarship application
- 2 Letters of Recommendation ( one from school staff member and one from a community member)
- Transcript of grades
- Personal Statement ( 1 1/2- 2 pages, doubled spaced) sharing the following:
- Your goals for the future.
- Personal challenges that have shaped the person you are today.
Applications will be processed through the Community Foundation for San Benito County and presented to the Elma M. Burke Memorial Scholarship Fund committee for final selection. There are no restrictions on the class of eligible students based on race, creed, religion or sex.