On Tuesday, April 22, 2025, San Diego College of Continuing Education will recognize the accomplishments of 115 students at its annual scholarship and awards ceremony. The banquet style celebration will take place from 4-6 p.m. at the front lawn of the Educational Cultural Complex (4343 Ocean View Blvd. 92113).

A generous $110,000 in scholarships and awards will be given to adult learners who plan to transition to a career or to a credit college. In 2024, the College of Continuing Education celebrated its 110-year anniversary, since 1914, students of diverse backgrounds have enrolled there for free workforce training, English as a Second Language (ESL) classes, and to achieve their high school diploma/equivalency. 

Among the Emerging Leaders scholarship recipients is Colin Geaghan, 30. While already a university graduate, Geaghan pursued a certificate in culinary arts at the College of Continuing Education to pivot career paths from business administration to hospitality. “Achieving this scholarship eases some of the financial pressure of going back to school. Living in San Diego is expensive, so this will offset some of those costs as well pay for the costs associated with getting my certificate like books, and class fees,” he said. “Once I'm done with the culinary programs, I'm hoping to become a private chef who specializes in holistic healing through food.”

“Going to college is already challenging, to go to college as an adult while facing added barriers along the way is a true testament of resilience, I believe all of our students have within them. I look forward to our scholarship and awards ceremony each year, as it is our chance to really celebrate the hard work of our students, and for their families and loved ones to come alongside them as they continue to pursue their goals and dreams,” said College of Continuing Education President Dr. Tina M. King, who funded 10 Emerging Leaders scholarships.

More scholarship and award winners are Chancellor’s Scholarship recipient Daniel Long, Dr. Robert Matthew Memorial Scholarship recipient Veronica Maya, and Price Family Foundation ESL Scholarship recipient Ana Julia Marquetti Narino. Emerging Leaders scholars include Seaira Courtney, Jose Isais, and Tracy Price.

Enrollment for summer begins May 12, to learn more about the College of Continuing Education, please visit, SDCCE.EDU.