Friends of Youth Services and Palm Beach County, Inc. has announced this year's Alyssa Sangeeta Jacobson Scholarship recipients. The scholarship provides $1,000 per year, distributed over two semesters to each recipient and is renewable for up to four years, depending on degree or certificate program.

The application process included 55 reviewable applications. Following an online application process, finalists were selected based on application submission, letters of recommendation and written essay. Scholarship eligibility was limited to residents of Palm Beach County.

During a virtual award ceremony held on April 30, recipients received formal recognition of scholarship in front of family and friends. Those who attended the virtual ceremony had the opportunity to celebrate this year's recipients by providing words of encouragement.

Congratulations to the 2020 Alyssa Sangeeta Jacobson Scholarship recipients:

Beatrice Mattison-Santos is a graduating senior at Palm Beach Gardens High School in the pre-med academy. She plans to attend Palm Beach State College majoring in biological science, and aspires to have a career in medical research. Beatrice is a mentor, tutor and has taken leadership roles in community organizations. Belief in herself includes a belief in giving to others.

Katia Mejia-Lagos, a graduate of John I. Leonard High School, is currently enrolled at Palm Beach Atlantic University, pursing a bachelor of science in nursing. Katia is also an active member of Future Leaders United for Change.

Katia has been a reading mentor for second and third graders, tutored middle school students, and painted houses in neighborhoods in need. At the Nicklaus Children's Hospital where Katia volunteers, it was said that she "provided patients with unexpected joy during their hospital stay."

The scholarship is in memory of Alyssa Sangeeta Jacobson. Alyssa was committed to living a self-sufficient life and discovering her passions. Her determination to pursue education, earning undergraduate and graduate degrees, enabled her to live consistent with those commitments. She hoped others could have support to achieve their goals. The Alyssa Sangeeta Jacobson Scholarship is dedicated to those who need a little extra assistance in achieving education goals.