El Monte Union scholarships were awarded to 31 students on May 15 during the 2025 EKG Scholarship Foundation and CBM Towing Inc. Banquet, recognizing academic achievement and perseverance across the district.
Held in honor of Arroyo High School alumnus Edward-Kenneth F. Guerrero, the event celebrated both student recipients and the donors who make the awards possible. The banquet featured dinner, a photo booth, and personal tributes that underscored the importance of investing in local youth.
El Monte Union Scholarships Recognize Excellence
The scholarship banquet brought together students, families, educators, and local leaders at a time when support for education remains essential. Organizers noted that the 31 awards reflect the diverse aspirations of El Monte Union students—from college-bound seniors pursuing science and education to those entering technical fields or continuing their studies at local institutions.
Many of the awardees have overcome challenges on their way to graduation. This year’s recipients were selected based on academic performance, extracurricular involvement, personal essays, and letters of recommendation.
Legacy Behind El Monte Union Scholarships Honored
The banquet pays tribute to Guerrero, a graduate of Arroyo High School who passed away in 2009. Family and friends established the EKG Scholarship Foundation to honor his memory and support students from his hometown. Since its inception, the foundation has awarded dozens of scholarships in partnership with CBM Towing Inc. and other community contributors.
Community Partnerships Drive Support
The involvement of local businesses like CBM Towing Inc. reflects a growing network of partnerships that strengthen the educational landscape across the El Monte Union High School District. Donors and sponsors were acknowledged during the banquet, many of whom return year after year to support the initiative.
By working closely with families, schools, and business leaders, the foundation has created a sustainable model for student recognition. Guests at the event emphasized the importance of local engagement in ensuring continued opportunities for youth.
Building Toward the Future
The 2025 banquet was more than a celebration—it was a commitment to the next generation of leaders. With college costs on the rise, scholarships like these provide vital financial relief for students navigating their next steps.
Each awardee left the event not just with a scholarship, but with renewed encouragement from a community that believes in their potential. As the students prepare for their future, the El Monte Union community remains invested in their journey.
For residents, the banquet serves as a reminder of what can be accomplished when families, schools, and local businesses work together to support young people.