L.A. County Awards 2025 Disabilities Scholarships to 14 Remarkable Individuals

The 2025 Los Angeles County Commission on Disabilities Scholarship Awards (Photo – Office of Kathryn Barger)

In a ceremony during Tuesday’s Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors meeting, Chair Kathryn Barger recognized 14 outstanding individuals as recipients of the 2025 Los Angeles County Commission on Disabilities Scholarship Awards.

By News Desk

“These honorees exemplify resilience, determination, and talent,” said Supervisor Barger. “This is one of the most meaningful recognition we host each year in our County. Our scholarship program reflects our collective commitment to ensuring individuals with disabilities have the support they need to thrive academically and professionally.”

Since its launch in 2003, the scholarship program has helped break down barriers to higher education and career opportunities for students and veterans with disabilities. This year’s Bernard Siegel and Bill Tainter Scholarship, named in honor of two influential disability advocates, was awarded to 11 recipients: Halmar Chavez, Michael Diaz, Isaac Esquibel, Luna Sarai Gonzalez, José Lopez, Paola Melena, Charles Newman, Alexander Piedras, Luiz Ramirez, Ignacio Rivera, and Cole Terry.

Three additional honorees received specialty scholarships:

• Ignacio Montoya received the Ernest T. Hamilton Jr. Memorial Scholarship, which supports veterans pursuing higher education.
• Derrick Ricafrente earned the Ruben A. Rios Creative Arts and Design Memorial Scholarship for his work in the arts.
• Gary Gregory III was presented with the prestigious President’s Award.

Supervisor Barger expressed her deep appreciation to the Los Angeles County Commission on Disabilities for its continued advocacy, as well as to the Department of Aging and Disabilities for their partnership in promoting accessibility and inclusion.

“Although 35 years have passed since the Americans with Disabilities Act was enacted, our work continues,” Barger said. “Today’s honorees remind us of what’s possible when we commit to building a more inclusive and equitable society.”