The York Charitable Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to empowering underserved youth through education, housing, and wrap-around support, today proudly introduced its new class of York Foundation Scholars for the 2026-2027 academic year. The students bring a record of leadership, determination, and service to their communities. Their educational goals reflect their personal experiences and a shared commitment to helping others.

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Supported in part by York Space Systems, the program helps students access higher education and the resources they need to succeed, including financial assistance, housing support, and mentorship.

“The Foundation is determined to help young people who have demonstrated the drive and potential to build successful lives,” said Brett Page, Chief Operating Officer of the York Charitable Foundation. “We hope our support helps them pursue their ambitions and find ways to make a meaningful impact in the world. We believe a person’s value, and the impact they can have, are not determined by the financial circumstances of their birth.”

Building on its inaugural class introduced in 2025, the Foundation is extending its commitment to helping students overcome financial barriers to college and providing the stability and guidance needed to complete their education.

Meet the York Charitable Foundation Scholars

Isela Aguilera-Gonzalez — West High School → University of Colorado Boulder

A first-generation college student and the oldest of five siblings, Isela Aguilera-Gonzalez sees her education as an opportunity to create a different future for herself and set an example for her family. At West High School, she balanced academics with cheerleading, wrestling, and soccer, developing discipline and accountability through her participation in all three sports.

As a member of West’s Student Voice and Leadership Board, Isela helped launch and operate a student store to strengthen school engagement. She managed inventory and ordering while helping create an environment where students with disabilities could participate. Her teacher describes her as adaptable, detail-oriented, and an exemplary role model.

Isela is attending the University of Colorado Boulder, where she plans to study political science. She hopes to mentor young people facing circumstances similar to her own, helping them recognize possibilities beyond their immediate financial constraints.

Luis Hernandez — West High School → University of Denver

Luis Hernandez’s path to college reflects a sustained effort to rebuild after a difficult start to high school. Family instability, responsibilities at home, and a school transition affected his early academic performance. With structure from sports and encouragement from teachers, Luis regained confidence and earned straight A’s by his junior year.

Living with his grandparents brought greater stability. He helps his grandmother with daily responsibilities and works alongside his grandfather repairing and diagnosing older cars, developing patience and practical problem-solving skills. Through the University of Denver’s Volunteers in Partnership program, Luis was the only participating student to attend every evening SAT preparation session.

Now attending the University of Denver as the first in his family to attend a university, Luis plans to study psychology. He hopes to work with young people who have experienced trauma and instability, drawing on his own experiences to help others find support and a path forward.

Keyaun Ramsey — Northfield High School → Metropolitan State University of Denver

Born at 26 weeks, Keyaun Ramsey faced medical challenges that included hearing loss, multiple surgeries, and years of therapy. As a neurodivergent student, he also learned to navigate school with support from teachers who recognized his abilities and helped him find ways to succeed.

At Northfield High School, Keyaun excelled in track and served as captain of the football team. He balanced academics and athletics with caring for his younger brother and working to contribute financially to his household. His teachers describe him as humble, focused, kind, and a future leader.

Keyaun is attending Metropolitan State University of Denver and plans to transfer to the University of Northern Colorado in fall 2027, where he plans to join the football team. With the Foundation’s support, he is continuing to pursue his academic and athletic goals while carrying forward the responsibility and perseverance he has developed at school and at home.

Supporting Students Beyond the Scholarship

The Foundation’s assistance extends beyond college costs. Alongside funding for tuition, fees, books, and student services, scholars can access tutoring, counseling, and mentoring. Regular check-ins help identify academic and personal needs, while assistance with housing and everyday essentials helps students maintain stability throughout their education.

“A scholarship opens the door, but sustained support helps students move forward with confidence,” added Page. “We want our scholars to have the freedom to think beyond immediate obstacles, to explore their talents, pursue meaningful careers, and become the mentors and leaders who expand opportunities for the next generation.”

For more information about the York Foundation Scholars and the York Charitable Foundation, please visit www.york-foundation.org.

About York Charitable Foundation

The York Charitable Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to empowering underserved and under-recognized youth by providing scholarships, housing, and wrap-around support services. Founded with the belief that determination, grit, intelligence, and leadership are not defined by circumstances of birth, the Foundation provides students with the resources and stability to unlock their potential and become positive contributors to society.

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