The spirit of generosity and belief in education that defines Mary Stuart Rogers’ legacy continues to flourish at Stanislaus State.
On Oct. 10, the University celebrated a new class of Mary Stuart Rogers Scholars during the annual luncheon, which recognizes students who exemplify academic excellence, resilience and a deep commitment to serving others.
Since 1991, the Mary Stuart Rogers Scholarship Program has supported more than 600 Stan State students — future teachers, nurses, scientists, advocates and leaders — through the ongoing generosity of the Mary Stuart Rogers Foundation.
“The Rogers family has truly shaped the soul of Stan State and what we are becoming,” said President Britt Rios-Ellis. “Their belief in our students and investment in their potential has created a legacy that continues to blossom with every single scholar they invest in. When generous partners like the Rogers family invest in Warriors, the return is powerful and measurable.”
Rios-Ellis also commended this year’s honorees for their leadership and purpose.
“To our Rogers Scholars: You are leaders in the making,” she said. “You represent the very best of what public higher education can catalyze: excellence, perseverance and purpose rooted in community. Your success is not just your own. It belongs to your families, your mentors and those who came before you. This moment is a reminder that when we lead with cariño and believe in each other’s potential, the pulse of possibility becomes unstoppable.”
Col. John Rogers, son of Mary Stuart Rogers and president of the Foundation, shared words of encouragement for this year’s honorees and their families.
“We’re here to validate the effort you’ve made,” he said. “Remember your college — when you graduate, you’re an alum, and your scholarship in many ways comes back to you from the University. Support them, stay connected and know that as long as we’re able, we’ll be here to honor you, your families and the scholars who follow.”
Janet Rogers, daughter of John Rogers and a member of the Mary Stuart Rogers Foundation board, also personally congratulated the scholars and expressed the family’s pride in their perseverance and purpose.
“We are so proud to be part of your journey,” she said. “When times are tough, remember that the Rogers family believes in each one of you.”
Each year’s class of scholars reflects the Foundation’s belief in the transformative power of education and community. Their journeys — marked by perseverance and purpose — continue to honor Mary Stuart Rogers’ vision of uplifting others through opportunity.
The 2025 Mary Stuart Rogers Scholars:
— Kira Baxter: An art history major and chemistry minor at Stanislaus State, Baxter is pursuing a career in art conservation, where she hopes to work with museums and archaeologists to preserve and restore cultural artifacts.
— Benjamin Diaz: A business administration major with an emphasis in computer information systems, Diaz hopes to help small businesses, like the one his father recently started after more than 30 years of painting houses.
— Gloria Duran: For psychology major Gloria Duran of Modesto, resilience isn’t just a trait — it’s a way of life.
— Ava Holland: Sonora native Holland has long been inspired by her mother’s compassion as a nurse. Now, the Stanislaus State nursing major is following that same path with purpose and pride.
— Joseph Kamber: A business administration major, with a concentration in accounting, Kamber plans to earn his CPA license and work in public accounting before returning to Stanislaus State as a professor to guide the next generation of accounting students.
— Zaila Kayhan: For Stanislaus State nursing major Kayhan, being a Warrior means perseverance and gratitude — even in the face of tremendous loss.
— Jazmine Ramirez: A liberal studies and ethnic studies double major with a Spanish concentration, Ramirez discovered her calling in teaching and advocacy.
— Farishta Roshan: Mountain House native and psychology major Farishta Roshan found her life’s purpose close to home — through the experience of watching her younger brother grow and thrive despite the possibility of early developmental challenges. That passion has guided her toward a future in child neuropsychology or clinical psychology, where she hopes to help children express themselves and feel truly understood.
— Ashnil Singh: Lathrop High School and Delta College graduate Singh envisions a world where technology is dependable, accessible and easy for everyone to understand. That’s what the computer science major seeks to do as a software/website designer.
— Miguel Yañez: For Yañez, a love of science began early — inspired by his mother, who encouraged him to explore the world with curiosity. He plans to pursue a career in environmental conservation or water infrastructure, where he can protect natural resources and improve systems that sustain communities.
