On June 23, Rochester Rotary celebrated the high school graduations of two scholars, Ajhani Davis and Isani Griffin, by organizing a drive-through celebration (in the rain!), complete with balloons, signs (Thank you, Julie!), gifts and virtual hugs. Both graduates, who have been in Rochester Rotary’s Roberto Clemente School No. 8 Scholarship Committee program since fifth grade, were surprised and delighted with this show of love and support. Organized by Rotarians Kelly Mandarano and Rosa LaDelfa, Isani and Ajhani’s mentors respectively, the drive-by salute included other mentors, spouses, and one of the other scholarship program students who will be graduating in two years.

Through its program, Rochester Rotary provides scholarship opportunities to promising young people at School No. 8, and Rochester Rotarian mentors support scholarship recipients throughout their education. Students must maintain at least a B average to stay in the program. They receive 75 percent of a SUNY tuition following high-school graduation.

Roberto Clemente School No. 8 has been Rochester Rotary’s adopted school since 1994.

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