Seven graduates from local high schools were honored by Turlock’s Knights of Columbus Father Heslin Council on Saturday at their 48th annual scholarship reception. The local non-profit awarded $7,000 in scholarships amongst the seven individuals.

Turlock High School had three graduates receive scholarships this year. The THS recipients were Gabriella Sanchez, Cole Ingersoll and Joseph Crivelli. Pitman High School’s Sara Drumonde joined the trio along with Denair High School’s Kira Johnson and Jasmine Ramirez and Hilmar High School’s Liliana Johnson.

“It is so wonderful to have some of our scholarship recipients and their families join us and have lunch with the Knights,” said Grand Knight Larry Faria. “We are all so proud of their accomplishments and are excited to see them continue their journeys.”

Ingersoll, Crivelli and Ramirez were unable to attend the event. Each of the four attendees were given an opportunity to speak and share their post-graduate plans.

Denair’s Johnson said that she will be going to Modesto Junior College to pursue a career in art and possible continue her golf career. Hilmar’s Johnson has similar plans as she will look to continue playing soccer at UC Merced while pursuing a career in public health. Pitman’s Drumonde also plans to stay nearby when she heads to California State Monterey Bay to major in agricultural science. Meanwhile, Turlock’s Sanchez will be majoring in microbiology at the University of New Mexico. After receiving her degree, she is planning to join the Navy.

“This is such a great accomplishment, and all of the Knights really love to use this event to say congratulations,” Faria said. “We look forward to it every year.”

Local high school seniors are always encouraged to apply for the Knights of Columbus scholarship before the annual March deadline, with one of the main requirements being that the father or grandfather of the applicant being an active member of the Knights of Columbus, Father Heslin Council #2557.