Jairo Martinez '14 is Gates Millennium Scholar
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For his strong leadership, community service and academic achievement, Jairo Martinez, Fairfield Prep Class of 2014, has been chosen as a Gates Millennium Scholar. The Gates Millennium Scholars Program is the nation’s largest minority scholarship program and is funded by a $1.6 billion grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. From one of the largest and most competitive group of candidates in the program’s history, Mark was one of 1,000 chosen from a nationwide pool of 52,000 applicants. GMS scholarships are awarded to undergraduate students of diversity across the country who demonstrate academic excellence and strong leadership skills. Scholarships assist students in meeting the cost of attendance at the college or university of their choice. GMS scholars who choose to pursue graduate studies in the areas of computer science, education, engineering, library science, mathematics, public health and science are eligible to receive continued funding. The program also provides leadership development opportunities to ensure that scholars graduate prepared to become strong leaders in their professions and in their communities.
Jairo is a true scholar and leader. A summa cum laude student, Jairo is a member of the National Honor Society, an AP Scholar, and a National Hispanic Scholar. While at Prep, he has received the DAR (Daughters of the American Revolution) Good Citizen Award and Brown University Book Award, and is a finalist for the Quest Bridge Program. Jairo is an active participant in the Concert Band, the Student Government, and the Squires. He is manager of the Wrestling Team, co-president of ASPIRA and captain of the Mock Trial Team. He is very active in numerous community service projects and has participated in a Kairos Retreat, an Urban Plunge, and two global immersion trips to Ecuador, the last as group leader. In addition, Jairo is a published writer and editor of the school’s literary magazine. Jairo plans to attend Columbia University and pursue studies in neuroscience and psychology.
Pictured from left: Theology teacher Mr. Corey Dennis; President Rev. John Hanwell, S.J.; Jairo Martinez; Principal Dr. Robert Perrotta; and Dean of Guidance & College Advising John Hanrahan.