2025 Scholarship Awardees

The AFSCME Local 685 Scholarship Committee is announcing this year’s Scholarship winners. The committee organizes scholarships for members of children seeking higher education. We hope that The AFCME Local 685 scholarship will make a tangible contribution in your student’s life and send the message that AFSCME Local 685 cares about expanding access to higher education. The application is submitted in the form of a short biography that states what college or University the young person will be attending and what subject they plan to major in. All children of members of AFSCME Local 685 are eligible to apply.

This year we award Lauren Esqueda the Sue Cline Heart of a Lioness Scholarship; Bianca Robles, The Henry Fiering Scholarship; and Jasmine Morris the Mary Ridgway Scholarship.

Learn about our winners here, in their own words:

Lauren Esqueda

My name is Lauren Esqueda, and I am a Microbiology major in the Honors College at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. I am writing to express my sincere interest in the AFSCME Local 685 scholarship program and to share how my academic and extracurricular experiences have shaped my goals in pursuing a career in veterinary medicine. I currently serve as an undergraduate teaching assistant for BIO 190 and BIO 191, where I assist students in developing a strong foundation in biology and laboratory techniques.

Outside the classroom, I volunteer at Pet Vets Animal Hospital, gaining meaningful hands-on experience working with animals and observing the vital role veterinarians play in community health. I also serve as Vice President of Treasury and Vice President of Humanitarian Affairs for the Pre-Veterinary Association, where I help organize events that connect students with volunteer opportunities and professional mentorship. In addition, I am a research assistant in a lab studying the effects of forever chemicals on fruit flies, contributing to data collection and analysis that deepens my understanding of environmental impacts on biological systems.

Beyond these commitments, I am actively involved in the Life Sciences Student Association, the Pre-Med Latina Association, and the New Hope Ocean Club, which focuses on protecting aquatic organisms and promoting sustainability. As a member of Alpha Delta Pi sorority, I also dedicate time to philanthropic service and campus leadership. Through these roles, I have learned to balance rigorous academics, community service, and research while maintaining my passion for animal welfare and science. Receiving this scholarship would allow me to continue expanding my involvement in animal research and community outreach while pursuing my long-term goal of becoming a veterinarian.

Bianca Robles

My name is Bianca Robles, and I am currently an undergraduate student at California State University, Fullerton. I am pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice with a minor in Biology, and I am also enrolled in the university’s Forensic Pathology Certificate Program. This academic path reflects both my passion for criminal justice and my strong interest in the biological sciences, particularly as they relate to forensic investigation.

Through my studies, I have developed a deep understanding of the legal system, criminological theory, and investigative procedures, while simultaneously building a solid foundation in human biology and pathology. The Forensic Pathology Certificate Program has given me specialized training in the scientific techniques used in death investigations, crime scene analysis, and medico-legal autopsies.

After completing my undergraduate education, I plan to continue on to graduate school in forensic science. My ultimate goal is to build a career in forensic science, where I can combine my analytical skills, scientific knowledge, and passion for justice to contribute to criminal investigations and help bring clarity and closure to complex cases. I am particularly drawn to the role forensic science plays in uncovering the truth and providing critical evidence that supports the integrity of the legal process.

In addition to my academic pursuits, I am currently employed at Kumon, an internationally recognized after-school learning program that focuses on building foundational skills in math and reading. My role involves working closely with students of various ages, helping them develop critical thinking skills, academic discipline, and confidence in their learning abilities.

Working at Kumon has not only strengthened my communication and leadership skills, but it has also deepened my appreciation for the importance of education in community development. Kumon serves as an essential resource for families by providing students with personalized support outside of the traditional classroom environment. By helping students master core subjects at their own pace, the program empowers them to become independent learners and improves their long-term academic success.

Jasmine Morris

My name is Jasmine Morris, I graduated from Animo City of Champions Charter School, and I am now attending California State University Dominguez Hills as a Freshman. I have chosen health sciences as my major, because I have a strong interest in understanding how the human body works. I also have a passion for helping others improve their health and well-being. I’m drawn by a wide variety of career paths in healthcare, which gives me the flexibility to explore different roles in medicine, public health or research. Choosing health science is a step towards a meaningful career, where I can contribute to improving the quality of life for individuals and communities.