Big Morning for 27 Seniors: Simi Sunrise Rotary Club Awards $21,250 in Scholarships
Sylvie Belmond 
The Rotary Club’s ongoing tradition of investing in youth continues in a big way.
(CLAIR | Simi Valley, CA) — It was a morning full of joy and anticipation as the Rotary Club of Simi Sunrise awarded $21,250 in scholarships to 27 graduating seniors from Simi Valley’s high schools. Selected for their mix of academic achievement, financial need, community involvement and school service, the students were invited to a recent Rotary meeting where they shared their goals and dreams for the future with club members and their families.
Each year, the Rotary Club of Simi Sunrise invests in local youth through scholarships like these, continuing a tradition that dates back to the club’s founding in 1985. Funds are raised through community-focused events including the club’s signature Happy Face Music Festival and supported by generous donations from members and sponsors. It’s a cycle of giving that fuels futures and reinforces the Rotary motto of “Service Above Self.”
Among this year’s awards were three special scholarships honoring individuals who made a lasting impact on the club and the Simi Valley community. Miriam Ahmadian received the Savi Bhim One World One Rotary Scholarship for her global perspective and compassion. Tanvi Ijju was awarded the Rob Hitchcock Memorial Scholarship, a tribute to heartfelt service. Ryan Henderson earned the Blommendahl Memorial Scholarship recognizing a spirit of giving and leadership.
The 2025 recipients represent all corners of the city. From Apollo High School: Kasey Coronel, Julisa Gomez, Antonio Morales and Michelle Pech. Royal High School students included Miriam Ahmadian, Chloe Drudy, Lola Forbes-Black, Julianna Galbraith, Ryan Henderson, Rashi Khandare, Mikayla Lev, Kenna Magoffin, Kathryn Milano, Karen Truong and Maiya Vallejo. Santa Susana High School was represented by Kirsten Adler, Pranav Bijith, Vaidehi Sharma, Nicholas Thor and Jonas Tieu. From Simi Valley High School: Sahasra Anne, Aaron Dinh, Tanvi Ijju, Paige Lewis, Joshua Nghiem, Klayssa Ro and Ashitha Singh.
In addition to scholarships, the club supports a wide range of local and international projects from youth leadership programs to clean water initiatives. Members meet Thursday mornings at the Best Western Posada Royale for breakfast, fellowship and engaging speakers. To learn more about how the club serves Simi Valley and beyond, visit rotaryclubofsimisunrise.org.
As these 27 students prepare to take their next steps, they do so with encouragement, support and the reminder that they are part of a larger community committed to helping them succeed.
