April 4, 2023 Glendale, California

“Choosing two winners this year was very hard to do. So many of the applicants were outstanding.” Dick Bennett, YWCA Glendale and Pasadena Board Member.

YWCA Glendale and Pasadena is proud to announce it has chosen two $1,000 scholarship winners, Anna Heur of La Cañada High School and Mary Tovbekhakyan of Anderson W. Clark Magnet High School.

Scholarships will be presented at YWCA Glendale and Pasadena’s 26th Annual Heart & Excellence Persimmon Donor Circle Luncheon on May 17, 2023 at the La Canada Flintridge Country Club.

Anna Heur and Mary Tovbekhakyan have engaged in community volunteer service that has had a real and significant impact on others.

Anna is an aspiring doctor and founded a program called Step to Specs, which in partnership with the Keck School of Medicine has provided over 1,000 free eyeglasses to uninsured patients at Los Angeles County Hospital.

Mary is a student leader who works to enhance school culture and promote inclusivity on campus. She founded US Against Bullying Club and spearheaded a toy drive that collected over 500 toys that were donated to Children’s Hospital Los Angeles.

To purchase tickets or become a sponsor of this year’s Heart & Excellence Luncheon, go to https://heartandexcellence.swell.gives/. RSVPs must be received by April 25.

The Cami’s Courage Scholarship was created in honor of Cami Burton, the daughter of former YWCA board member Carol Ann Burton. Cami Burton was an inspiration to our community. She dedicated countless hours in service to others, and tragically lost her life in a car accident while serving as an AmeriCorps volunteer in Malawi.

YWCA Glendale and Pasadena’s mission is to eliminate racism, empower women, and promote peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all. Event proceeds will benefit domestic violence programs, girls ’empowerment programs, and work advancing racial and gender equity.

Contact: Jody Short, Development Director, jodyshort@ywcagp.org, (818) 242-4155, x202