Congratulations to Denver Kids senior, Houlaye, who was awarded the 2024 Donna Hultin Excellence Award by the Rotary Club of Denver, receiving $1,000 for college expenses. This prestigious award, created by former Denver Kids CEO, Donna Hultin, recognizes graduating Denver Kids students who exhibit strong academic performance, community engagement, leadership skills, and a positive attitude.
Throughout her time at KIPP Northeast Denver Leadership Academy, Houlaye, achieved a perfect 4.0 GPA, served as president of the National Honor Society, was on the Student Board of Education, and earned multiple scholarships, academic awards, and Ivy League acceptances. Her Denver Kids Advisor, Ariane, loves how Houlaye uses her education to advocate for those without a voice, calling her passionate about the needs of her community and destined to make the world a better place.
Houlaye is fluent in five languages and believes in the power of language to bridge perspectives and bring people together. Originally from Senegal, she is the first in her family to graduate high school and attend college. Houlaye plans to study business economics and then attend law school. Motivated by her parents' efforts to dismantle restrictive ideologies in Senegal and their experience moving to the United States, she plans to continue advocating for her community. Part of Houlaye's advocacy goals include founding a non-profit foundation to fund education for young children in developing countries, providing mentorship and opportunities to help break the cycle of poverty.
And Houlaye wasn't the only scholarship applicant to impress her readers. The Rotary Club also recognized runner-up Denver Kids students Amayah and Issa for their exceptional dedication to their education.
Denver Kids is proud to have walked alongside these students through their hard work, leadership, and commitment to their education and community. We can't wait to cheer them on as they pursue their dreams!
