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Each year Darden Architects gets the opportunity to recognize one or more outstanding young people from the Central Valley who are working toward a career in Architecture. Join us in celebrating this year’s Scholarship winners! This year two recipients were chosen: Cynthia Renteria from Merced, and Luis Wiley from Fresno.

The Darden Architects Student Scholarship Program aims to recognize, support and encourage students interested in Architecture from the California Central San Joaquin Valley in their professional development. Annually, Darden Architects, Inc. accepts and reviews student applications with the intent of giving a scholarship in the amount of $1,000 to a qualified candidate. The scholarship is intended for a University student currently enrolled and pursuing a degree, or prospective student in Architecture at California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo.

Darden Architects, Inc. has seen a reduced number of students from the Central San Joaquin Valley completing degrees in Architecture. The Darden Architects Student Scholarship Program is intended to address this shortcoming and encourage more students to pursue and complete degrees in Architecture. It is hoped that these graduates will return to the Valley and strengthen the Architectural profession.

Ms. Cynthia Renteria is a graduate of Merced High School and will be a Freshman at Cal Poly next Fall. “Cynthia is an active student on campus and is a great role model for all to follow. She demonstrates great leadership qualities and has a strong work ethic.” Said John Kane, teacher at Merced High School. Cynthia’s dedication and talent will serve her well at Cal Poly, we wish her all the best!

Our second recipient this year, Mr. Luis Wiley, is graduate of Fresno High School and is about to enter his second year at Cal Poly. “My favorite quality of Luis’s was and still is his calm and quiet resilience. Many people would have given up or at least complained about the stresses life has dealt him. But not Luis, He pushes on and understands that time and hard work will overcome the obstacles. Luis continues to impress me with his dedication, respect, and genuine enthusiasm to learn.” Said teacher Jason Isaak at Fresno High. Luis’s drive and leadership stood out, and we’re happy to recognize him with this scholarship.

Darden Architects is proud to be able to give back to the profession, and contribute to the development our the central valley architectural community in this way. Special thanks to Haley Ward in our office for leading the charge on this important program! Go Mustangs.