The seniors of the Refugio High School Class of 2010 were awarded just under half a million dollars in scholarships.

RHS counselor Melissa Gonzales told a packed auditorium during graduation exercises that approximately $41,000 of the half-million was given from the local community.

“Despite tough economic times, this community continues its commitment to excellence,” Gonzales said. “We are forced to simplify our lives and get back to the basics, the message to you, Class of 2010 rings loud and clear–higher education is a necessity. It is not a luxury, but a priority.

“Graduates, this money symbolizes gratitude for the past recognition that you have brought to Refugio and hope for your future as you go out into the world as ambassadors of all that our community holds dear.”

Liz Hernandez was presented with the Refugio Womans Club scholarship. Presenters were Deb Weber, Debra Moore and Christie Mascorro.

Jared Sternadel was honored with $1,000 from the Von Dohlen Ford FFA Scholarship.

Kyle Hendley earned $1,000 from the Tommy Aycock Scholarship from the Southern Texas PGA Foundation.

Brittney Gumm, received $15,000 from the Area Go Texan Scholarship.

Myranda Trentman, received $34,000 from the Legacy Scholarship from Houston Baptist University.

Fletcher Wright will attend Texas Lutheran University in Seguin and has been honored by TLU with the Janota Scholarship of $4,000 and the Presidential Scholarship of $44,000.

Julie Wallace will attend New York University and has received $62,000 in scholarships from NYU.

Dylan Klare will attend Rice University in the fall. He received a full, four-year scholarship to play football for the Rice Owls. This scholarship is valued at $228, 000.

The University Interscholastic League “UIL Scholar Award” is presented to seniors who graduate in the top 10 percent of their class and have participated in UIL academic, music, or athletic contests.

The purpose of this award is to honor those students whose academic and extracurricular achievements have been exemplary, and whose self-discipline in preparation and integrity in competition are a model to others and a valuable asset to future citizenship. This award program is one of the outstanding awards programs in the nation.

Dylan Klare, Brittney Gumm, Richard Solis Jr., Fletcher Wright, Julie Wallace, and Joseph Sommer received the UIL Scholar Award.

“As our country faces uncertain times at home and abroad, it is increasingly critical that willing and able young people step forward to serve our great nation,” Gonzales said. “I would like to recognize those members of the Class of 2010 who have committed to proudly serve in the United Sates Armed Forces.”

Paul Boyer, Vincent Cantu, Faustino Gonzales, Mark McClain, and Brock Paris have committed to serve.