Millan chosen for Hispanic Scholorship

DCC freshman Anthony Millan has been selected as a New York State Annual Hispanic Heritage Month Scholarship Award recipient. Millan , whose family is of Puerto Rican descent, is the first member of his family to attend college. A Poughkeepsie resident and graduate of Roy C. Ketcham High School, he was one of 15 students from upstate counties to receive this scholarship for their academic excellence, leadership role, and community service. The awards were announced by Governor George E. Pataki and the New York State Hispanic Heritage Month Upstate Committee.

“Hispanic Heritage Month has become an annual tradition highlighting Hispanic presence, culture and positive contribution to our State and Nation, ” Governor Pataki said. “What better way to mark this celebration than honoring Hispanic students who are making a difference in their communities by embracing academic achievements and potential. I congratulate these young role models whom are an inspiration for us all.” This is the 10th year the New York State Hispanic Heritage Month Upstate Committee has presented the scholarships.

The HHMC has celebrated Hispanic Heritage Month since 1997, granting over $75,000 to 99 talented youth to encourage high school students to pursue higher education, become productive members of society, and give back to the community. Private contributions and the participation of various state agencies with in-kind donations, under the leadership of Governor George E. Pataki, have made recognition of these students possible.

Millan started high school in Hyde Park, but switched to the Wappingers Central School District when his family moved before his junior year. While at Roy C. Ketcham, he participated in a number of community service projects, including volunteer work at a private day care center.

While Millan had originally considered attending a four-year, private institution, he ultimately chose DCC because it represented a tremendous cost savings for his family. He is exploring possible career and educational paths in the arts and also in healthcare. His first semester classes take place exclusively at DCC South, the College’s satellite site on Marshall Road, off Route 9, in Wappingers Falls . “It’s really convenient, ” said Millan. “It’s only 10 minutes from my house.”

Other Hudson Valley residents among the New York State Annual Hispanic Heritage Month Scholarship Award recipients are Juan Canales from Orange County, a graduate of Goshen High School who is attending Union College; Raquel Rodriguez from Orange County, a graduate of Cornwall Central High School who is attending Yale University; and Claudia Quintanilla from Ulster County, a graduate of Kingston High School who is attending Ulster County Community College.
Pictured above is Anthony Millan, a NYS Annual Hispanic Heritage Month Scholarship Award recipient..