ADELANTO, Calif. (VVNG.com) — After walking the stage at graduation this week, an Adelanto High School grad will be heading to Stanford University with two of the nation’s most prestigious scholarships. 
Miguel Cortez, a top-ranking senior at Adelanto, has been awarded both the Bill Gates Scholarship and the QuestBridge National College Match Scholarship — a rare feat. AHS Counselor Amy Stone said the last AHS student to earn both scholarships was Rayna Franklin, who made headlines two years ago when she was accepted to Brown University.
“We are extremely proud of Miguel,” Stone said. “These scholarships are well-deserved and a testament to his dedication and perseverance. He is a role model for all of us.”
Cortez has a strong interest in math and science — he’s currently taking a Victor Valley College Calculus 3 class as part of the Victor Valley Union High School District’s dual enrollment program. He is considering a career in aerospace engineering, and he said Stanford was his top choice.
“The location is great,” Cortez said. “It’s in Silicon Valley, so there are a lot of opportunities, and also there is a NASA center there, and I want to look at possibly getting an internship with NASA.” 
The QuestBridge National College Match connects high-achieving, specific-income students with top universities. After an extensive selection process that reviewed thousands of applicants, Cortez was matched with Stanford, one of QuestBridge’s most selective partner schools. The Bill Gates Scholarship, awarded to only 300 students across the country each year, recognizes exceptional minority students who demonstrate outstanding academic achievements, leadership abilities, and a strong commitment to community service.
Cortez is ranked at the top of his graduating class and currently serves as president of the MEChA Club, where he promotes cultural identity, leadership, and community involvement. 
“Miguel has been an excellent president of MEChA,” said his adviser, Jennifer Parra. “He’s not only dedicated to the group’s success but also inspires others to get involved and make a difference in the community.”
Beatrice James, his calculus teacher, said he is not only a standout student but an “excellent math tutor” with a genuine interest in helping others. 
“Miguel is an incredible young man who truly represents the best of our school and community,” said Dr. Ebony Purcell, Principal of Adelanto High School. “His achievements are a reflection of his hard work, resilience, and his desire to make a positive impact on the world.”
📢 Stay connected with the High Desert’s largest news community!
🔗 For more local news, visit VVNG.com.
At VVNG, we’re dedicated to keeping the Victor Valley informed with essential, community-driven journalism.
Our newsroom works tirelessly to bring you the latest stories that matter—news that fosters awareness, engagement, and connection in the High Desert.
If you value our reporting and want to see it continue, consider becoming a monthly supporter. Your contribution helps keep independent, local news accessible to everyone—because an informed community is a stronger community.
DONATE NOW

source