Subscribe
For more great content
Subscribe
For more great content
In a heartfelt evening dedicated to academic excellence and community support, the Gustine Unlimited Scholarship Trust Organization (GUSTO) celebrated its annual scholarship awards ceremony on May 8 at Gustine High School’s auditorium. The event marked another milestone for the organization, which has awarded over $750,000 to local students since its founding more than 25 years ago.
This year, GUSTO awarded a total of $44,400 in scholarships to 68 deserving students from the Gustine Unified School District. The scholarships, made possible by private donations, local businesses, and community organizations, serve as vital support for students pursuing higher education—whether at vocational institutions or traditional colleges.
Among the standout recipients of the night were several students who received special scholarships, reflecting both academic achievement and community dedication. Tri Counties Bank contributed $2,500 to GUSTO, enabling the organization to provide significant awards to numerous students. Some of the big winners included:
Many of the scholarships have longstanding traditions, with families and donors sharing the history behind their contributions during the event. Memorial gifts, such as those from Wilbur and Irene Gomes, have helped establish an endowment that ensures the continuation of scholarship funding for future generations.
Since its first awards ceremony in the spring of 1999—where $8,050 was given to 22 students—GUSTO has steadily grown, reflecting the unwavering support from the Gustine community. By the following year, donations had nearly doubled to $15,000, setting the stage for the organization’s continued success in helping students achieve their higher education goals.
As GUSTO moves forward, its mission remains clear: to create a community-wide effort in increasing the interest in higher education among youth and expanding financial assistance for students seeking opportunities beyond high school. With each scholarship awarded, the organization reaffirms its commitment to fostering academic excellence and empowering the next generation of leaders.
The ceremony served not only as an acknowledgment of students’ hard work but also as a reminder of the collective effort that makes these scholarships possible. Through continued support and community engagement, GUSTO ensures that local students have the resources needed to pursue their ambitions and make a meaningful impact on the world.
