Sammy Lopez, Jr. Awarded a Comprehensive Scholarship from the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation

The Jack Kent Cooke Foundation has selected Sammy Lopez Jr. of Southeast New Mexico College as one of the 60 high-achieving community college students to receive the prestigious Cooke Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship. The award will enable these Scholars to complete their bachelor’s degrees at four-year institutions with a significantly reduced financial burden.

During his time at Southeast New Mexico College, Sammy has distinguished himself as an exceptional student leader and scholar. In addition to being named a Jack Kent Cooke Transfer Scholar, he has earned recognition as a member of the New Mexico All-State Academic Team, the Coca-Cola Academic Team, and as a Coca Cola Leader of Promise Scholar. Sammy has also served as an active leader within Phi Theta Kappa as a chapter and regional officer, where he has demonstrated a strong commitment to academic excellence, leadership, and service both on campus and within the community. Sammy plans to attend Drake University in the fall to major in neuroscience.

“This is a stunning achievement and a credit to all of Sammy’s academic efforts and commitment to excellence” said Dr. Kevin Beardmore, President of Southeast New Mexico College. “We are so very proud of him and look forward to him sharing our Mountain Lion spirit with others as he pursues his dreams.”

The Cooke Foundation is committed to expanding access to high-quality, debt-free pathways for high-achieving students with financial need. While nearly 80% of community college students aspire to earn a bachelor’s degree, only 16% reach that goal within six years. The Cooke Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship aims to help more students persist and complete their degrees by reducing financial barriers and providing the academic and advising support needed to navigate the transfer process.

“These Scholars reflect the depth of talent and determination found in community colleges across the country,” said Giuseppe “Seppy” Basili, Chief Executive Officer of the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation. “They’ve demonstrated what they’re capable of, and we’re proud to help ensure that financial barriers don’t prevent them from continuing their education and realizing their full potential.”

Beyond financial support, Scholars receive personalized advising to guide their academic and professional journeys. They also gain access to a nationwide network of more than 3,900 Cooke Scholars and Alumni, along with opportunities for internships, study abroad, and graduate school support, ensuring they have the tools needed to thrive beyond community college.

This year’s selection process drew more than 1,300 applications from community colleges across the country. The 60 new Scholars were selected from a semifinalist pool of 485 students. Applicants were evaluated based on academic achievement, perseverance, and leadership.

A complete list of the 2026 Cooke Transfer Scholar finalists and their respective community colleges can be found on the website. To learn more about the Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship, visit the website.