Announcing the 2026 Andrea R. Lacy "Grit" Award Scholarship Recipient: Katie Calderon

Katie Calderon San Rafael High School - Attending Dominican University

As the founder of Luv's Brownies and the creator of the Andrea R. Lacy "Grit" Award Scholarship, it brings me tremendous joy to announce Katie Calderon as our 2026 scholarship recipient. This year is especially meaningful because we are celebrating the fifth anniversary of the scholarship, which was created to recognize graduating high school seniors who demonstrate perseverance, resilience, and determination in overcoming obstacles while pursuing their education.

On Saturday, July 11, family, friends, and supporters will join us at the Luv's Brownies dessert truck to celebrate Katie and recognize all that she has accomplished.

Grit has always been deeply personal to me. As someone who was diagnosed with dyslexia later in life, I know firsthand what it feels like to struggle, doubt yourself, and wonder if you'll ever measure up. My journey taught me that success isn't defined by how easily things come to you—it's defined by your willingness to keep going, learn from setbacks, ask for help when you need it, and never give up. That's why I created this scholarship. I want to recognize students who embody the resilience and determination that can change the course of a life.

When I read Katie's application, I immediately recognized those qualities.

In her personal essay, Katie shared how academic challenges became an opportunity for growth. She wrote that after underperforming in math during middle school, asking for help wasn't easy, but tutoring changed her perspective. She realized she had a strong support system she could rely on, and that experience became a turning point in her educational journey.

Katie also shared the incredible sacrifices her family made to support her education. Her father traded his work as a gardener in exchange for tutoring services, while her mother, despite facing ongoing health challenges, drove her to tutoring every weekend and stayed up late helping with homework. Reading her story reminded me that behind many successful students is a family making extraordinary sacrifices. Katie learned that struggling doesn't mean failing—it means growing.

As she reflected on those experiences, Katie wrote that watching her parents persevere taught her not to take her education for granted, but to approach every opportunity with gratitude and purpose.

Her commitment extends well beyond the classroom. In his recommendation letter, San Rafael High School teacher Daniel Allen described Katie as "an extraordinary individual" whose work ethic, compassion, and dedication consistently stood out. She excelled in Economics and U.S. Government while maintaining a positive attitude and genuine enthusiasm for learning.

Katie also demonstrated leadership through four years on the San Rafael High School soccer team and by serving for the past two years on the school's Link Crew, mentoring incoming freshmen as they transitioned into high school. Her passion for healthcare led her to participate in the College of Marin's summer healthcare program and complete an internship with a local dentist. Mr. Allen described her hard work, dedication, and quiet leadership as qualities that make her truly exceptional.

As we celebrate five years of the Andrea R. Lacy "Grit" Award Scholarship, Katie joins an inspiring group of young people whose determination reminds me why this scholarship exists. Their stories reinforce my belief that grit often matters more than circumstance, and that perseverance can open doors that once seemed impossible.

Katie, congratulations on this well-deserved honor. I am incredibly proud of everything you have accomplished and grateful that you shared your story with us. I have no doubt that your resilience, compassion, and work ethic will continue to guide you as you begin this exciting new chapter. I look forward to seeing all that you achieve in the years ahead, and I hope you'll always remember that grit isn't just about overcoming challenges—it's about believing in yourself even when the path isn't easy.

Congratulations again, Katie. Your future is bright, and I can't wait to see where your journey takes you.

Looking Ahead

As we celebrate Katie's achievement, I'm reminded why I created the Andrea R. Lacy "Grit" Award Scholarship five years ago—to recognize students whose perseverance, resilience, and determination inspire others.

I want to sincerely thank every supporter, donor, volunteer, and community partner who has helped make this scholarship possible. Your generosity is more than a financial investment; it's a vote of confidence in students like Katie and in the power of education, opportunity, and grit. Together, we're helping young people pursue their dreams and build brighter futures.

Katie, congratulations once again on this well-deserved honor. Your story is a powerful reminder that challenges do not define us—our perseverance does. I am incredibly proud of you and excited to watch you take the next steps in your educational journey. I have no doubt that your determination, compassion, and work ethic will continue to open doors and inspire those around you.

The future is bright, and I can't wait to see all that you'll accomplish.

With heartfelt gratitude,
Andrea R. Lacy
Founder, Grit Scholarship