Dr. Shinay Bowman, Chief Academic Officer; Dr. Mario Jacquez, Director of Support Services; Diane Kotlewski, CEO of Chaffey Federal Credit Union; Pete Voth, Ford of Upland General Manager; student Drew A.; Dr. Martin Gomez, Principal of Upland High School; Brady Schmidt, Co-owner of Ford of Upland; and a Ford of Upland family representative gather for a photo during the presentation.

Upland, CA — On June 4, Ford of Upland joined Upland Unified School District, Upland High School, Chaffey Federal Credit Union and the California Association of Latino Superintendents and Administrators (CALSA) to launch a new annual program recognizing extraordinary graduating seniors by providing them with a vehicle and additional support as they begin the next chapter of their lives.

The inaugural recipient was 17-year-old Upland High School graduate Andrew A., who was gifted a new Ford Bronco Sport during a ceremony held at the Upland Unified School District office shortly before his high school graduation.

After speeches from educators, community leaders and supporters, Andrew drove the vehicle off the lot before leaving to attend his graduation ceremony.

He is scheduled to attend California State University, San Bernardino, in the fall.

Representatives from Ford of Upland said that the new initiative is intended to become an annual tradition that will recognize students who have overcome significant obstacles while demonstrating perseverance, character and a commitment to their education.

During the event, representatives from Ford of Upland described Andrew as an inspiring young man whose determination had left a lasting impression on those who know him.

In addition to the vehicle, organizers announced several support measures designed to help Andrew transition into college, including paying for his first year of automobile insurance and committing to providing a $300 monthly gas card for a year.

As part of that arrangement, Andrew will meet monthly with Ford of Upland General Manager Pete Voth to discuss his goals and connect with resources that can help him succeed.

Moved by the community’s support and Andrew’s story, organizers also announced that the vehicle giveaway will become a permanent annual program.

The award will be known as the “Drew Achievement Award,” named in Andrew’s honor.

Future recipients will be selected by the school to receive similar support as they pursue higher education or career goals.

Andrew’s case manager, Remy, who has worked with him for the past three years at Upland High School, praised his character, persistence and positive outlook.

“I’ve been impressed with Andrew since day one,” she said. “His persistence, optimism and his outlook on life is brighter than most of all of ours.”

She described him as a student who consistently followed through on commitments, welcomed others into his community and served as a positive example for fellow students.

Upland High School student Andrew A. stands beside the vehicle he received during a special presentation made possible through community partners Ford of Upland and Chaffey Federal Credit Union.

“What truly sets him apart, however, is the genuine kindness he shows,” she said. “People are naturally drawn to Andrew because he is authentic, caring and sincere.”

Additional support came from community organizations participating in the event.

Representatives from CALSA’s Inland Empire chapter presented Andrew with a $500 scholarship to assist with college related expenses.

The organization said the award recognized his hard work, commitment and contributions to his school and community.

Chaffey Federal Credit Union also contributed $1,000. Chief Executive Officer Diane K. Kotlewski spoke about the credit union’s mission of “creating light in people’s lives” and said Andrew’s story resonated with the organization.

“We are very happy to support you in that and just wish you all the best,” she said. “And we can’t wait to hear of the successes ahead of you.”

When invited to address the crowd, Andrew thanked the many people who had supported him throughout his journey.

“I just want to say thank you so much for everybody coming together and just showing me so much support,” he said. “I’m just glad that I’ve been given the opportunity to be here and to be given so much love and so much support.”

The event concluded with photographs around the new Bronco Sport before Andrew departed for graduation, marking the beginning of what organizers hope will become a long-running community tradition celebrating resilience, achievement and opportunity for local students.