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We are proud to announce our inaugural 2025 scholarship recipients, and congratulate:

  • Haftom Amha, Harry S. Truman College
  • Valeria Cancino: Malcolm X College
  • Jamarius Ducker, Kennedy-King College

Members of the Hektoen Institute Board and guests celebrated the inaugural Community College Essay Contest Winners at a luncheon held Saturday, November 22, 2025, at the Sofitel Hotel Chicago.  Board Members and their guests, along with the prize winners and their guests, enjoyed the convivial atmosphere and a delicious lunch buffet.

Prize winner Jamarius Ducker accepts award check from Mariela Romo (Hektoen Institute Chief Administrator), and Dr. Sally Metzler (Hektoen Institute Trustee, Scholarship Program Founder).
Prize winner Haftom Amha.
Guests enjoying lunch.
Hektoen Board Members (pictured L-R): Kathleen Weber, RN, MS, BSN; Brian O’dea; Dr. George Dunea; Dr. James Franklin; Prof. Mary Ann McDermott, RN; Dr. Sally Metzler; Mark Grach; and Dr. Peter Hart.
Hektoen Board Member Dr. Ashutosh Gupta and Jamarius Ducker.