SISD student is among 12 scholars in nation chosen based on commitment to education, demonstrated leadership
Socorro High School student Isabella Villalobos and educator Javier Rubio have been named to the Bezos Scholars Program 2025 Scholars cohort. The Bezos Scholars Program inspires and challenges young people and educators from their schools to address issues they are passionate about in their communities.
Villalobos is among twelve student scholars who represent seven states this year. Scholars were chosen from a competitive applicant pool and based on commitment to their education, demonstrated leadership abilities, willingness to embrace challenges, and the desire to create positive change in their communities.
The program is a year-long leadership development program spanning the U.S. and Africa—one that not only delivers specific and measurable learning outcomes but also amplifies youth voice and action by supporting scholars as they produce real-world projects aimed at positive change. The 12 U.S. scholars and students in the African Leadership Academy will participate in virtual sessions, a weeklong experience at the Aspen Ideas Festival and work on Community Change projects.
Villalobos is in the fire tech program at Socorro High School, where she teaches young students the importance of fire safety and how to protect themselves in dangerous situations. She is also a gymnastics coach and wildlife advocate. As a Bezos Student Scholar, she is eager to learn from diverse changemakers, hone her leadership, and create a project that keeps her community and our planet thriving.
“I am very grateful to have been selected for the Bezos Scholarship program,” Villalobos said. “It is an amazing opportunity to help out my community in issues I am passionate about. I'm excited to learn from young leaders all over the country, and from the African Leadership Academy.”
Rubio was chosen as a Bezos Educator Scholar in support of Villalobos. As an instructor in the Socorro High School fire tech program, he guides teens toward careers in firefighting, law enforcement, and emergency medical services. As a Bezos Scholar, he looks forward to sharpening leadership tools he can pass to students and boosting their confidence to help shape how their communities can protect, heal, and thrive.
“The Bezos Scholarship is a well-deserved recognition for Isabella,” Rubio said. “Her hard work, leadership, and her generous spirit make her the perfect fit.”
The Community Change Projects are as diverse as the scholars themselves and are designed to align scholars’ passions with an existing community need. Many projects address the climate crisis, education, financial literacy and lack of access to opportunities. Since the program’s inception, scholars have launched 218 projects; there are more than 527 alums in the network.
“These student leaders and educator advocates are exactly who the world needs right now. We are honored to support and learn from such a brilliant, energized cohort,” said Molly Pencke, Senior Program Manager at the Bezos Family Foundation.