August 5, 2025

Coronado Junior Woman’s Club Awards Scholarships to Graduates

News Summary

The Coronado Junior Woman’s Club has awarded four scholarships of $2,500 each to outstanding graduates from Coronado High School. The recipients, recognized for their academic excellence and community service, are Jaya Jost, Olivia McKissick, Chloe Quarles, and Alivia Schmidgal. The Marilyn Foster Scholarship program honors the legacy of community leader Marilyn Foster. CJWC continues to support young women through scholarships and community initiatives.

Coronado – The Coronado Junior Woman’s Club (CJWC) has awarded four scholarships of $2,500 each to outstanding graduates from the Class of 2025 at Coronado High School (CHS). The recipients—Jaya Jost, Olivia McKissick, Chloe Quarles, and Alivia Schmidgal—were recognized for their academic excellence and commitment to community service.

The scholarships are part of the Marilyn Foster Scholarship program, which was established in 2009 to honor the legacy of Marilyn Foster. Foster was a significant community influence, known for her roles as a military spouse and community leader. Her contributions included extensive involvement with the Coronado Hospital Foundation, the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park, and she was also recognized as an award-winning gardener.

To be eligible for the scholarship, high school senior girls who either attend CHS or reside in Coronado were required to submit an essay application. Awardees were selected anonymously by a committee of CJWC members, representing a fair and unbiased evaluation process. A celebratory check presentation ceremony is held annually for the scholarship winners.

The CJWC aims to provide at least two to three scholarships each year, based on successful fundraising efforts. The upcoming major fundraising event for the CJWC, titled “Taste of Coronado,” is scheduled for October 8, 2025. Tickets for the event will be available for purchase approximately one month prior to the event.

Details About the Scholars

Jaya Jost, one of the scholarship recipients, plans to attend the University of California, Los Angeles, where she will study Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering with aspirations of developing advanced cancer treatments. During her time at CHS, Jost participated in various extracurricular activities, including Varsity Cross Country, Lacrosse, Surf teams, and the National Honor Society.

Olivia McKissick is set to pursue her studies at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, aiming to specialize in medicine and eventually become a physician. With a strong background in visual arts, she has also taken on leadership roles, including serving as the president of the CoSA Student Council.

Chloe Quarles will attend the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, aspiring to become an anesthesiologist. Her interest in this medical field stems from personal experiences related to cardiac surgeries. Quarles also demonstrated leadership as a team captain of the CHS Varsity Swim team and was an active competitive swimmer.

Alivia Schmidgal plans to enroll at the University of Southern California, focusing on a career as a military physician. Schmidgal’s involvement in competitive cheer has enriched her leadership skills, and she has expressed a desire to empower younger students and athletes through mentoring initiatives.

Community Engagement and Future Plans

The four scholarship winners represent the sixteenth cohort of Marilyn Foster Scholarship recipients, all recognized for their dedication to community service and personal achievement. Chelsea Fox, the incoming president of CJWC, has indicated that the organization remains committed to supporting the growth and success of young women in the Coronado area.

For further information about CJWC, its membership opportunities, and upcoming events, individuals are encouraged to visit the organization’s official website. The CJWC continues to strive towards empowering young women and contributing positively to the Coronado community.