M.O.S.T. Senior Reception Honors 22 Outstanding Scholars

On Wednesday, May 7, 2025, twenty-two M.O.S.T. Scholars, from ten area private high schools, celebrated their graduations at our annual M.O.S.T. Senior Reception. The event brought together donors, supporters, and the families to honor the hard work and achievements of these exceptional students.

Founded in 1998 by Bob Solmson, M.O.S.T. was created to give Memphis students access to the education they want and deserve. Since its inception, M.O.S.T. has been fueled by a dedicated community of supporters who believe in the power of education. Thanks to our supporters, M.O.S.T. contributed $584,000 in scholarships to these seniors throughout their academic journeys.

"I was heartened to see the pride and happiness in the faces of the graduates and their families at the reception, to learn of their high school accomplishments, and to rejoice with them about their admission to four-year colleges with scholarships," said Ellis Haguewood, M.O.S.T. Board Member and McDonnell Scholars Chair. "It was especially rewarding to hear heartfelt expressions of gratitude to their families and to M.O.S.T. and to know that M.O.S.T. was an instrumental part of their successes."

This year's graduates are heading to schools across the region and country, many with full or partial scholarships, athletic offers, and honors program invitations. Here's a look at where they're headed:

Jordan Brown, graduating from Briarcrest Christian School and headed to Harding University on a football scholarship.

Taylor Christian, graduating from St. George's Independent School and headed to University of Tennessee, Chattanooga.

Tailyr Clark, graduating from Briarcrest Christian School and headed to University of Tennessee, Chattanooga  on the UT Promise Scholarship.

Joe Edwards, graduating from Christian Brothers High School and headed to Arkansas State University on the A-State Inspire Scholarship and an athletic scholarship for both cross country and track.

Cameron Earnest, graduating from Lausanne Collegiate School and headed to Middle Tennessee State University on the Lovell Burnett Memorial Scholarship.

Adrian Gonzalez, graduating from Christian Brothers High School and headed to Moore Tech.

Danna Gonzalez, graduating from St. Agnes Academy and headed to University of Memphis.

Victoria Gonzalez, graduating from St. Agnes Academy and headed to University of Memphis.

Christian Herrera, graduating from Christian Brothers High School and headed to University of Tennessee, Knoxville on the Orange and White Scholarship.

Holly Herrera, graduating from St. George',s Independent School and headed to University of Tennessee, Chattanooga.

Cailan Jackson, graduating from Lausanne Collegiate School and headed to University of Tennessee, Chattanooga on multiple scholarships.

Omar Jebril, graduating from Pleasant View School and headed to Vanderbilt University.

Abeer Khatib, graduating from Pleasant View School and headed to University of Memphis.

Jayden Lester, graduating from Central Baptist School and headed to University of Memphis on the Tennessee Promise Scholarship.

Hellen Mabone, graduating from Lausanne Collegiate School and headed to University of Chattanooga on multiple scholarships.

Aria Martin, graduating from St. George's Independent School and headed to University of Tennessee, Chattanooga on the Provosts Scholarship and the Brock Scholars Honors College Scholarship.

Erica McGary, graduating from Harding Academy and headed to University of Arkansas, Little Rock on the Chancellor Leadership Scholarship and an athletic scholarship.

Karla Ochoa, graduating from St. Benedict at Auburndale and headed to University of Memphis.

Christelle Pierre Louis, graduating from Briarcrest Christian School and headed to University of Memphis.

Alina Rodriguez, graduating from St. Benedict at Auburndale and headed to University of Memphis.

Jamie Woods, graduating from Hutchison School and headed to University of Tennessee, Knoxville on multiple scholarships.

Teanir Yusuf, graduating from Pleasant View School and headed to Rhodes College.

The energy in the room was undeniable, with equal parts celebration and inspiration. For many families, the moment was bittersweet, filled with emotion and hope for what lies ahead.

"As a parent, I'm excited to watch Victoria step into this new chapter in her life. It is bittersweet and I can't wait to see how she continues to grow and chase her dreams! With her strong spirit and God's guidance, I know she's going to do amazing things in this world," said Leticia Mendoza, mother of graduate Victoria Gonzalez.

Victoria echoed her mom's sentiment. "I'm excited for this big change in my life, and although it's a little nerve-racking, I know the future holds so many great things and opportunities for me. I'm looking forward to meeting new people, having a fresh start, and figuring out more about who I am and what I want to do."

The determination and success of these students reflect the mission of M.O.S.T.--to make quality education accessible and to empower the next generation of Memphis leaders.

Congratulations to the Class of 2025! Your journey is just beginning, and we cannot wait to see where it takes you.