Wave Staff Report
COMPTON — Compton College honored five presidential scholars and 38 scholarship recipients at its annual Academic and Scholarship Awards Ceremony. A total of 63 scholarships were awarded to students for a combined total of $63,925.
The 2026 Presidential Scholars are Geomar Bellini, Jessica Flores Bonilla, Mia Flores, Cha’Arveay Ivra and Alexsander Reyes. This year’s presidential scholars include several first-generation college students and three dual-enrolled high school students.
Presidential scholars represent students who have shown academic strength, singular focus and the desire to reach their highest potential, while overcoming obstacles in pursuit of their dreams. The Presidential program recognizes students who graduate with a 3.7 grade point average or higher. Below are highlights about each 2026 Presidential Scholar:
Bellini is a dual-enrolled student who attended Firebaugh High School in Lynwood and excelled in STEM coursework at Compton College. He is a civil engineering major who plans to continue his studies in higher education.
When Bellini and his mother first discussed the idea of him enrolling in classes at Compton College, he was nervous about what to expect and whether it would be too overwhelming. He said hewas pleased to discover that Compton College’s professors were accepting and supportive. event.
Bonilla graduated from Compton College with two associate degrees and plans to enter a nursing program. She maintained a 3.7 GPA while also working as a certified nursing assistant. A first-generation college student, she has balanced school, work, family responsibilities and health issues with recurring medical appointments while remaining committed to her goal of serving others in health care. She says Compton College helped her rebuild her confidence and move forward with purpose and determination.
“It has been a place where I found support, opportunity, and direction,” she said.
Flores is a Compton College dual-enrolled student who attended Paramount High School. In June 2026, she graduated from both institutions with an associate degree and a diploma, respectively. A first-generation college student, Flores is an administration of justice major who plans to transfer to a four-year university to major in criminal justice.
After being accepted to 11 out of 12 universities she applied to, Flores decided to attend UC Davis in the fall to continue her pursuit of becoming an attorney.
“I will forever be grateful for the opportunity Compton College has given me and for the outstanding support the college provided throughout my journey,” she said.
Ivra is a psychology major who returned to college after overcoming significant personal challenges and has earned a 4.0 GPA while making the Dean’s List each semester. Ivra graduated with associate degrees in psychology, social and behavioral sciences, and arts and humanities. He was active on campus, serving as an English tutor and now plans to transfer to a university to continue his higher education.
“I realized education would be the foundation for rebuilding my life and I’m committed to this goal,” he said. Compton College has influenced my life by giving me the opportunity to grow, rebuild, and believe in my potential.”
Reyes is a dual-enrolled student who earned his high school diploma and three associate degrees from Compton College in arts and humanities, social and behavioral science, and culture and communication. He plans to transfer to Cal Poly Pomona, to major in sociology.
He said Compton College helped shape both his academic path and his commitment to giving back to his community.
“Compton College didn’t just influence my life; it gave me the foundation to build my legacy,” he added.
