USD 308 COMMUNICATIONS
HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Giselle Rodriguez, a senior at Hutchinson High School, was surprised this week with a full-ride Rudd Scholarship during a special presentation that left her overwhelmed with joy.
Counselors invited Rodriguez to the office under the pretense of signing a scholarship application. Instead, she walked into a room filled with coaches, teachers, administrators, her best friend and members of the Rudd Foundation team — all gathered to celebrate her achievement. The moment culminated with the presentation of a ceremonial check and the life-changing scholarship announcement.
Rodriguez has distinguished herself at Hutchinson High School by balancing rigorous academics, athletics and employment. A member of the National Honor Society, she upholds the organization’s values of scholarship, service, leadership and character. A varsity soccer player, Rodriguez is enrolled in the International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme in health sciences. She also serves as president of HOSA–Future Health Professionals and participates in Fellowship of Christian Athletes.
The IB Career-related Programme combines a rigorous academic framework with career-focused learning, allowing students to align coursework with their professional interests while gaining practical skills, industry certifications and real-world experience. Hutchinson High School offers 22 career pathways, including health sciences, engineering, business management and entrepreneurship, marketing, government and public administration, programming and software development, and family and consumer sciences.
The Rudd Scholarship is a comprehensive, full-ride, four-year award recognizing grit, determination and strong work ethic. The scholarship covers tuition, room and board, books, supplies and other college expenses. Scholars also receive mentoring, professional development, networking opportunities and individualized support throughout their college careers.
“Receiving this scholarship opens many doors for me. This opportunity will allow me to pursue higher education alongside other students with similar goals, values and drive,” Rodriguez said. “Not only have I been awarded a scholarship, but I now have the privilege to navigate my academic journey with the help and support of an amazing cohort and mentors. I couldn’t be more excited to gain the knowledge and experience I need to serve others and contribute to my community.”
The program boasts a 100% four-year graduation rate among retained scholars, with 60% of recipients being first-generation college students. Since its inception, the Rudd Foundation has awarded more than 200 scholarships, investing over $10 million in Kansas students.
Long Road to Acceptance
Rodriguez was initially hesitant to apply because of the scholarship’s competitive and prestigious nature. The application window runs from Oct. 1 to Dec. 1. Out of more than 700 applicants in 2025, only 50 scholarships were awarded. Eligibility requirements include a minimum 3.0 GPA, ACT or SAT submission, Kansas residency and demonstrated financial need. The application process includes letters of recommendation, essays and a final-round interview.
Rodriguez credits her IB teachers and counselors with encouraging her to apply, and her personal and professional skills teacher, Kelli Lusk, with helping her prepare for the interview process.
“I would tell other students that there’s nothing to lose by applying, so just do it,” Rodriguez said. “The process can help anyone grow and gain experience. It is important to learn how to advocate for yourself and take a moment to reflect on your goals.”
She plans to attend Fort Hays State University to pursue a degree in nursing. In December, Rodriguez was pinned as a certified nursing assistant after completing the CNA program at Hutchinson High School. She credits her instructor, Addie Ehling, RN, medical science teacher and HOSA advisor, with inspiring her to enter the nursing field.
“Giselle is an excellent student whose work ethic and positive attitude set a strong example for others,” Ehling said. “She is an active member of our medical science program and approaches challenges with confidence. It has truly been an honor to have her serve as our HOSA Future Health Professionals chapter president. She consistently demonstrates leadership, dedication and a passion for helping others. I am excited to see the positive impact she will have on the health care field in the years to come.”
Family First
Rodriguez said balancing a rigorous course load with athletics and extracurricular activities was challenging but rewarding. She credits her family for their unwavering support and recognizes that the scholarship is life-changing not only for her but for them as well. Rodriguez is the daughter of Salvador and Berenice Rodriguez.
“To my family, this news was the biggest blessing. Both of my parents are immensely proud and overjoyed on my behalf, as this moment is also a culmination of their hard work and sacrifices throughout the years,” Rodriguez said. “I owe my work ethic and determination to them. They have always instilled in me the importance of giving my full effort in anything I do. Throughout my senior year, my objective of making my family proud has persisted, and today I was able to fulfill that pursuit.”
After receiving the surprise news, Rodriguez called her parents, sharing tearful excitement as they celebrated together over the phone — a moment that reflected years of hard work, perseverance and determination.