East Aurora Student 1 Of 150 Nationwide To Win $20K Scholarship

AURORA, IL — An East Aurora High School student was one of only 150 students nationwide to be named a 2025 Coca-Cola Scholar.

Kevin Martinez was selected out of a pool of more than 105,000 candidates to be recognized for exceptional academic achievements, leadership and commitment to service.

The high school senior traveled to Atlanta to participate in Coca-Cola Scholars Weekend, where he was honored at the 37th annual Coca-Cola Scholars Banquet and took part in the Coca-Cola Scholars Leadership Development Institute.

Martinez is the student board member on the East Aurora School District 131 Board of Education, bridging the gap between students and district leadership. His extracurriculars extend to being a cohort leader of the Upward Bound TRIO Program and a member of the Student Council. He is also part of the National Honor Society, Aurora Youth Council and Youth Engagement in Philanthropy.

"Kevin has built an impressive record of involvement and leadership and his resilient mindset has earned him the position of Valedictorian," East Aurora School District 131 officials wrote in a news release.

Martinez was accepted into Harvard University this fall. He wants to explore the intersection of law and finance and drive equitable change, district officials said.

"I am writing to enthusiastically recommend Kevin Martinez, a standout student in the Class of 2025," East Aurora High School Principal Jennifer Mitchell said. "As the current valedictorian, Kevin consistently demonstrates exceptional academic prowess and a deep commitment to his education. His intellectual curiosity and strong work ethic have earned him the respect of his peers and teachers."