Historical Scholarship For Newton Community College Graduate

NEWTON, MA — A MassBay Community College graduate has been named the latest recipient of the Foster Furcolo Scholarship.

Jesica Jiminez Pineda, a member of the college’s class of 2025, was recognized with the award for her academic achievement and community service efforts. In May, she graduated with an Associate’s Degree in International Business, and finished with a 4.0 grade point average. She now has plans to transfer to University of Massachusetts Boston’s College of Management. The scholarship will fund two years-worth of tuition along with other fees. The Colombian native expressed her gratitude and excitement for the opportunity.

“I’m the youngest of five siblings and the first to move to another country for my education. My mother, who raised us on her own, has always believed in the power of higher education,” Jiminez Pineda said. “I’m currently working full-time to support my family back home, and this scholarship makes it possible for me to keep moving forward. Thank you, MassBay, for believing in me.”

John Foster Furcolo served as the state’s 60th governor from 1957-1961. During his time in government, he heavily advocated for community colleges. One graduate from 15 local community colleges are chosen to receive the namesake award each year.