Dodge City, KS – A typical school day turned into a life-changing celebration when representatives from the Wichita-based Rudd Foundation made a surprise visit to Dodge City High School.  They took the stage to make the announcement that Vanessa Rayo Real was selected as a Rudd Scholar.

Vanessa was awarded $100,000 scholarship, providing her with a “full ride” to a state university in Kansas.

The announcement was met with cheers from the student body as Vanessa’s name was called. The Rudd Scholarship is a competitive award given to high-achieving students who demonstrate leadership, grit, and commitment to their community.

Vanessa shared that she plans to attend Wichita State University this fall, where she will major in Nursing.

Reflections fro DCHS Faculty:

Vanessa’s selection comes as no surprise to the educators who have mentored her throughout her time at DCHS.

Monica Cookson, DCHS English Teacher:

“ Vanessa is such an incredible student who is kind and compassionate to all who know her. She is so deserving of this scholarship and works diligently to be her best self at all times. It has been my honor and privilege to be her teacher. She is going to do amazing things in her life, and this scholarship will assist her in fulfilling all her dreams. I am so incredibly proud of her and thankful to have had the opportunity to know her.” 

Lou Ann Barker, DCHS Counselor: 

“I have enjoyed working with Vanessa all four years of her high school career. Not only does she excel in academics, but with people as well.  She has a fun personality and is always so kind and polite; she puts others at ease. I have witnessed this within the school setting and outside of it.  I have no doubts she will excel in the health career of her choice.”  

Erin Stevens, DCHS Science Teacher:

"Vanessa’s drive and heart make us incredibly proud at DCHS. She is a compassionate, driven young woman who doesn’t just take opportunities for herself, she carries others with her. As she was awarded her scholarship during lunch, I looked out across the cafeteria and saw younger students watching her with hope, thinking, ‘that could be me!" That is the true power of Vanessa’s impact. She shows our students what is possible and reminds us that when one rises, she lifts an entire community with her.