Apply
Applications for the 2026 cohort will be open from October 7th -November 17th, 2025.
Program Eligibility Requirements:
Student Applicant Requirements:
Be of high school age;
be a Washington State Resident;
be a U.S. citizen or a permanent legal resident of the United States;
Possess and interest and desire to make a change in their local community.
Mentor Applicant Requirements:
Have a passion for education and mentorship;
be a U.S. citizen or a permanent legal resident of the United States;
be willing to undergo a Background Check;
have strong organizational and leadership skills.
Past Cohorts
Compassion Scholars 2024 Cohort
Scholars
Elena Lin Oak - Harbor High School
Lex Swift - Cusick High School
Lucie Dhaliwal-Grizzell - Spokane International Academy
Noah Aquino - North Beach High School
Vy Le - Olympia High School
Mentors
Claire Wilson - Washington State Senator
Francisco Tamayo - Student Financial Services Specialist
Maria Siguenza - Executive Director of the Washington State Commission on Hispanic Affairs
Tracy Morgan - University 4-H Extension Coordinator
Compassion Scholars 2023 Cohort
Scholars
Ariana Vargas - Grandview High School
Kay’lisha Garcia - Lincoln High School
Miriam Gutierrez - Tonasket High School
Mentors
Cynthia Tamayo - Operations and Special Projects Manager for the Commission on Hispanic Affairs
Jennifer Shaar - Consultant for the Department of Defense
Olivia Sarriugarte - Program Manager for Seattle/King County Clinic
Tara Smith - Director of the Washington State Department of Enterprise Services
Compassion Scholars 2025 Cohort
Scholars
Gabriel Linares - Spokane International Academy
Isla Hansen - Spokane International Academy
Kieran Sills-Powell - Summit Virtual Academy
Melinda Rodriquez - West Valley High School
Sofia Gomez - White River High School
Mentors
Ciera Graham - K-12 Manager, City of Seattle Dept of Education & Early Learning
David Muehleisen - Emeritus Professor
James Crawford - Former School Superintendent
Leslie Vazquez Tamayo - Excise Tax Examiner
Omar Santana-Gomez - Legislative Director, WA Office of Equity