Each year, more than 17,000 students are nominated for the Posse Foundation scholarships. Fewer than 1,000 are selected nationwide, making it one of the most competitive full-tuition scholarships in the country, with an acceptance rate of about five percent. 

The process is competitive and demanding. Students move through multiple rounds of interviews, presenting in front of large groups, collaborating with peers, and demonstrating not just academic strength, but leadership, resilience, and the ability to support others. 

Those selected earn full-tuition scholarships to one of Posse’s 52 partner colleges and universities across the country. They also gain something just as important, a cohort of peers who will train together before college and support one another throughout their journey. 

This year, nine Prep seniors earned that opportunity! Each brings a story shaped by hard work, purpose, and commitment to something bigger than themselves. Here are three of our scholars: 

 

Atirolaoluwa Adegbite, Brays Oaks Secondary 

Atirolaoluwa Adegbite will attend Bryn Mawr College this fall, where she plans to study neuroscience or biology and pursue a career as a physician assistant. Throughout her academic career, she has taken full advantage of opportunities like Atlas and the Houston Methodist Rising Stars Summer Enrichment program to explore her interest in health care and build real-world knowledge. 

“Since middle school, Ati has stood out for her love of learning and her drive to go beyond what is expected. She is always looking for ways to grow, and as a senior, she has taken full ownership of her path by actively pursuing new opportunities and staying ahead of her goals,” said Margaret Goergen, director of college counseling at Brays Oaks Secondary. 

She has also been a consistent leader on campus, participating in multiple sports while serving as president of the Black Student Association and service chair for student government. Her commitment extends beyond school through volunteer work with her church and the American Red Cross. Known for pushing herself beyond expectations, Adegbite has spent years seeking additional challenges and opportunities to grow. Even while balancing a demanding senior year, she stayed focused on her goals and continued to pursue what was possible for her future. 

 

Vanessa Hernandez, Brays Oaks Secondary 

Vanessa Hernandez will also attend Bryn Mawr College, where she plans to study biology or neuroscience and pursue a career as a registered nurse. Her time in high school has been shaped by a strong commitment to serving others and building a future rooted in care. 

“Vanessa leads with compassion in everything she does. She is always looking for ways to support others and make a positive impact, and her ability to bring empathy and care into every space truly sets her apart,” said Goergen. 

Through Compass RN, Hernandez explored the medical field and began developing the skills and knowledge that will support her career. On campus, she has taken on leadership roles as fundraising chair for the Latin Student Association while also contributing to National Honor Society and Brays Giving Back. She is known for leading with compassion, always finding ways to support those around her and bring a sense of care into every space she enters. Motivated by her parents, Hernandez has worked toward making her education more affordable, driven by a desire to pursue her goals while easing the financial burden on her family. 

 

Andres Aguinaga, Northline Secondary 

Andres Aguinaga will attend Colby College this fall, where he plans to study data science and pursue a career in financial or business consulting. His journey to Colby began during his junior spring trip, when he first visited the campus and immediately felt a sense of connection. The quieter, rural environment stood in contrast to Houston, but it was exactly what drew him in and confirmed his decision. 

“I have always believed it’s important to try, in everything you do. Try to do well in school, try to be the best musician you can be, and try to enjoy your life,” Aguinaga said. 

On campus, Aguinaga has built his own path as both a leader and creator. He serves as financial director of the Senior Leadership Council and founded the YES Prep Music Club at Northline Secondary, creating space for students to connect and express themselves. That mindset of always trying has shaped how he shows up in the classroom and beyond. During the Posse selection process, he pushed through the challenge of presenting in front of large groups, overcoming anxiety to successfully complete each round of interviews. 

 

Additional Posse Scholars 

In addition to the students featured, these YES Prep seniors were also selected through the Posse scholarship. We are proud to celebrate their accomplishments and the opportunities they have earned. 

• Damaris Calixto, YES Prep Fifth Ward Secondary – Attending Colby College
• MaiLi Landheart, YES Prep North Forest Secondary – Attending Oberlin College
• Gracie Rubio, YES Prep Gulfton Secondary – Attending Oberlin College

 

A Future Built on Leadership and opportunity 

As these students prepare to take their next steps, we are confident they will continue to excel and make a lasting impact in their new academic environments and the communities they serve. 

From future health care professionals to leaders in business and technology, these Posse Scholars reflect a strong commitment to growth, leadership, and creating positive change. We look forward to seeing all they will accomplish in the years ahead. 

Congratulations to our 2026 YES Prep Posse Scholars. We are proud of all you have achieved and excited for what comes next. 

Learn more about how our College Initiatives team supports students on their path to and through college: click here.