Indianapolis, Indiana – Indianapolis Public Schools (IPS) is thrilled to announce that six outstanding students have been recognized by the prestigious Carson Scholars Fund (CSF) in 2025. This year, the school district celebrates both new honorees and those continuing to uphold the high standards of the program. These students have either earned $1,000 college scholarships or have been acknowledged for their ongoing achievements, making them shining examples of academic excellence and community service.
The Carson Scholars Fund is a highly respected nonprofit organization that honors students in grades 4-11 who not only excel academically but also demonstrate extraordinary humanitarian qualities. To be recognized, students must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.75 while also making meaningful contributions to their communities through service work. This year, IPS proudly celebrates the selection of four new Carson Scholars and two exceptional students who have earned multiple honors.
The newly awarded Carson Scholars from IPS include:
• Rafael Garrido, an 11th-grade student at George Washington High School
• Diana Lopez Rivera, an 11th-grade student at Crispus Attucks Medical Magnet High School
• Yaretzi Perez, a 6th-grade student at Northwest Middle School
• Karol Redondo-Ponce, an 11th-grade student at Shortridge High School
In addition to these new honorees, two students were also recognized for their continued excellence in the program:
• Marized Eusebio-Perez, a 12th-grade student at George Washington High School, who is a two-time Carson Scholar
• Jeralyn Perez, an 11th-grade student at Shortridge High School, who has now earned recognition for the fifth time
These scholars will be celebrated at the 21st annual Pittsburgh Carson Scholars Awards Ceremony, which will be held on April 6, 2025, at Acrisure Stadium. This prestigious event is part of a nationwide series of regional banquets organized by the CSF, where 579 new scholars and 931 recognized scholars from across the country will be honored—marking the largest cohort of Carson Scholars in history.
Superintendent of Indianapolis Public Schools, Dr. Aleesia Johnson, expressed her pride in the students’ accomplishments. “We are incredibly proud of these students who have not only achieved academic excellence but have also dedicated themselves to making a positive impact in their communities. They are the future leaders of our city and our nation.”
The Carson Scholars Fund was founded in 1994 by Dr. Benjamin Carson, a retired pediatric neurosurgeon, and his wife, Candy. Over the years, the fund has awarded more than 12,000 scholarships to students nationwide, empowering them to continue their educational journeys while giving back to society. Dr. Carson’s vision was to recognize students who embody both academic prowess and a commitment to service, and the fund continues to fulfill this mission year after year.
This recognition serves as a testament to the hard work, dedication, and perseverance of Indianapolis Public Schools students. The community is excited to see these young leaders make their mark in the world, both in their academic fields and through their service to others.
As the 2025 Carson Scholars prepare for their big day in April, IPS continues to foster a learning environment where students are encouraged to excel, serve, and lead. These scholars are not just students—they are trailblazers, setting the stage for future generations to follow in their footsteps.
