#United States #McLean #STEM Education #NVTC #Kilberg Scholarship

NVTC Reveals 2025 Kilberg Scholarship Honorees

On July 2, 2025, the Northern Virginia Technology Council (NVTC) proudly proclaimed its selection of five outstanding young women as the recipients of the 2025 NVTC Foundation Kilberg Scholarship. Established in 2021 at the Community Foundation for Northern Virginia (CFNOVA), this scholarship aims to empower young women who aspire to build careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Each of the awarded students will receive a $5,000 scholarship to support their academic progression in these vital fields.

The scholarships awarded this year are a testament to NVTC's ongoing commitment to fostering a healthy pool of future talent in the tech sector. Jennifer Taylor, President and CEO of NVTC, emphasized the importance of nurturing young women in STEM, stating, "This scholarship represents NVTC's commitment to nurturing a robust pipeline of emerging talent and championing women who are poised to lead in STEM fields. Supporting these young women isn't just an investment in individual futures — it's strategically important to help build an inclusive, innovative workforce that drives Northern Virginia's continued economic growth."

Meet the 2025 Kilberg Scholarship Recipients:

1. Mena Ahmed – A graduate of Centreville High School, she is set to attend George Mason University.
2. Uma Foster – A graduate of Battlefield High School, she will be pursuing her studies at the University of Pittsburgh.
3. Amy Fernandez Garcia – A graduate of Falls Church High School with plans to enroll at George Mason University.
4. Raneem Hammouda – A graduate of Gar-Field High School who will continue her education at Virginia Commonwealth University.
5. Ana Rivera Martinez – A graduate of Tuscarora High School, she is set to attend Virginia Tech.

These remarkable young women symbolize the promising future of the STEM workforce. Their dedication to their academics and to serving their communities showcases the essence of the Kilberg Scholarship. As Bobbie Kilberg, the retired NVTC President and CEO, stated, "This extraordinary group reflects the promise of tomorrow's workforce... their academic drive and commitment to service exemplify the spirit of this scholarship."

The NVTC Foundation Kilberg Scholarship Fund is dedicated to honoring the legacy of community service demonstrated by Bobbie Kilberg in the technology sector of Northern Virginia. Annually, scholarships are awarded to high school seniors or graduates who are pursuing post-secondary education or vocational training in STEM fields. The selection process evaluates candidates based on demonstrated financial need, residency, and their commitment to an academic path in STEM.

Reviewed by a volunteer committee, the selection process is designed to be fair and transparent, ensuring that the scholarships reach the most deserving candidates. The Community Foundation for Northern Virginia manages the scholarship fund, propelling regional philanthropy and social impact forward.

About the Organizations

• - Northern Virginia Technology Council (NVTC): NVTC acts as the trade association for the Northern Virginia technology landscape, representing a diverse array of organizations, ranging from new startups to established Fortune 100 companies. The organization offers vital networking, advocacy, and educational resources to its members.

• - NVTC Foundation (NVTCF): A 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to bridging the gap for underrepresented communities in the technology field, facilitating connections to education and employment opportunities in the burgeoning tech job market in Northern Virginia.

• - Community Foundation for Northern Virginia (CFNOVA): This public charity focuses on fostering equity and social leadership within the community, enhancing support for charitable endeavors while presenting data-driven insights into the pressing issues affecting the region.

The impact of these scholarships not only changes the individual lives of the recipients but also contributes to the broader narrative of women's empowerment and strategic workforce development in technology and innovation. Through its efforts, NVTC seeks to establish a future where talented women thrive and lead in their respective fields, creating a more inclusive environment for all.

For further information about NVTC and the scholarships, please visit www.nvtc.org.