Iliana Arie Scholarship

liana Arie Velez was born with determination, ambition, and a competitive spirit in all aspects of her life. She was a beacon of light, radiating with fiery energy that ignited at any given moment. She had a deep passion and talent for running, art, fashion, dancing, and music, and eventually became a self-taught musician. At the age of 16, her true independence blossomed as she not only participated in long after-school track practices, but also managed to balance working multiple jobs as well as voluntarily taking on the responsibility of picking up her younger sister from school. Any fear she had experienced previously in any part of life as a growing adolescent, was replaced with courage. By the age of 17, Iliana achieved the Katy I.S.D. Track & Field District Championship Title in the 4x400 Meter Relay for her high school. Her consistency and drive led her to earn a total of 40 medals in her high school track career. She also demonstrated her self-taught musical ability by performing her most popular songs on her piano on multiple social platforms. She served as a magnet, bringing together all individuals, and was genuinely loved by anyone she interacted with. Iliana loved to dance, and she was amazing at belly dancing. 

Engaging in conversation with Iliana was immediately accompanied by a glow on her face, especially if a common interest was shared. She thrived on sharing and expanding her passions by engaging in deep intellectual conversations about the world, human behavior, life, and the afterlife.

Iliana often described herself and her journey throughout high school as "A dandelion floating in the wind." Iliana was a writer, and one of her last entries is as follows. "Our purpose in life is to ride the waves in the ocean, our reasoning in life is spiritual development."   Last, but not least, Iliana would always encourage others by saying, "You got this!”

Any high school senior or undergraduate student in Texas who comes from a single-parent household may apply for this scholarship.

To apply, tell us about yourself, how coming from a single-parent household has affected you, and how you plan to make a difference in the world.