Jozetta Chavez of MHS Receives Joseph Vigil Scholarship

Jozetta Chavez, a 2008 Manzano H.S. graduate, was this year’s recipient of the Joseph M. Vigil Special Education Scholarship Award. Jozetta has been accepted into the Automotive and Diesel Mechanics Program at the Universal Technical Institute in Phoenix in the fall. Jozetta has enjoyed working on cars since she changed her first tire at age thirteen, and is looking forward to working on trucks as well. She sees her career choice as something different and challenging that will help her reach her highest potential and insure success in her life.

During her four years at Manzano, Jozetta has had to overcome a number of educational and personal challenges. But despite her difficult circumstances, she has impressed her teachers by doing well in school, running the DECA store and lettering in track. Jozetta is described by staff as a strong self-advocate who is direct, confident, friendly and unique.

The Special Education Scholarship Fund was established in 2004 in memory of Dr. Joseph M. Vigil, former APS Superintendent, who was a life-long supporter of special education. The scholarship was intended to support graduating seniors who have overcome difficult challenges and who wish to pursue a post-secondary education as a means to improving their lives.