MPC Foundation Awards $712K in Scholarships to Over 300 Students
Annual ceremony celebrates academic achievement, resilience, and donor support
Monterey, CA – May 9, 2025 – The Monterey Peninsula College (MPC) Foundation proudly awarded $712,000 in scholarships at its annual Scholarship Awards Ceremony on May 8, honoring more than 300 students for their academic achievements and personal perseverance.
Held at the Pacific Grove Performing Arts Center, the celebratory event featured keynote speaker Ted Balestreri, MPC alumnus and CEO/Chairman of the Cannery Row Company, who urged students to lead with courage and character as they pursue their goals.
In total, the MPC Foundation awarded 306 scholarships and 50 Evans College Incentive Awards, providing vital financial support to a diverse group of students—including those completing their first year at MPC, incoming first-time students, and graduates transferring to four-year universities or beginning their careers.
“The MPC Foundation’s growing scholarship program reflects our commitment to empowering students through access to higher education,” said Dr. Marshall T. Fulbright III, Superintendent/President of Monterey Peninsula College. “We are deeply grateful to our donors for their investments in future leaders.”
Beccie Michael, Executive Director of the MPC Foundation and emcee of the event, added, “Students, please remember you are surrounded by people who believe in you and are cheering you on. And when you reach your goals—and we know you will—we hope you’ll consider paying it forward to support the next generation.”
One of the evening’s most powerful moments came from MPC student William “Kite” Hampton IV, who shared his personal journey from aspiring race car driver to future interventional radiologist—a path shaped by his father’s illness and his time at MPC.
“MPC provided access to resources that supported my growth and a community that made me feel seen, valued, and never alone,” said Hampton. “To our donors—thank you. Your support is more than financial aid. It's a belief. It’s hope. It’s impact. You help students like me turn adversity into purpose. Thank you, MPC, for being a place of second chances—for helping me find my voice, my purpose, and my future.”
Amid cheers and family pride, students crossed the stage one by one to receive scholarships ranging from $100 to $20,000, each award representing a meaningful step on their journey toward a brighter future.
View photos and watch the video of Kite Hampton’s moving speech. Watch the video of the whole ceremony here.
For more information about the event, or to find out how you can contribute to the MPC Foundation–including establishing a student scholarship–please contact mpcfoundationinfo@mpc.edu or call (831) 655-5507.