Fresno State freshman Emily Medina-Delgado was named the winner of the annual Paul DeRuosi Memorial Community Service Scholarship. The award, which includes a scholarship of up to $1,000, is presented annually to a student who exemplifies the commitment to service that DeRuosi championed during his distinguished 31-year career at Fresno State.
Growing up as one of eight children and the daughter of immigrant parents, Medina-Delgado witnessed firsthand the struggles and obstacles her parents faced.
“While my parents struggled financially to support our family, they taught me more than money could account for. I was taught the meaning of hard work and determination early on. I knew that I only wanted to make them proud, but also strive to become a better citizen in my community,” Medina-Delgado said.
Emily Medina-Delgado
Medina-Delgado, a liberal studies major, began serving her community during her freshman year at Reedley High School. She was involved in the Leo Club, Key Club and Interact Club.
Through opportunities related to the clubs, Medina-Delgado began volunteering by cleaning up the local parkway in Reedley. Her love for service grew as she addressed food insecurity needs by volunteering at a local food bank, The Poverello House and Community Food Bank. As a high school athlete, volunteering with local youth sports came naturally to Medina-Delgado. She volunteered as a youth soccer coach, youth baseball assistant coach and Tiny Tots assistant coach.
Medina-Delgado developed a love for community and helping others even through some of the most difficult situations. During the Creek Fire, she gathered a group of volunteers to sort clothing items and pack food boxes for families impacted by the fire.
When challenges with the pandemic arose, Medina-Delgado did not let the closures stop her desire to serve. She organized virtual meetings for students who wanted to volunteer. The volunteers created cards that were sent to retirement homes and put together care packages for teachers who taught virtually from their classrooms. She also assisted at the Big Fresno Fair, helping with traffic during the drive-thru eats event that was accommodated for the public during the quarantine.
After graduating from high school, Medina-Delgado’s desire to continue serving prompted her to join the Reedley Lions Club. She currently serves on the board of directors working to connect the International Club with the local high school Leo Club. Through the Lions Club, Medina-Delgado recently co-chaired the annual Blossom Trail Bike Ride, in which she helped to plan the event and oversee volunteer recruitment.
As Medina-Delgado transitioned from a youth volunteer, she is drawing upon her experience to serve as the co-advisor for the Greater Reedley Chamber of Commerce Junior Board. The board is comprised of local high school students who serve in the community of Reedley.
Upon learning that she won the Paul DeRuosi Memorial Community Service Scholarship, Medina-Delgado said, “Volunteering and serving others is my strongest passion, as it has allowed me to become connected to those around me. I cannot express how grateful I am to be this year’s recipient. I hope to carry on his legacy and spread volunteerism among youth.”
(Story by Renee Delport, Richter Center)
