ESPAÑOLA, NM — The LANL Foundation is pleased to announce the 2026 recipients of its scholarship awards, recognizing the achievements of outstanding students across Northern New Mexico as they pursue higher education.
This year, 163 students have been awarded scholarships totaling nearly $1.2 million to pursue bachelor’s degrees.
Since 1999, the LANL Foundation has awarded nearly 2,900 scholarships, approaching $15 million in total funding. These scholarships are made possible through the generosity of the workforce of Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL), Triad National Security, The New Mexico Consortium, Anchorum Health Foundation, CHRISTUS St. Vincent, and community members who have entrusted the LANL Foundation to administer their named and endowed scholarship funds.
Among this year’s recipients are three exceptional students who have been awarded the prestigious $20,000 Gold Scholarship:
Eileen Ou, a senior at The Academy for Technology and the Classics in Santa Fe, is a National Merit Finalist, international HOSA (Health Occupation Students of America) champion, and dedicated volunteer who plans to pursue global health and expand healthcare access in underserved communities.
Sydney Zellers, the top-ranked student at V. Sue Cleveland High School in Rio Rancho, is a three-time state champion and national qualifier in Mock Trial, a New Mexico Speech and Debate medalist, and dedicated school and community leader who plans to study political science and law to better understand and shape societal systems.
Antonio Romero, valedictorian of Robertson High School, has balanced academics, work, and family caregiving while leading his local FFA chapter, performing as a mariachi violinist, and completing extensive college coursework. These experiences have shaped his goal to pursue law, using his education to strengthen families and communities.
“These scholarships are more than financial awards; they are bridges among generations. A LANL Foundation scholarship honors the resilience of our ancestors while investing in the brilliance of our youth, ensuring that the talent rooted in our mountains and valleys has the resources to flourish—and the power to give back to both the world and the communities we call home,” said LANL Foundation President and CEO Gwen Perea Warniment.
In addition to scholarship funding, LANL Scholars gain access to a range of opportunities designed to support their success beyond high school and into their careers. Through on-campus support programs, professional mentorship, and internship experiences, the LANL Foundation equips students with the resources and guidance needed to thrive academically and professionally.
Scholars attending the University of New Mexico and New Mexico State University benefit from campus-based programs that provide targeted support for first-year and transfer students. These programs are led by LANL Scholar Student Ambassadors, who help foster community and peer-to-peer support. The Professional Mentorship Program further connects students with experienced professionals in their fields of interest, offering guidance, career insight, and valuable networking opportunities. Since 2021, the program has paired nearly 70 students with mentors.
LANL Scholars may also participate in paid summer internships at Los Alamos National Laboratory, Thornburg Investment Management, and other regional employers.
The Foundation will honor this year’s recipients and donors at its annual Scholarship Reception this May. For more information about the LANL Foundation and its scholarship programs, visit lanlfoundation.org
To donate to the scholarship fund, click here.
For inquiries about scholarships, mentorship, or internship opportunities, please contact Mike Ammerman, Scholarship Program Director, at mike@lanlfoundation.org.
About the LANL Foundation
Since 1997, the LANL Foundation has been investing in education, learning, and human potential in Northern New Mexico. Through diverse programming and collaboration with key partners, the LANL Foundation works to ensure that all New Mexicans have the skills and confidence they need to be self-sufficient lifelong learners who are engaged in their communities. LANL Foundation is dedicated to the enhancement of students’ access to academic and technical opportunities, leading to quality jobs by supporting college and career readiness in schools, districts, communities, Pueblos, Tribes, and Nations. For more information visit lanlfoundation.org.