Catalina Foothills High School is proud to celebrate five members of the Class of 2026 who have been named recipients of the University of Arizona's prestigious new President's Saguaro Scholars Award: (l-r) Inara Smith, Felisberto Pondeca, Sophia Toapha, Connor Doty, and Ava Glasner.

The President's Saguaro Scholars Award is brand new this year. It is one of the University of Arizona's most selective merit scholarships, awarded to approximately 100 outstanding Arizona resident first-year students statewide. Each scholar receives up to $60,000 over four years of undergraduate study. Named for the iconic Saguaro cactus, described by UA President Garimella as a "keystone species" that sustains its community, the award recognizes exceptional academic achievement and academic potential and encourages Arizona's strongest students to pursue their university experience in-state.

Selection is highly competitive. Nominees are evaluated on overall academic performance, the rigor of their coursework, extracurricular contributions in writing, research, or other areas, and evidence of long-term academic potential and career goals. Nominations are submitted by teachers, counselors, administrators, or community members, meaning each of these five Falcons was personally championed by someone who recognized something exceptional in them.

Having five recipients from a single high school in the award's inaugural year is a remarkable distinction. Please join us in congratulating Inara, Felisberto, Sophia, Connor, and Ava. We wish them all the best as they head to the University of Arizona this fall. 🌵

Learn more about the President's Saguaro Scholars Award at arizona.edu. Photo credit: Chris Hsieh, La Brisa Photography