Milwaukee County Transit System (MCTS) is proud to announce the winners of its fifth annual Rosa Parks Tribute Scholarship essay contest. High school seniors across Milwaukee County were invited to submit essays inspired by Rosa Parks’ words, “Each person must live their life as a model for others.” This year, over 130 students participated, with a panel of judges selecting three outstanding winners to receive $1,000 scholarships:
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Angel Piper (Milwaukee Public Schools Virtual Program) - A dedicated student balancing work and school, Angel earned her CNA certification and now works as a personal care worker. She plans to attend Milwaukee Area Technical College to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), leading by example through perseverance and service.
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Marianna Taylor (Brown Deer High School) - As Milwaukee County Youth Commission Co-Chair and a Wisconsin DECA officer, Marianna embraces leadership through authenticity. Committed to Yale University, she will study Econometrics, Quantitative Economics, and Art, inspiring others by showing that growth comes from both success and challenges.
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Corbeau Martin-Caldwell (Rufus King High School) - Passionate about community and advocacy, Corbeau has dedicated hundreds of hours to service and activism. With a 4.0 GPA and perfect ACT score, he will attend the University of Chicago, double majoring in Public Policy and Spanish, with plans for law school.
Click the names above to read their essays.
“Rosa Parks’ legacy is a reminder of the power of individual courage and collective action for justice,” said Donna Brown-Martin, Director of the Milwaukee County Department of Transportation. “These young leaders have exemplified those values, and I’m excited to see their continued impact on their communities.”
The winners are being recognized on Tuesday, February 4th, Rosa Parks’ birthday and Transit Equity Day. Transit Equity Day honors the vital role of public transit in advancing civil rights and promoting equitable access to resources for all. The date was chosen in tribute to Rosa Parks’ stand against racial segregation on public buses, which sparked the Montgomery Bus Boycott and led to significant changes in transportation policy.
MCTS honors Rosa Parks annually on December 1st, the anniversary of her arrest, by reserving a seat on every bus in its fleet. Each reserved seat includes a red rose and a placard commemorating her courageous stand for civil rights.