By Lookout Staff
July 15, 2026 -- The Santa Monica Police Activities League (PAL) last week awarded more than $31,000 in scholarships to ten high school juniors and graduating seniors, most of them from the Pico Neighborhood.
The awards were presented during the annual Chris Carrey PAL Education Fund Recognition Dinner Thursday to students "who demonstrated financial need, academic commitment, and a dedication to pursuing higher education."
This year's scholarship recipients are Hawene Alemayehu, Hiroshy Aguilar Aquino, Adrian Barajas, Branden Banks, Julian Gonzalez-Alfaro, Jasmin Morales, Gabriela Paniagua, Jose Perez, Kaleb Seyum and Ricardo Torres.
They will continue their education at institutions including California State University, Fullerton; California State University, Long Beach; Santa Monica College, and other colleges and trade schools.
Eight of the ten recipients of the scholarships -- which ranged from $1,500 to $6,000 -- live in the Pico Neighborhood, "underscoring PAL's continued commitment to supporting youth and families in one of the city's most historically underserved communities," PAL officials said.
"The Chris Carrey PAL Education Fund continues to change lives by giving our young people the opportunity to pursue their educational dreams," said PAL Director Eula Fritz.
"These scholarships represent far more than financial assistance -- they reflect the belief our community has in these students, their potential, and the bright futures that lie ahead.
"We are deeply grateful to our donors, volunteers, and supporters whose generosity makes these opportunities possible year after year," Frits said.
Since the scholarship program was established in 2002, PAL has awarded more than $475,000 in educational scholarships, "helping reduce financial barriers for local students and their families," PAL officials said.
"Many recipients are the first in their families to attend college, making these scholarships an important investment in educational opportunity, economic mobility, and the future of the Santa Monica community."
The Chris Carrey PAL Education Fund was established through a generous gift from Ed Simmons and Standard Parking, together with Neil and Karen Carrey, in memory of their son Chris Carrey.
Since 2002, the fund has provided scholarships for post-secondary education expenses to PAL members who meet academic and financial criteria, complete a competitive application process, and are selected by the Chris Carrey PAL Education Fund Committee.