PBA Awards Gabrielino High Student $5,000 Scholarship
On May 28, the Pasadena Bar Association (PBA) hosted its annual Law Day at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium. The luncheon event included the final round of the PBA’s 5th annual Speech Scholarship Competition, where two high school student finalists competed in a speech/debate judged by approximately 150 lawyers and dignitaries, including this year’s honorary guest Congressman Adam Schiff.
The two finalists Kelsea Jeon, a junior from Arcadia High School and returning champion from 2014, and Alex Ye, a senior at Gabrielino High School competed head-to-head, for a chance to win a $5,000 scholarship, presented by the Pasadena Bar Association. Alex Ye took first place for his speech on “Is the continued use of drones beneficial?” Runner up Kelsea Jeon will take home a $2,000 scholarship for her debate on “Should undocumented aliens have legal rights?”
The goal of the PBA’s Speech Scholarship Contest has always been to promote speech and debate, and motivate excelling high school students to keep pushing forward with their education goals. The contest gives local students a platform to showcase their speech and debate qualities in front of some of the top lawyers and dignitaries from the San Gabriel community. The finalists will also have an opportunity to interview for internships with one of the PBA’s member law firms, and continue to build their skills through mentor programs.