Kathy Duran Reyes

Kathy Duran Reyes of Grand Rapids, MI, is a young woman with an inspiring journey of transformation, resilience, and ambition. Her story exemplifies the power of perseverance and the importance of recognizing hidden potential. Once convinced she wasn’t good at school, Kathy’s self-discovery in her junior year revealed a passion for mathematics and a drive to excel. "I used to think I wasn’t smart. I’ve since learned that was never true—I just didn’t know my hidden talents,” she shares. “This scholarship shows me that hard work pays off, and everything is possible.”

Kathy’s journey hasn’t been without challenges. In 2022, her mother’s attempt to gain U.S. citizenship resulted in separation when her application was denied, leaving Kathy without her mother’s daily presence. This hardship was a turning point. Despite the emotional toll, Kathy channeled her pain into motivation, rising from failing grades to academic success. “I knew I had to make both myself and my mami proud by continuing my education and succeeding,” she reflects.

Now a senior, Kathy dreams of becoming an aerospace engineer or mathematical physicist, with aspirations to work for NASA. She aims to contribute to space exploration and inspire others, particularly Hispanic students, to pursue STEM careers. “I want to encourage my community to keep going. We are capable of anything and everything. The sky is not the limit,” she declares.

Kathy’s teacher, James Rex, praises her as “one of the grittiest students I have ever worked with,” highlighting her unmatched work ethic and compassion for others. Beyond academics, Kathy excels as captain of her cheer team, a leader in the Godwin Heights G-Club, and a volunteer for school events. She even balances two part-time jobs while maintaining high academic standards.

Receiving the Math Medic Foundation Scholarship affirms Kathy’s belief in her potential and her commitment to inspiring the next generation of STEM leaders. By supporting the Giving Tuesday campaign, you can help students like Kathy achieve their dreams and make a lasting impact. Kathy’s journey reminds us that, with determination and support, the sky truly is not the limit.

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Math Medic Foundation (MMF) has selected 5 deserving students to help send to college! The Foundation received many applications and these 5 stood out for their determination, work ethic, and desire to make an impact on the world. These students will pursue mathematics and help balance the scales in a field that is still largely homogeneous. But they need our help - each of their families has experienced hardship and will not be able to afford college without taking on substantial student loans. We at MMF have committed a base scholarship of $2,000 to each student, but we want to do more. Here is where you come in!

We’re going to split all proceeds from this campaign equally among these 5 students! If we raise $10,000, their scholarship will increase from $2,000 to $4,000 each. If we raise $20,000, their scholarship will increase to $6,000, and so on. Help us give these students a truly life-altering award!  

Peer-to-Peer Fundraising Component:  You also have the option to fundraise by sending a unique link to your friends and family. Fundraisers who raise $150 OR MORE from now until Giving Tuesday (12/3/24) will receive a 10 oz stackable YETI mug. *Gifts will be sent out in January 2025*

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Please join Math Medic Foundation in our mission to improve math outcomes for all. You can contact us to get involved or donate here.

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12/03/2024