Republic FC and the Sacramento Hispanic Chamber of Commerce celebrated Jennifer Contreras as the recipient of the 2026 El Futuro Scholarship on Oct. 10. Photo courtesy of Sacramento Republic FC

SACRAMENTO, CA (MPG) - In front of a sold-out crowd at Heart Health Park on Noche Latina, Republic FC and the Sacramento Hispanic Chamber of Commerce celebrated Jennifer Contreras as the recipient of the 2026 El Futuro Scholarship. A Woodland native, Contreras is a current student at UC Davis majoring in Food Science.

Jennifer’s journey to college hasn’t always been easy, but thanks to her involvement in the in the Educational Talent Search (ETS) program that is designed to prepare low-income, first-generation students for college success, she has found the support and confidence to pursue her goals. “I always had a vision for myself: I wanted to go to college and create a different path,” she wrote in her application.

Giving back and community involvement also play a big role in Jennifer’s story: “I take pride in mentoring, tutoring, and contributing to organizations that inspire students to pursue further education.”  

Now inspired by her own experiences and her desire to pay it forward. “Through this journey, I’ve learned that initiating change often begins with gestures such as giving guidance or recounting personal stories,” she continues. I’ve gained an understanding of the importance of togetherness and the impactful influence mentorship has on molding people’s futures.”

As this year’s El Futuro Scholarship winner, Jennifer will receive a $2,000 academic grant funded by Republic FC and the Sacramento Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. She plans to use the scholarship to help manage the academic costs of her program at UC Davis, while also providing some financial assistance in opportunities to immerse herself in life on campus.