News release
The California Jaycee Foundation has selected Brianna Bonfiglio, a senior at Golden Valley High School, as one of 11 recipients of its 2026 $1,000 scholarship awarded in February.
“The statewide applicant pool was exceptionally strong this year,” Mary Alessandra-Cook, chairperson of the scholarship committee, said in a news release. “We are pleased to award Brianna a $1,000 scholarship from California and recognize her success in our competition.”
Bonfiglio is an accomplished student leader, scholar and community advocate whose four years in Associated Student Body have shaped campus culture at Golden Valley High School, the release said.
With more than 1,000 hours of service, she has held roles including executive vice president, outreach team captain, class president and CLORG (clubs and organizations) liaison, a role in which she supported more than 100 clubs, coordinated major schoolwide events, and strengthened inclusion through multicultural programming, the release said.
She has represented her school at district board meetings, speaking on issues such as teacher pay, student wellness and campus safety, and served as president of the William S. Hart Union High School District Student Communication Council, advocating for equitable resources and improved conditions across 20 schools, the release said.
Bonfiglio is also a top scholar — ranked first in her class with a 4.0 unweighted GPA and a 4.67 weighted GPA — earning AP Scholar with Distinction, National Merit Commended Scholar, and multiple academic awards, according to the release.
She founded Opportunity Knocks, a weekly newsletter connecting students with internships, scholarships and enrichment programs, resulting in several classmates earning awards and opportunities they otherwise might have missed, the release said. She has completed nearly 500 hours of volunteer service, including a 200-hour hospital assignment, a legislative internship with California Assemblywoman Pilar Schiavo, D-Chatsworth, and leadership roles in Assisteens supporting foster youth, low-income students, and developmentally disabled adults.
Bonfiglio has also coached youth volleyball, served as a peer tutor since freshman year, and represented her community at the United Nations International Youth Conference and Los Angeles World Affairs Council events. She plans to study international business at North Carolina State University and later pursue a juris doctor degree to become a lawyer working at the intersection of business, policy and global affairs, the release said.
“The 2026 applicant cadre is an exceptionally skilled group that promises a bright future for California and beyond,” Jim McMahon, president of the nonprofit California Jaycee Foundation, said in the release. “Brianna’s leadership, academic excellence and dedication to service reflect the values we aim to support.”
