Ninety-six Southern Nevada students are recipients of this year’s Project 150 scholarships, proudly supported by Nevada National Security Sites (NNSS). Project 150 provides resources to homeless, displaced and disadvantaged Southern Nevada students and empowers them to pursue higher education.
A Project 150 partner for the past three years, the NNSS provided $5,000 in scholarship and $1,000 in gift card funding for the 96 awardees, 78 of whom are first-generation college students in their families. Students were recognized for their achievements during a June 20 scholarship award ceremony in Las Vegas. In attendance was Manuel Morales-Marroquin, a University of Nevada, Reno (UNR), student and Project 150 scholarship recipient who is interning with the NNSS Emergency Communications Network (ECN) while pursuing his degree in computer science and engineering.
“Project 150 has given me a fighting chance at a future I once thought was out of reach, standing by me every step of the way through college,” he said. “An organization like this is truly special. Investing in local organizations like Project 150 means supporting individuals who, against all odds, are making their dreams possible. This investment isn’t just about believing in Project 150’s goals, it’s about empowering people who have overcome significant challenges to pursue education.”
Morales-Marroquin was first introduced to the NNSS two years ago through Project 150 and NNSS volunteer events, then learned about NNSS Student Programs through UNR. He joined the ECN team last year, aligning his STEM studies with the NNSS’ national security mission.
“When deciding between a career in the public or private sector, I realized I wanted to be part of something meaningful and impactful,” said Morales-Marroquin. “The work I’ve done over the past few years, being the first in my family to graduate from high school and pursue college, has driven me to pursue a career I can be proud of. I don’t want to work for an organization focused solely on generating profits, instead, I want to contribute to a mission with purpose. The NNSS not only ties deeply with the local community, but also offers the opportunity to contribute to national security, providing a mission with purpose.”
In addition to the scholarship program, NNSS employees have also contributed volunteer hours and donations to the Project 150 Betty’s Boutique, two stores offering clothing, accessories and hygiene products at no cost to local high school students.
“At NNSS, students can align their efforts with their values and dedication to public service, making it an ideal place for those seeking a career in the STEM field where they can take pride in their impactful contributions,” added Morales-Marroquin.
Learn more about NNSS Outreach & Engagement’s year-round community involvement and the Project 150 annual scholarship program.