Outstanding students

The Costa Mesa Chamber of Commerce on Friday recognized 40 high school and college students’ achievements in academics, sports and public service and handed out awards to 22 of them during its 31st Annual Scholarship Recognition Breakfast.

“It’s important to let them know that we recognize the level that very few have achieved,” said Ed Fawcett, president and chief executive officer of the chamber.

Each student was called by name, recognized before the community for his or her excellent academic records, and willingness to apply themselves and set an example. A complete list of winners appeared in Friday’s Daily Pilot and can be found online at www.dailypilot.com

One of the award winners, Christopher Cowie, a student at Back Bay High School, said he wouldn’t let Asperger’s syndrome stand in the way of his success. He has a 3.9 grade-point average. He has plans to study film and photography at Orange Coast College.

“It’s really cool because I usually don’t get a lot of awards because school is kind of hard for me. This meant a lot to me,” Cowie said.

Jose Vilchez-Azcona is respected not only by his peers, but by the OCC staff, who admire his commitment to his studies and volunteerism, said Kate Mueller, dean of students.

Vilchez-Azcona, who by March completed 425 hours of community service, has a 3.8 GPA and plans to study international relations.

Each one of the 22 award winners has a special story to tell, and likely grand futures ahead.

“They’re going to be a great asset to our community,” said Larry Weichman, chairman of the chamber’s board. “I was just very honored to be part of this, I was overwhelmed.”

The award winners each received a $200 scholarship to help them begin their college education or continue with their work, something Weichman said is pivotal to success.

“Without education, you can’t get far in life,” Weichman said, adding that those who succeed without a college degree are few and far between.

The scholarship awards were made possible by sponsors and community members, including the Orange County Market Place, Southern California Edison and South Coast Plaza.