Congratulations Senior Class of 2023

Congratulations, Seniors!

As the co-owner of Health Insurance and Retirement Advocates, I'm not used to my audience being high school seniors. This year, as a Rotarian, I had the honor of sitting on the college scholarship committee.

We interviewed numerous students from all the high schools in Lake County – and it was such an uplifting experience! It was inspiring to meet so many young adults who have achieved academic excellence, have donated hundreds of hours to serving their communities and have developed a roadmap to their vision of success – all while battling their various challenges. Their dedication and determination has renewed my hope for the future!

I was so moved by the experience that I wanted to offer an additional scholarship directly from HIRA. The $2000 HIRA Scholarship was awarded to Anai Hilerio, a young lady who I feel embodies the “American Dream” – which is still alive and well!

Ms. Hilario graduates this year from Mount Dora High School, which also happens to be the school at which I was selected to present the Rotarian awards last week. I feel so lucky that I was able to present scholarships on behalf of the Golden Triangle Rotary Club and HIRA to such deserving young adults. This experience was more rewarding for me than it was for the students, of that I am certain.

Have faith in our young adults and support them however you can. I think they are going to make us proud. To the class of 2023, from all of us at HIRA, we wish you much success and happiness!

Julie Graham

HIRA co-founder