Andres 'Dre' Robles- Scholarship Awardee

Andres ‘Dre’ Robles comes to Aquinas from Moreno Valley, a 35-minute commute every day. That is a special commitment.

‘Dre’ is the oldest of 4 siblings, 2 brothers and a sister.

Dre credits his immediate and extended family (aunts uncles) for his motivation, perseverance, faith and character.

Among ‘Dre’s Aquinas activities, he is the quarterback on Aquinas’ football team. He quarterbacked the 2021-2022 Championship Football Team. (CIF Champs and California State runner-up), maintains a 4.0 GPA, enjoys singing and playing the guitar, likes horseback riding, and the outdoors.

‘Dre’s college choices are open, either an Ivy League School or a U. of California school. ‘Dre’ would like to play college football at a D-1 or D-2 level. For a career, he would like to go into the medical field, either as family medicine practitioner or in pediatric medicine. His future plans also include having a family, being a man of God, helping others in his community, and being a positive influence for his family and friends.

Abby Barrows - Scholarship Awardee

First off, I’d like to thank the LaRiviere Society for this prestigious award. I feel very fortunate as there are so many other qualified students for this award.

Some influences and background information about me are I live in Yucaipa with my younger brother and my parents. Both of my parents are in the teaching profession. They naturally, have been the primary influence in my life. My teachers and friends at Aquinas have also been a positive influence with challenging classes and thought-provoking discussions that have inspired critical thought.

In my free time, I enjoy reading, movies, outside activities, nature, camping with my family, Disneyland and music.

For my career goals, I think I will follow my parent’s example and become a teacher. I enjoy learning and helping children learn. I’ve volunteered as a 3rd grade Teacher’s helper. It was very rewarding experience. The LaRiviere Scholarship and Aquinas have and will help me reach my goal.

Diego Guerrero - Scholarship Awardee

Hi - My name is Diego Guerrero. I’m a Senior at Aquinas High School and honored to be a La Riviere Scholar for 2022~2023.

A little history about my background. My Grandparents were immigrants when they came to America. They, along with my parents, worked hard to provide a better life for me and my two sisters. It provided us with a good home and a Catholic education. They have influenced me to work hard, persevere and instilled in me a priority in Faith in God and being a good Catholic.

My favorite classes are English and chemistry. COVID made schoolwork very challenging last year. My hobbies and interests are sports and volunteering. I do enjoy every racquet sport and plan to continue in college. I volunteer with the Red Cross and lead kids through summer camps. It’s very rewarding. I enjoy hanging out with my old friends that I have known since kindergarten. Even though we don’t go to the same school, our bond remains strong.

I have been selected to attend 2 military academies - the Air Force Academy and US Naval Academy. I have been training to become more physically fit as both academies require it for admission. After my military service, I would like to fly as a commercial airline pilot.

I cherish my grandparents, parents, and my teachers at Aquinas for their positive impact they have on me.

Kristin Cervantes - Scholarship Awardee

Hi, I’m Kristin Ann Cervantes. I’m a Junior at Aquinas High School in San Bernardino. I’m honored to be named a Father Earl LaRiviere Scholar for 2022 – 2023.

There are many influences that have brought me to this stage in my life. First and foremost are my parents. My father has taught me the value of work through owning his own business. My mother has had a career in education as a teacher, principal, and now an educational district administrator. Their sacrifice and encouragement have given me a solid foundation.

My teachers at Aquinas have also influenced and shaped my character and love of learning. Mrs. Forbush, my English teacher, has catalyzed my appreciation and love for writing and reading… And how literature, in all its forms, relates to my understanding of the modern world. Sister Cecelia Tran helped me through one of my toughest subjects, Honors Algebra II. She taught me patience and persistence in learning difficult concepts.

In considering graduation and my future, I am currently exploring an educational career, particularly in the Speech Language and Hearing field. I want to help other people in a challenging field.

Ms Rebecca Forbush - Excellence in Teaching Award

Ms Rebecca Forbush has a Masters in Education and 29 years of teaching experience. 2022 was her 10th year teaching English and English Literature at Aquinas.

Ms Forbush said “My students motivate me to be the best teacher I can as I guide them on their educational and spiritual journey. Their thirst for knowledge and their inquisitive minds never ceases to amaze me. Whether they are analyzing text, composing an essay, or developing their faith, they strive to be lifelong learners. I always tell them that even as an educator, I am constantly learning and growing, as well. I value the things we have discovered together through discussions, research, and collaboration."

She added, "there is no other occupation that I feel is as rewarding and fulfilling as that of a Catholic schoolteacher, and I thank God for leading me here.”