Future Students

The Sabrina Salazar Story

Sabrina Salazar could have been written off as a lost cause, but with the Foundation’s contributions she was able to find her academic footing. The many individuals who have donated over the years all have a hand in this triumphant turnaround.

At an age when most young teens are building an educational foundation for success, Sabrina Salazar was just looking to survive. Her mother battled addiction, and for three long years, Sabrina had no permanent roof over her head. Sometimes she’d luck out, getting to crash at the homes of family members or friends. Other nights she was not so lucky, and slept in public parks. At the age of 14, Sabrina had her first child. Having to help support a family meant dropping out of school in the 7th grade. It was not — to say the least — an auspicious start. Her future certainly seemed filled with peril, not promise. On the other hand, Sabrina’s innate intelligence, and her steadfast dream to pursue an education hinted at a more positive outcome. And Crafton Hills College would become her safety net and launching pad.

As soon as she had established stability for her children, she revisited her educational goals. She earned her high school diploma in June 2022 and enrolled at Crafton Hills College the following month. There, she thrived, becoming an honor roll student, receiving the Dr. Carla Thornton Memorial Scholarship, and graduating with a 3.9 GPA.

Sabrina’s turnaround is the stuff Hollywood endings are made of. Today, she is a student at the University of California Riverside, and a prestigious Regents Scholar --- an honor reserved for top students in the UC system. In addition to her studies, Sabrina is currently employed by the Redlands School District, where she is setting the perfect example of giving back by helping junior high students with behavioral issues and learning disabilities.

Sabrina’s story is a testament to three powerful forces: her own determination, the support of Crafton Hills College, and the kindness of strangers. Each year, thousands of generous individuals—many of them Crafton alumni—make it possible for students like Sabrina to build a better future. Every dollar, from $5 to $5,000, raises the odds that stories of struggle become stories of triumph.