Each year, Lincoln Foundation honors a Whitney M. Young Scholar with the prestigious Dr. Samuel Robinson Award of Excellence, recognizing outstanding commitment to the college readiness program. The award is named in honor of Dr. Samuel Robinson, President Emeritus, who created the Whitney M. Young Scholars Program in 1990. Scholars earn points based on academic performance, attendance, and active engagement. The senior scholar with the highest points earned receives this prestigious award.

Lincoln Foundation and Baird are pleased to present Juan Hernandez Trjo with the 2025 Dr. Samuel Robinson Award of Excellence! In addition, he will receive the Educational Opportunity Scholarship, which includes a $5,000 annually renewable scholarship totalling $20,000. Juan may also receive up to $2,500 each year to cover the cost of computers, technology, and other supplies. Finally, the Educational Opportunity Scholarship will award Juan up to $10,000 for study abroad. 

Juan has proven to be a driven and accomplished student at Butler Traditional High School, excelling academically and as a leader in various extracurricular activities. A dedicated member of the Whitney M. Young Scholars Program since 7th grade, Juan is committed to academic excellence, leadership, and personal growth. He plans to earn a nursing degree at the University of Louisville.