WHITTIER – Santa Fe High School senior Madison Kelly will pursue her dream of studying aquatic mammals and ecosystems at UC San Diego – on her way to a career as a marine biologist – with the help of a $20,000 Destiny Scholarship, awarded annually by the City of Santa Fe Springs Chamber of Commerce.

Kelly – recognized as an exceptional graduating senior by the chamber – has completed six Advanced Placement classes, five Honors classes, is listed as one of Santa Fe’s Top 100 students and has competed on Santa Fe’s swim and water polo teams. Kelly is also a public programs docent for the Ocean Institute of Dana Point.

“This is an amazing honor and receiving the Destiny Scholarship is an incredible gift,” Kelly said. “Thank you to all the wonderful people who have helped shape me into who I am today. I am so excited to continue my education and keep moving forward with the support of family, friends and the City of Santa Fe Springs. Thank you to the community. I love our city!”

Kelly has been a volunteer at the Ocean Institute since 2019, leading visitors on tours and answering their questions about ocean life. Her work at the institute has focused her attention on the devastating effects of climate change on the earth’s environment.

“Whether my guest is a kindergarten student or a senior citizen, seeing their amazed faces during a tour is a reward all by itself,” Kelly said. “Because of climate change, there needs to be a bigger emphasis on what is happening to the planet and how that is affecting our oceans. I want to do my part to educate the public and maybe be able to swim with some dolphins along the way.”

Kelly is active in Santa Fe club life, serving as president of the school’s Youth Alive club for three years. She is a member of the Art and Fashion Club, Link Crew, theater, and the Comedy Sportz improv group, and also serves as an academic mentor.

“Madison is an excellent student, campus leader and role model. I am absolutely thrilled to see her be recognized as a Destiny scholar,” Santa Fe Principal Craig Campbell said. “Madison is very passionate about her studies and wants to make the world a better place for everyone. She is a true Chieftain and I wish her the best in her future.”

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WUHSD_KELLY1: Santa Fe High School senior Madison Kelly is the recipient of a $20,000 Destiny scholarship from the City of Santa Fe Springs Chamber of Commerce. Kelly plans to attend UC San Diego and pursue a career as a marine biologist.