SHS Dezmond Martinez Wins Big, Awarded Keith Brandsma Scholarship to Attend Perry Technical Institute

The Sunnyside community is celebrating the remarkable achievements of Dezmond Martinez, who has been awarded the prestigious Keith Brandsma Scholarship to pursue his dream of becoming an electrician at Perry Technical Institute.

Dezmund will attend Perry Institute with the goal to become a certified Electrician.

Dezmond, son of Amy and Adrian Martinez, is a 2026 graduate whose journey has been marked by resilience, leadership, and a commitment to giving back. He credits his parents and their professional careers as his inspiration, stating, “My future goal is to become an electrician and establish myself to be financially stable where I can help others and have a positive impact in the community I serve.”

Despite facing significant family challenges—including unforeseen medical circumstances and housing instability—Dezmond’s determination never wavered. “In facing these hardships, I have realized that it takes great courage to be vulnerable to seek scholarship assistance,” he wrote in his application. “This scholarship will help me achieve my goals and ease some of the financial burden of out-of-pocket costs for tuition, transportation, and books.”

“My future goal is to become an electrician and establish myself to be financially stable where I can help others and have a positive impact in the community I serve.”

Dezmond’s academic and athletic accomplishments are impressive. He maintained a solid 3.09 GPA, received recognition as Student of the Month at SHS, and earned All-State and Iron Man honors in wrestling. He also contributed to the local community, working with the Washington Department of Ecology Youth Corps and advocating for environmental and cultural awareness.

A leader both in and out of the classroom, Dezmond guided peers at YV-Tech, encouraged open communication and respect, and inspired others through perseverance. He embodies the growth mindset he values so highly, quoting, “Success starts with every challenge, not from the comfort zone.”

Dezmond receives a "Ceremonious Big Check" from Alumni Board Members Hank Stamschror (left) and Craig Schilperoort (right).

Dezmond expressed his gratitude, saying, “I want to express my sincere thanks to your committee for selecting me as a candidate for this scholarship. This opportunity means so much to me and will help cover my financial costs to attend Perry Institute.”

The Sunnyside community is proud to support Dezmond as he takes the next step in his educational journey, confident he will continue to make a positive impact wherever he goes.

About The Brandsma Family Scholarship

The Brandsma Family Scholarship is in honor of Keith Brandsma.. Keith was a 1973 graduate of Sunnyside High School who passed away after battling a 2-year fight with cancer. Keith retired from the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) and worked at the Browns Ferry Nuclear Power Plant in Athens, Alabama, specializing in instrumental and nuclear controls. Keith graduated from The Perry Institute in 1975, and the selective recipient must also be attending The Perry Institute. Read more about Mr. Brandsma HERE.

Created June 30, 2026