The Rob Benzon / Dan Ferbal Foundation (RBDFF) is proud to have awarded three scholarships through the annual PFLAG Scholarship Awards to three deserving LGBTQ+ students pursuing higher education.
The Rob Benzon Memorial Scholarship: Dylan Baker
Dylan is a history major with an LGBTQ+ studies minor at San Diego State University. While attending Cuesta College, they founded and served as the first president of the Cuesta Pride Club. Dylan has been deeply involved in preserving and uplifting LGBTQ+ history in California through their work with the Central Coast Queer Archive Project. Their academic interests center on North American, Middle Eastern, and Queer history, with a focus on their intersections.
Dylan will graduate with their B.A. in Fall 2025 and plans to pursue a master’s degree in history or public policy, with the long-term goal of teaching and contributing to local politics.
Daniel J. Ferbal Memorial Scholarship: Jorge Chavez Diaz De Leon
Jorge is a proud first-generation college student at San Diego State University, majoring in Social Work with a minor in Spanish. As a member of the LGBTQ+ community and a participant in the Educational Opportunity Program (EOP), which supports first-generation and low-income students, Jorge is committed to bridging cultural gaps and fostering inclusive spaces.
“This scholarship makes me feel heard, seen, and noticed knowing we are never alone and we can always fight for what we want for our future. My goal is to use my education to make a positive impact in my community, empower others, and promote social justice. I am passionate about working with diverse populations and hope to contribute to meaningful change in society.”
Andy Thomas Memorial Scholarship: Audrey Ritz
Audrey will pursue a degree in Theater at California State University, Fullerton, in Fall 2025. A lifelong thespian, she is committed to building a career on stage, both as a working actor and as a theater educator who inspires young performers. Audrey also dreams of one day creating a program that funds arts education and provides scholarships to students who share her passion for the arts.
Grants awarded in June 2025