Senior Malika Haro has earned a $10,000 college scholarship from First Tee - Colorado Rocky Mountains, one of just three awarded annually to students who exemplify the program's values of achievement, service, and character. At SMA, we work to develop powerful agents of change, and Malika is a living example of that mission in action.

First Tee uses the game of golf to educate and inspire young people academically, socially, and physically, and Malika has been part of it since childhood. Her résumé speaks to a young woman who leads in every direction at once. She competes on the SMA Varsity Golf Team, serving as captain for the past two years, and she represented SMA at the state championship for the past three years. Malika competes on the SMA Swim & Dive Team and has served as captain for the past two years. She is also on the First Tee Youth Leadership Council and was twice selected for the LPGA Leadership Academy, one of just 40 girls chosen each year nationally.

Her community impact extends well beyond the athletic field. Through First Tee, Malika volunteers at Title I elementary schools and teaches golf to children in foster care and community programs. She also launched openfairwaysdenver.com, a resource connecting Denver residents with free and discounted golf opportunities, reflecting both her love for the game and her commitment to making it accessible.

Malika shares, "First Tee has shown me that one lesson, one swing, and one supportive community can change a life. It's where I found my voice, learned how to lead, and discovered the joy of helping others do the same."

Phil Gentry, Director of College Counseling/Dean of Academic Affairs, and Sam Solomon, SMA Golf Coach, attended the awards ceremony to support Malika as she received this special recognition.