Bellevue University, United Black Players, USL Announce Scholarship Recipient, Xiolani Vargas

TAMPA, Fla. – In collaboration with United Black Players and Colorado UpLift, the United Soccer League today announced Xiolani (pronunciation: SEE-ow-LAN-ee) Vargas had been selected as the second recipient of a scholarship to Bellevue University, the Official Education Partner of the USL.

As part of the multi-year partnership between the USL and Bellevue University, the two organizations worked with the United Black Players and Denver-based Colorado UpLift to identify scholarship candidates through non-profit organizations that benefit minority youth.

From that process, Vargas was selected, with her goal to pursue a career in the medical field.

“Obtaining a college education means the world to me, because it will help me accomplish my dreams to serve youth in my community,” said Vargas. “First and foremost, I want to continue serving as a teacher and mentor to others. Having the opportunity to offer that as a full-time staff member at Colorado UpLift would be amazing. Beyond that, my long-term aim is to become an ultrasound technician.”

Raised in a single-parent family, Vargas has shown a willingness to serve her community and a caring and compassionate nature that has helped her succeed despite obstacles that have come her way. In the Colorado UpLift program, she has shown leadership and the ability to impact those she works with every day, becoming a tremendous example that matches the program’s ideals and broader mission.

“Xiolani has shown an aspiring personality to move toward what it is she wants with a consistent character that models her why,” said Colorado UpLift’s Advanced Leadership Director Ross Curington. “At Colorado UpLift, we believe no matter how tough things get, students have the power to live above and beyond their constraints in ways that help students like Xiolani fulfill a greater purpose.

“We couldn’t be prouder of Xiolani and believe she will continue to make an impact in all the lives she touches.”

Vargas is the second recipient of the annual scholarship created by the USL, Bellevue University and United Black Players.