TITO'S WAY

Scholarship

In honor of CPT Lyone “Tito” Velez Segarra, you can donate towards funding “Tito’s Way,” a non-profit scholarship fund facilitated through Strive Now, a West Point classmate’s foundation, that will provide opportunities to young, up-and-coming high school-aged leaders in the El Paso area.

In 2023, we had one recipient of the $1000 scholarship, and in 2024, two recipients were awarded $1000 scholarships. This 2025, one recipient will be awarded $2000. The application is open to all El Paso County 12th grade students.

Tito had a passion for self-improvement and was known for his high integrity and character. We are honored to celebrate his name in this way, Tito’s Way.

Donate Here

For High School Seniors

For High School Seniors & College Students

Tito's Way Scholarship Committee

Destiny Velez

Committee Member

Holds a Bachelor of Science in Information Systems from the University of Texas at Arlington. She’s a Data Engineer, a skilled drummer, and a NCAA Division I bowling champion. Destiny leads DOTA Valkyries, supporting women in gaming, and contributes to Strive Now for Tito’s Way Scholarship Fund in honor of her late brother Lyone Velez.

Jorge Rodriguez Martinez

Committee Member

He is a native of Puerto Rico, and he shared that Boricua bond with Tito from the go at West Point. They learned from and supported each other throughout that often dark experience, and he carries Tito’s reverence for Jesus Christ’s new commandment: “love one another.” He is humbled to be a part of this effort to make Tito’s Way an example for future generations.

Tyler Croft

Committee Member

Hard work, discipline, and integrity — these three values were embraced by Tito and ultimately passed on to Tyler. He met Tito in 2012 during his first year at West Point and maintained a close relationship with him throughout their time together at school and in El Paso. He is grateful to share in keeping his memory alive for all-time, through this scholarship.

Braetana Hammontree

Committee President

As the president of this committee, she is thankful to help keep Tito’s memory and legacy alive for years to come by helping the youth of El Paso strive and obtain their next goal. Tito and Braetana met at West Point, and she is thankful she gets to be part of keeping him alive through every applicant selected to carry his legacy with the acceptance of the Tito’s Way Scholarship.

Tiffany Castro

Committee Member

Earned her Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from the University of Texas at El Paso. She had the privilege of meeting Tito through her husband, Israel, who attended West Point with Tito. This scholarship was initiated to honor Tito’s legacy and to provide deserving individuals with the opportunity to pursue their dreams, reflecting the values that Strive Now and Tito cherished.

Have Questions?

If you need support with eligibility, essays, or strengthening your application, our team is happy to help review drafts and guide you through the process.

Where can I apply?

You can find the application on Going Merry. Click here

What are the requirements?

To be eligible, you need to be a High School student in the Class of 2025. Have a 3.00 GPA or higher, have two letters of recommendation, transcript, and have at least 50 hours of community service.