By Kathy Chouteau
West Contra Costa Unified School District (WCCUSD) students Ashton Dinh and Malaya Munar were crowned the king and queen of the 71st Snow Ball Scholarship event Saturday, Dec. 9 at the Richmond Memorial Auditorium.
Dinh, a senior from De Anza High School, and Munar, a senior at Pinole Valley High School, competed against six fellow district students to earn the titles, as well as $2,500 scholarships and the chance to serve as “Student Co-Mayors for a Day” in Richmond in 2024, according to the City Manager’s Report. The winning students also will receive professional headshots.
The annual Snow Ball, created by the City of Richmond and coordinated by the Community Services Department, recognizes exceptional high school students who illustrate academic excellence and civic dedication from throughout the WCCUSD, according to the City’s website.
WCCUSD seniors with a minimum GPA of 3.5 and a history of civic contributions pass through a selection process to be chosen to represent their schools.
The city stated in its report that Dinh stole the spotlight with his infectious personality and a passion for belting out karaoke tunes. “His charisma and talent resonated with the audience and judges alike, securing his reign as the Snow Ball king.”
For her part, Munar captured hearts with her comedic storytelling about her life, according to the report. “Her charm, humor and unique perspective won over the judges, making her the deserving Snow Ball queen.”
Appreciation was extended to the panel of judges who selected the Snow Ball king and queen, as well as the city staff, school trustees and community leaders who collaborated to make the event an unforgettable celebration of talent, scholarship and community, according to the report.
