Angela Chen of Hampton High School receives Gates Scholarship

Congratulations to Angela Chen of Hampton High School who has been named a Gates Scholar and member of The Gates Scholarship Class of 2026. The Gates Scholarship (TGS) is a highly selective, last-dollar scholarship for outstanding, minority, high school seniors from low-income households. Each year, the scholarship is awarded to exceptional student leaders, with the intent of helping them realize their maximum potential.

As one of 750 Scholars chosen from a pool of over 61,000 applicants from across the nation, Angela now belongs to an elite group of young leaders—all of whom represent the very pinnacle of academic achievement, service, and commitment.

 
In addition to funding her undergraduate education, The Gates Scholarship will help Angela continue to hone her leadership skills, prepare for professional life, and start building an enduring network of fellow Scholars and other distinguished individuals. She will also have access to a range of support services, including mentoring, leadership development, wellness, career guidance, internship and job opportunities, and more.

Angela is the valedictorian of her class - an exceptional student with a 4.59 GPA and a strong commitment to leadership, academics, and service. She serves as chair of the Hampton Youth Commission and president of the Science National Honor Society, while also participating in varsity girls soccer, multiple honor societies, and the Virginia Space Coast Scholars Summer Academy. Angela volunteers throughout the community and has demonstrated a passion for leadership through service, communication, and academic excellence.

She plans to attend either University of Virginia or University of Michigan (waitlisted) and major in biomedical engineering. After college she plans to pursue a master’s degree.

“Congratulations to Angela, on being selected as a Gates Scholar for the Class of 2026! This incredible achievement reflects not only her dedication and perseverance, but also the bright future that lies ahead of her,” said HHS executive principal Haneef Majied. “At Hampton High School, our theme is ‘The Legacy of Excellence Continues,’ and Angela is a true example of that legacy in action. Her accomplishments continue to inspire our school community and show what is possible through determination, character, and academic excellence. We are extremely proud of Angela and cannot wait to see the impact she will make in the future. Keep striving, keep leading, and keep making history!”