The Encinitas Chamber of Commerce celebrated four high school seniors from the San Dieguito Union High School District at its November Rising Star of the Month Breakfast, held Wednesday, Nov. 5 at MiraCosta College’s San Elijo campus.
Now in its fourth year, the Rising Star program recognizes local seniors who demonstrate character, integrity, leadership and perseverance — qualities that make them role models in their schools and community. Since the program began, 94 students have been honored, with 17 scholarships awarded. Honorees are recognized monthly throughout the school year, with all Rising Stars invited to apply for scholarships that will be awarded at the chamber’s Salute to Education event in May 2026.
“At the Chamber, we take great pride in our commitment to education and the next generation of leaders,” said Carol Knight, CEO of the Encinitas Chamber of Commerce. “The Rising Star program is one of my favorite initiatives, because it recognizes outstanding students who show not only academic excellence, but also character, leadership, and community spirit.”
November 2025 Rising Star Honorees
Roxton Tscherne: San Dieguito Academy
“Roxton is a dynamic and thoughtful creative force within our Visual Arts and Culinary Arts Departments,” Assistant Principal Brianna Castellanos said. “An innovator and community-builder, Roxton has demonstrated remarkable initiative as a sophomore by proactively approaching us to spearhead an exhibit in our student gallery for the following year. This year in the Culinary Arts, Roxton has taken the lead as the go-to Sous Chef. In addition to supporting other students interested in Culinary Arts, Roxton leads the Sous Corner Cafe, where he manages staff, prepares food, monitors sales, and makes adjustments to meet the challenging demands of student customers. His unwavering ambition is what makes this program successful. At SDA, we are grateful for Roxton and the positive impact he has made on our students, teachers, staff and administration.”
Victor Lopez Funez: La Costa Canyon High School
“Victor is a young man of stellar character, always striving to be his best self, whether accepting the challenge of academics or leading as a role model to his peers,” Assistant Principal Brenda Robinette said. “Victor has worked hard to be where he is today, and his outward display of integrity and character has never faltered. His commitment to his education and personal growth will continue to inspire all of those around him, far beyond high school. Victor truly embodies the Maverick mindset and we are proud to honor him today.”
Caroline Zhang: Torrey Pines High School
“Caroline Zhang is an outstanding TPHS community member,” Assistant Principal Angie Guerrero said. “She is the acting chair of the TPHS School Site Council and has started three official clubs on campus: the Love Relay Challenge, the Kantian Economists Club, and the Crypto Trading Club, as well as an unofficial peer tutoring mentor to students newly arrived to our school and the country. Caroline demonstrates consistent servant leadership qualities. She is also an athlete, and plays on the TP basketball team. On top of all of her extracurricular activities, she is an exceptional student who aspires toward excellence in all she does. We are grateful to have a scholar, an athlete and a leader as kind, compassionate and committed as Caroline. She demonstrates every quality of a Rising Star, and then some.”
Ahana Singh: Canyon Crest Academy
“Ahana exemplifies CCA’s values of being creative, confident, and accepting,” Assistant Principal Kathryn Freeman said. “As President of PALs, she leads initiatives that strengthen campus connection and promote student well-being, including Jumpstart, Community Day, and mental health outreach. A dedicated student-athlete, Ahana also leads by example on the varsity tennis team, now competing in CIF playoffs. Her compassion, leadership, and innovative spirit make her a true Rising Star.”
The chamber partnered with MiraCosta College’s San Elijo campus again this school year who is host and sponsor of the monthly breakfasts. Families, school officials, elected representatives and community leaders joined the chamber in applauding these students’ achievements.
For more information on the Rising Star program or to learn how you can support student scholarships, visit encinitaschamber.com/events/rising-star.
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