TACOMA, Wash. – The University of Puget Sound is proud to announce Oliver Wright of Granada Hills, California, and Maya Gomez of Rocklin, California, as the recipients of the prestigious Lillis Scholarship, one of the university's most distinguished honors for incoming students.
The Lillis Scholarship, generously funded by Gwendolyn H. Lillis P’05 and Charles M. Lillis P’05 through The Lillis Foundation, recognizes academic excellence, intellectual independence, and a commitment to pursuing excellence throughout a student's educational journey. This scholarship covers tuition, fees, and room and board for up to four years at Puget Sound.
Oliver Wright ’27 (He/Him) | Granada Hills, CA
Oliver Wright ’27 holds dual citizenship in the United States and the United Kingdom. He has an impressive track record of academic achievements, including being recognized as an AP Scholar with Distinction. Wright's passion for diplomacy and international relations led him to excel as the Model United Nations Administrative and Budgetary 5th Committee Outstanding Delegate.
Wright's life has been full of community involvement and a love of music. He interned for Senator Robert Hertzberg's Office and volunteered at the San Fernando Valley Drive-Thru Pride Parade. Additionally, he has a deep passion for music and is a talented violinist. He hopes to pursue both classical and jazz music and leave his mark on every note he plays.
At Puget Sound, Wright looks forward to furthering his academic pursuits and continuing his involvement in music and community engagement. He is an exceptional candidate for the Lillis Scholars Program due to his strong leadership skills and unwavering commitment to creating a positive impact.
Maya Gomez ’27 (She/Her) | Rocklin, CA
Maya Gomez ’27 is a socially conscious individual dedicated to destigmatizing mental health issues among students. She founded Mind Out Loud, a statewide program that includes podcasts and manages a student team committed to promoting mental wellness.
Gomez is also a passionate writer, serving as a copy editor and staff writer for Whitney High School Student Media. She has also made a lasting impact in her community by helping launch a COVID-safe summer camp for local youth and working as a tutor. Her commitment to gender equality is evident through her role as co-president and founder of the Whitney High School Feminist Student Union.
At Puget Sound, Gomez plans to double major in English and philosophy. She plans to participate in literary clubs and take advantage of outdoor opportunities, such as the rock climbing and kayak clubs.
About the Lillis Scholars Program
The Lillis Scholars Program, established in 2007, is a testament to the generosity of Gwendolyn and Charles Lillis, who value academic excellence and intellectual independence. Gwen Lillis is chair of The Lillis Foundation and a trustee of Puget Sound, while Charles Lillis is a former chair and chief executive of MediaOne Group and a founding partner of LoneTree Capital Management. The Lillises are the parents of Puget Sound alumna Jessica Baker Isaacs ’05. Each year, two Lillis Scholars are selected from the incoming first-year class.
For information about eligibility for the Lillis Scholars Program, please contact the Office of Admission at 253.879.3211 or visit www.pugetsound.edu.
