Gilda Ibarra Lozano's life story is one of resilience, love, and sacrifice — leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire her children and others. Born to Pedro and Maria Ibarra, she was raised in Davao City, Philippines. As the eldest of four siblings, she was taught valuable life lessons by her father, who instilled in her the golden rule, "Do unto others what you would have them do unto you" (Matthew 7:12), and the belief that where there is a will, there is a way. These principles became the bedrock upon which Gilda built her life, serving as the foundation for her values and guiding her actions and decisions.

From an early age, Gilda's parents emphasized the importance of family, perseverance, faith, and love. Pedro, a dedicated educator, served as a teacher for over 20 years before becoming a school district supervisor. Maria, on the other hand, worked as a school counselor. Following in her parents' footsteps, Gilda completed her Bachelor's degree in Education within three years and embarked on a career as a full-time elementary school teacher at the age of 19.

At 24, Gilda married Edward Lozano, and together they raised four children. When their youngest turned one, the family had a chance to immigrate to the United States. Edward was unsure about leaving everything behind and starting over in a place they had never been, but Gilda was deeply committed to giving their children a better life. Her resolve eventually convinced Edward, and in 1972, the couple — along with their children, then ages one to six — left the Philippines to begin a new chapter in the U.S. They arrived with few belongings but a strong sense of purpose and the hope that their sacrifices would create more opportunity for the next generation.  

Upon their arrival, the family settled into a modest two-bedroom apartment in Alameda, California. Edward found employment at the Navy Exchange during weekdays and also worked at an auto body shop on weekends. Meanwhile, Gilda, balancing her roles as a full-time mother and provider, secured a part-time job as a hotel housekeeper on weekdays and worked at a private cleaning service on weekends. This transition from her beloved profession as a teacher was challenging, but Gilda never looked back, understanding that sacrifices had to be made to meet her family's needs.

In 1977, Gilda and Edward saved enough money to purchase their first home in Hayward, California. Despite initial concerns about affording the mortgage payments, they both agreed that it was the best decision for their family. Motivated like never before, Gilda was determined to do whatever it took to make ends meet.  She sought out any job opportunity that offered the flexibility she needed to be home in time to prepare dinner for her family.  At times, she worked tirelessly for seven days a week, finding strength and time to put in extra hours.  It was her unconditional love for her family and her unyielding faith that provided her with the necessary strength to embrace life to the fullest. For more than 20 years, Gilda and her family called Hayward home.

Gilda's four children attended Palma Ceia Elementary School, Calaroga Junior High School (MLK Jr. Middle School), and all graduated from Mt. Eden High School. They pursued undergraduate degrees in various fields, including Nursing from San Jose State University, Engineering from UC Berkeley, Physiology from UCLA, and Biology from UC Davis.  The eldest daughter continued her education, earning a Master's degree in Nursing from San Diego State University, while the oldest son achieved a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from UCLA.

In 2004, at the age of 63, Gilda lost her two-year battle with breast cancer. In honor of their courageous and beautiful mother, Gilda Ibarra Lozano, who instilled in them the importance of education, kindness, forgiveness, selflessness, faith, and love, her children established a scholarship for a deserving graduating senior from their alma mater, Mt. Eden High School. Through this scholarship, Gilda's legacy lives on by empowering future generations to pursue their educational goals and dreams. This scholarship not only honors her commitment to education but also serves as a reminder of the strength, love, and perseverance she demonstrated throughout her life, helping to guide her family and now others toward a brighter future.