Resilience and Advocacy Define The Dominguez Firm's Fall 2026 Scholars

Both recipients' ultimate goal is to pursue a career in law.

LOS ANGELES, Sept. 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The Dominguez Firm, a leading California personal injury law firm, proudly announced its Fall 2026 Scholarship winners. Ruth Tessema, a recent graduate of the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, was named the Legal Scholar. She will attend American University Washington College of Law in the fall. Indica Garcia, currently a student at College of the Canyons, was selected as the Collegiate Scholar.

Indica Garcia is a first-generation college student who plans to earn her bachelor's degree before pursuing a career as a prosecutor. Her path to higher education hasn't always been easy. Early struggles, followed by a devastating family tragedy, challenged her. Those experiences ultimately strengthened her determination to one day assist others through the law.

Her remarkable academic turnaround reflects her perseverance. Since enrolling at College of the Canyons, Indica has steadily built a strong record while working toward her goal of transferring to a four-year university. During her family's darkest moments, individuals who stepped in showed her kindness and generosity. That compassion inspired her to help others similarly in the future.

Indica shared her reaction to receiving the Collegiate Scholarship. "This scholarship is more than financial support; it is an investment in my dream of becoming a prosecutor. I am incredibly grateful for this opportunity and motivated to continue working toward making a meaningful difference."

Ruth Tessema's interest in law began at a young age. Growing up in a first-generation immigrant household, she often navigated unfamiliar systems and institutions for her family. Furthermore, grave injustices committed against her extended community abroad forged her goal to advocate for those who are unrecognized or marginalized.

Ruth graduated cum laude from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, with a bachelor's degree in Political Science. While in college, she served as president of the NAACP and as an At-Large Senator in Student Government, among other leadership roles.

Ruth commented on being named the Fall 2026 Legal Scholarship recipient. "I am forever grateful for The Dominguez Firm Scholarship. There is so much stress that comes with being a first-generation student pursuing a law degree, and this scholarship came at exactly the right time. As I pursue my legal education, I hope to use my law degree to advocate for immigrant communities like my own. I cannot wait to pay it forward and support others when I am in a position to do so."

Founder and Managing Partner J.J. Dominguez and the entire Dominguez Firm staff congratulate Indica Garcia and Ruth Tessema on this accomplishment. The firm is proud to support students who are working toward their educational goals while making a meaningful difference in their communities.

The Dominguez Firm is a powerhouse personal injury law firm that has been helping clients for over 35 years. For a free consultation, call (800) 818-1818. Available 24/7.

Media Contact: Rosalia Tredwell
3250 Wilshire Blvd., Suite #2200
Los Angeles, CA 90010
(213) 388-7788
[email protected]

SOURCE The Dominguez Firm, LLP