Meet our Students

Investing in the college education of Central Florida’s Hispanic students is our commitment.

We believe in the potential of our community. We know they dream big and are committed to supporting them.

They are the future leaders of the region.

2023 Students

Alejandro Walker Da Silva

Health Sciences University of Central Florida

A star high school soccer player, Alejandro was forced to temper his soccer dreams after his mother suffered a debilitating stroke and he was forced to work to help her support his siblings. Though his free time is now limited, he continues to coach soccer and support the youth in his community. Alejandro’s involvement in his mother’s post-stroke medical care has inspired him to pursue a career as a physical therapist.

Anavictoria Pagan

Biology
Rollins College

Anavictoria has persevered through her parents’ struggles with multiple health issues and lack of stable employment due to job losses associated with post-Covid cutbacks. She has been particularly affected by her mother’s struggle to manage chronic pain, leading her to pursue pre-pharmacy studies with the goal of becoming a practicing pharmacist.

Aref Abdala

Aerospace Engineering
University of Central Florida

Shortly after his eighth birthday, Aref was diagnosed with stage four Ewing Sarcoma and ended up beating cancer three times. His experience led him to volunteer with Camp Fiesta, which serves kids battling terminal diseases. During his senior year of high school, the pandemic affected his family’s business, so he began working full-time to earn money for college while finishing high school. Today, Aref continues to work part-time while juggling academics, extracurriculars, and volunteering.

Avery Cranston

Biology
Rollins College

Participating in a dual enrollment program at Edgewater Hight School and Valencia College, Avery completed 24 hours of coursework towards an associate degree and was named to the Valencia President’s Honor list. She moved nine times prior to high school graduation and persevered to become a straight A student. Avery plans to eventually earn an advanced degree in Astrobiology and join the aerospace industry.

Bailey Chevres

Health Science
Valencia College

Overcoming the loss of both of her parents as an 11-year-old, Bailey persevered through this traumatic experience and plans to make life science and medicine her career. Her plan includes a move to the University of Central Florida upon finishing two years at Valencia College and pursuing a pre-medicine program with the goal of becoming a physician assistant.

Briseias Gomez

Business Administration
University of Central Florida

Homeschooled her entire life, Briseias received her associate degree at age seventeen. To cope with the loss of a close family member, she began writing poetry to deal with her grief, and it gave her a new perspective on her own ambitions. A fan of numbers as well as words, Briesias is looking at a career in finance or accounting upon graduation.

Cecilia Viloria

Biology
University of Central Florida

Financial challenges limited Cecelia’s college choices after high school, but they did not limit her ambition of becoming a veterinarian. She excelled in high school and used that success to earn a Bright Futures scholarship, allowing her to attend Seminole State College and complete her associate degree. Now at UCF, she will major in Biology, thus taking the next step toward her achieving her goal of attending veterinary school.

Chantal Diaz

Biomedical Science
AdventHealth University

After immigrating to the United States from the Mexico as an eight-year-old, Chantal overcame the language barrier and excelled in high school. For years after, citizenship issues delayed her post-secondary education. These were finally overcome, and she pursued a degree at Advent University, where she now works. Exposed to the work of clinical staff, Chantal now aspires to become a nurse and midwife.

Christian Rodriguez

Biomedical Science
University of Central Florida

Christian has had an interest in becoming a physician since his boyhood in Colombia, where he was pressed into service to respond to a medical emergency that befell one of his elementary school teachers. Continuing to preserve in his pursuit of this career goal after arriving in the United States, he has overcome language barriers and financial challenges to earn a 3.9 grade average in biomedical sciences at UCF.

Christine Melendez

Information Technology
University of Central Florida

Christine’s steady pursuit of her education goals has consumed almost half of her life. She recently completed her associate degree and is now on to UCF to pursue a degree in Information Technology, with a career goal of becoming a network security analyst and pursuing a graduate degree.

Cristina Maldonado

Early Childhood Development and Education
University of Central Florida

Growing up as one of six children, Cristina watched her parents work hard in agriculture to give her family a better future. As a GEMS mentor, Cristina has also helped fellow women thrive in their first two years of college. After noticing that her mentees were quiet during their Zoom sessions, Cristina decided to invite impressive guest speakers to their meetings including a Google recruiter. Following graduation Cristina is interested in working abroad.

Daniel Hernandez

Political Science
Valencia College

Daniel is still a teenager but has already overcome ADHD to become a member of his high school National Honor Society and to complete a three-year technical training program in two years. He is currently working as an apprentice in his field and using this work to fund his pursuit of a political science degree. Daniel aspires to a career in government, with the Foreign Service as his objective.

Daniel Zuniga

Nursing
Seminole State College

Working in a pediatrics office as a high school student has shaped Daniel’s career aspirations. He was exposed to both the clinical work of the office and the management challenges associated with running a medical office. He chose the clinical route will and nursing degree, with aspirations of a career in the profession.

Daniella Borges

Nursing
University of Central Florida

The daughter of Colombian immigrants, Daniella lost her father at the age of nine. She watched her mother work tirelessly to provide opportunities for her and give her the opportunity to achieve her academic and career goals, which inspired her to aim high. Daniella plans to work as a pediatric nurse after receiving a bachelor’s degree in nursing from the University of Central Florida. Ultimately, she would like to return to school, earn a master’s degree in nursing and serve as a nurse practitioner or nurse anesthetist, focusing on pediatrics.

Diego Lopez

Accounting
University of Central Florida

A career as an accountant has been Diego’s goal since the very beginning of his college journey at UCF, though he has had to overcome some personal challenges along the way, including hurricane storm damage that affected his housing arrangements He is now focused on earning the additional credit hours necessary to qualify to sit for the CPA exam. Diego recently completed an internship at KPMG – one of the “Big 4” accounting firms – which is a testament to his commitment to this career path.

Dyanna Reynoso-Aguirre

Nursing
University of Central Florida

Dyanna’s interest in health science began when she researched her grandmother’s illness. Though neither of her parents attended high school in Mexico, they encouraged her to excel. She did, becoming the study body president at Oak Ridge High School and finishing in the top 5% of her class. Selected as a LEAD scholar and the University of Central Florida, Dyanna plans to pursue a career as a neonatal nurse.

Gabriela Gil

Psychology
University of Central Florida

The only child of immigrants from Mexico and Peru, Gabriela overcame debilitating anxiety as a child to eventually graduate in the Top 10 of her high school class and earn admission to UCF. She is majoring in psychology, with an eye toward a career in medicine where she can assist others who have experienced mental health challenges like the ones she faced as a child.

Gianfranco Amati

Psychology
University of Central Florida

Immigrating to the United States from his native Venezuela at age eighteen, Gianfranco worked full-time for four years to put himself in a position to become a full-time student, first earning an associate degree from Valencia College and now at UCF, where he works as an undergraduate research assistant while pursuing a degree in Psychology

Gustavo Sanchez

Psychology
Rollins College

Gustavo has overcome a difficult and psychologically taxing childhood and young adulthood to successfully complete an associate’s degree and gain admission to Rollins College. In the process of doing so, he also discovered his calling, and now aspires to a career as a psychologist, giving him the opportunity to assist others who may have faced similar challenges to those he faced while pursuing his goals.

Hayley Colon

Psychology
Rollins College

The daughter of a single mother, Hayley has excelled at Rollins College while working as both a housing resident assistant and as a student IT technician. A Psychology major, Hayley aspires to be a licensed family counselor, specializing in marriage counseling. She believes that her experiences as a resident assistant are preparing her well for a her future career as a counselor.

Julie Moreno

Biology
University of Central Florida

A cancer survivor who endured chemotherapy during her high school years, Julie is determined to use the experience as continued inspiration while pursuing a career in medicine. Living with cancer taught Julie the value of perseverance and that you can accomplish things you never thought possible. After completing her bachelor’s degree at the University of Central Florida she plans to apply for medical school and eventually help those who are dealing with cancer as she once did.

Julimar De la Rosa

Biology
University of Central Florida

A multi-sport high school athlete from a family of modest means, Julimar graduated in the top ten percent of her class and started her biology degree at UCF immediately in the first summer term, when she was still only seventeen years old. Her career aspiration is to become a government research scientist in public health or disease prevention.

Karla Diaz Pina

Advertising and Public Affairs
University of Central Florida

Learning to bridge the Venezuelan culture of her immigrant parents and the American culture of her peer group developed Karla’s interest in communications and public relations. She will pursue this interest by majoring in advertising and public relations at UCF. After graduation she hopes to join a creative agency that promotes social and environmental responsibility as part of its work with clients.

Karla Luzardo

Philosophy
University of Central Florida

Leaving Venezuela with her parents to find safety and economic security in the United States, Karla faced language barriers, financial constraints, and uncertain immigration status, as she has pursued her educational goals. After graduating from Valencia College, she committed to a pre-law track at UCF, with attending law school as her objective. She hopes to someday practice immigration law, providing first-hand perspective to those facing the same challenges she has faced.

Karol A. Pineda Rodriguez

Business and Information Management
Seminole State College

Immigrating to the United States from Honduras in her early twenties, Karol spoke no English and therefor had limited employment opportunities. She eventually found work as a housekeeper and began learning English by learning the words for each item on her cleaning cart. She also found a mentor at a local women’s charity who redirected her academic career. Karol went on to earn her associate degree during the 2020 pandemic and is now pursuing her bachelor’s degree at Seminole State College.

Lorena Milian

Computer Science
Valencia College
Arriving in the United States from her native Cuba unable to speak English, Lorena persevered through several menial jobs in manufacturing, hospitality, and food service, using her co-workers to practice the language, eventually becoming proficient. She eventually applied for and was accepted into the Seneff Honors College at Valencia College, which broadens the horizons of students by offering an enhanced curriculum and opportunities to explore numerous career and public service paths. Lorena’s immediate goal is to move on to the University of Central Florida and pursue a bachelor’s degree in computer science.

Luis Perdomo Hernández

Chemistry
University of Central Florida

Luis Perdomo Hernandez is in his fourth year at the University of Central Florida. He graduated from high school Summa Cum Laude and is trilingual. He received a bronze and silver medal in the National French Contest and is also fluent in Spanish. Luis’ goal is to earn bachelor’s and master’s degrees in chemical engineering and then work in the pharmaceutical industry. He says he wants to honor his community and Hispanic heritage as a scientist to provide innovations that can facilitate a better standard of living for Americans and the generations to come.

Lyan Ortiz Brito

Kinesiology
Seminole State College

Lyan and her family were displaced from her native Puerto Rico by Hurricane Maria in 2017. She was forced to leave her friends and schoolmates behind and start a new life in Oviedo, Florida. Lyan’s family has struggled financially since their arrival in Florida, which has led to frequent moves and constant economic challenges. However, Lyan has thrived academically, and will begin her college career at Seminole State College, where she will study kinesiology. It will be a first step toward achieving her goal of becoming a physical therapist.

María Laura Carrillo Añez

Dental Hygiene
Valencia College

Laura’s family was politically persecuted in her native Venezuela and came to the U.S. almost three years ago. A first-generation college student, she plans to transfer to UCF, earn a bachelor’s degree and go to dental school to become a dentist specializing in maxillofacial surgery. During the pandemic Maria Laura volunteered with her school’s Hispanic Latino Student Union working with the school’s Exceptional Student Education (ESE) children and volunteers. María enjoys painting and drawing in her spare time.

Maria Salcedo

AdventHealth University
Cardiovascular Sonography

Maria left Colombia as a teen mother of a young daughter and persevered through community college and an undergraduate degree in international business, choices made to best position her to support her family. However, she maintained a lifelong dream of becoming a healthcare provider, and will now pursue that dream at AdventHealth University, where she will study cardiovascular sonography

Mariana Rodriguez Chavez

Mechanical Engineering
University of Central Florida

Leaving her native Mexico for the United States, Marianna became a Texan, eventually arriving in Florida to join the of the University of Central Florida track and field team. She is also anxious to get her career as a mechanical engineer off and running and has already done an internship in her field. After earning her bachelor’s degree, Mariana is looking forward to pursuing a career in the aerospace industry.

Miguel Rivera

Medical Lab Technician
Lake Sumter College

Losing his father just before starting high school, Miguel overcame this loss to excel both academically and athletically, eventually entering a dual-enrollment program in high school while also earning the opportunity to play college soccer. Miguel will be completing his associate degree and starting at UCF during this school year. His near-term goal is to become an MRI technician

Nalleli Collado

Education
University of Central Florida

Nalleli is a registered behavior technician who is committed to improving the lives of children, a pursuit that is informed by her own experiences in a family beset by chronic illness. She is pursuing her bachelor’s degree in early childhood development and education at the University of Central Florida and aspires to become a child life specialist, utilizing social media and emerging communications technology to connect with her clients.

Nazliyan Duman

Social Entrepreneurship
Rollins College

Nazliyan has a lifelong commitment to social responsibility that has led to Rollins College, one of the best non-profit management programs in the United States. Working three jobs and completing required weekly volunteer hours, she has still managed to earn President’s List academic honors. Post-graduation, Nazilyan’s goal is to work with social enterprises to build sustainable supply chains that improve their bottom line.

Neida Lopez

Civil Engineering
University of Central Florida

Neida completed an internship with a construction company this past summer and it has solidified her desire to pursue a career in the construction industry. She’s even begun to learn to weld to have a better understanding of the trades used in the industry. After receiving her bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from the University of Central Florida, Neida aspires to one day take her skill in building things to the third world, and work on international development projects that build homes and critical infrastructure for communities that lack access to the resources and expertise to construct them.

Nestor Perez Nucette

Computer Engineering
University of Central Florida

Escaping the oppression in Venezuela for opportunity in the United Staes, Nestor has overcome financial, health, and immigration challenges to earn a spot at UCF. In his short time in high school in this country, he distinguished himself as a high achiever in the STEM courses and aided his fellow students seeking to improve their academic achievement. A lifelong techie, Nestor will pursue computer engineering to fulfill his interest in creating new technologies that improve the user experience.

Nialynn Felix

Fire Academy
Seminole State College

A dance instructor who aspires to be an EMT Nialynn is committed to making saving lives her eventual life’s work. Navigating the challenging process of attending the fire academy and the necessary on-the-job training that follows has been difficult but has also served to strengthen her resolve to succeed in her career of choice.

Noe Avila

Nursing
University of Central Florida

The discipline of competitive Brazilian Jujitsu has led Noe to believe in her ability overcome challenges. She is currently working a full-time schedule as a restaurant shift manager while pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, one of the most challenge four-year degrees. Post -graduation she will continue to accept challenges, with a goal of working in an intensive care unit and ultimately pursing an advanced degree.

Oriana Coto Bello

Biology
University of Central Florida

At a young age Oriana had multiple interactions with healthcare providers that led to her commitment to pursuing healthcare as a career. In one of these situations, Oriana was coaching a youth gymnastics team when a fellow coach suffered a seizure. Her self-assessment of her response to the emergency convinced her that she had the personal traits necessary to pursue a career as a trauma physician, which is now her goal.

Ornella Vintimilla

Biomedical Sciences

Pre-Med & Psychology

University of Central Florida

While growing up in Ecuador, Ornella witnessed both family health struggles and the ability of the medical community to successfully address them. This is what motivated her to pursue a career in biomedical sciences pre-med and to help those facing similar challenges: helping others. As an example of her commitment to serving others, Ornella started a business during the Covid pandemics – Baker Healthy – to provide those requiring a low-sugar or sugar-free diet a way to enjoy healthy desserts. After graduation from Valencia College Ornella will continue to the University of Central Florida to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Biomedical Sciences Pre-Med & Psychology.

Osvanelly Guzman

Biomedical Science
University of Central Florida

From the time she looked through a microscope at onion skin cells in sixth grade, Osvanelly wanted to be a plant scientist. Volunteering in botanical gardens put her close to horticulture and botany, and she hopes to use these experiences to pursue a career as a plant science field research scientist.

Paola Santini

Marine and Aquatic Biology
Valencia College

Still a teenager, the quad-lingual Paola has already completed an internship at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and is working on publishing her first research paper. After finishing at Valencia, Paola will attend UCF and then on to an advanced degree. Her career goals include a return to NOAA or other marine research organization to pursue a career as a marine biologist.

Priscilla Rivera Cortez

Data Analytics
Seminole State College

Arriving in Florida from Puerto Rico in 2017, speaking no English, Priscilla completed both ESOL and EAP to build her language skills in preparation for college. Acquiring the financial resources to pursue her education goals was Priscilla’s next challenge, and she will work full time while attending Seminole State to finance her degree.

Rodolfo Rodríguez-Muro

Aerospace Engineering
University of Central Florida

During the early days of the pandemic, Rodolfo constructed 1,500 face shields using a 3D printer when PPE was non-existent. He delivered these to hospitals, nursing homes, police departments, and grocery stores. Rodolfo also organized a video game tournament at his school to raise money for a nonprofit that provides video games to the less fortunate. After graduation, Rodolfo plans to work for a major aerospace company like Boeing, Lockheed Martin, or SpaceX.

Sebastian Tovar-Morales

Management
University of Central Florida

Sebastian has experienced complex migraine headaches since age thirteen and has overcome this debilitating condition by adopting a healthy lifestyle. This focus on his personal health has allowed him to pursue full-time study and part-time employment, both of which are critical to achieving his goal of completing a double major in Management and Marketing and working in sports management.

Sofia Lomba

Psychology
Rollins College

Sofia moved from to the United States from the Dominican Republic to attend Rollins College during the Covid pandemic, when only 200 students were on campus. Three years later she is a resident advisor and holds two other jobs on campus, including student psychology researcher. Motivated to study psychology by the stigma associated with mental health issues in her home country, Sofia’s goal is to earn a PhD in psychology, become a practicing psychologist, and work to change the perception of mental health illness in the Latino community.

Sonia Alvarez

Mechanical Engineering
University of Central Florida

An accomplished soccer player, a torn ACL put Sonia’s athletic pursuits on pause but gave her time to satisfy her curiosity about other things, including her own surgery and recovery. This led to an interest in medical devices and, eventually, to her majoring in mechanical engineering for the opportunity to build them. Already having visited over a dozen countries, Sonia hopes to work abroad following her graduation from UCF in Spring 2024.

Sylvia Ng

Biomedical Science and Clinical Psychology University of Central Florida

Pursuing a double major in Biomedical Science and Clinical Psychology at UCF, Silvia’s goal is to gain entry to a top medical school and eventually pursue a career as an anesthesiologist. Outside of the classroom, Silvia is building her medical school application portfolio by serving as an undergraduate teaching assistant in UCF’s Immunology lab and working with a student organization that aims to increase awareness of the importance of service animals and service animal etiquette.

2022 Students

Alondra Gittelson

Health Sciences University of Central Florida

Alondra has a strong commitment to giving back. She has performed free blood pressure screenings for the homeless, served as a translator for Shepherd’s Hope, and worked as a medical assistant for a nonprofit that helps the uninsured. Alondra was selected to participate in a STEM apprenticeship program and is very active in campus organizations. She is pursuing a minor in business and plans to go to PA school or work in the business side of healthcare.

Andrea Mullin

Neuropsychology
University of Central Florida

Andrea is a Robert E. McNair Scholar at the University of Centra Florida. This program specializes in facilitating resources to prospective PhD students. She serves as a mentor for the Academic Advancement Program (AAP) at UCF, an initiative that prepares underrepresented, low-income, and first-generation college students to pursue advanced degrees. Andrea is also a member of the UCF LEARN program, which immerses first-time STEM students in undergraduate research.

Aref Abdala

Aerospace Engineering
University of Central Florida

Avery Cranston

Biology
Rollins College

Bailey Chevres

Health Science
Valencia College

Bernice Lajas

Business Administration
Valencia College

A licensed real estate and mortgage professional, Bernice has found a way to work as a loan officer, attend school full time and support a family of five. An entrepreneur at heart, she enjoys consulting with small businesses. Bernice’s goal is to earn her bachelor’s degree and eventually open her own loan servicing company.

Brendan Rodriguez

Computer Engineering
University of Central Florida

Living on his own since he was a senior in high school, Brendan has turned challenging personal situations into a focus on future achievement. Finding his passion in technology through re-programming video games, he has chosen to pursue graduate studies in computer engineering. Brendan wants to conduct research on the Internet of Things (IoT) with the goal of building a technology company focused on the IoT industry.

Cristina Maldonado

Early Childhood Development and Education
University of Central Florida

Daniella Borges

Nursing
University of Central Florida

Daniella Davila

Finance
University of Central Florida

While a young girl in Colombia, Daniella sold snack door-to-door to help her mother support her family. This early exposure to the realities of poverty inspired her interest in finance. She is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in finance at the University of Central Florida with the goal of become a financial advisor after graduation. Eventually she wants to open her own financial advisory company.

Dyanna Reynoso

Nursing
University of Central Florida

Felix Morales

Biomedical Engineering
University of Central Florida

Living in foster care home and group homes and being separated from his six siblings at an early age taught Felix to overcome any challenge that comes his way. He currently works and supports his mother while also maintaining a full-time class schedule. After graduation Felix hopes to work for a biomedical engineering firm or biotechnology startup company. His long-term goal is starting a company that creates prosthetics for low-income patients with limited access to advanced medical technology.

Gabriela Mansilla

Hospitality Management
University of Central Florida

Gabriela believes that attaining a college education is an important way of showing her parents that their sacrifices were worth it. In high school, Gabriela volunteered more than 250 hours organizing a book drive and fundraiser for the African Library Project and was able to ship 1,000 books for a library in Botswana. Gabriela is active in student organizations, works full time, and enjoys practicing Mandarin. Her goal is to become a general manager of a top resort

Grace Calderon

Aerospace Engineering
Seminole State College

As a NASA National Community College Aerospace Scholar, Grace already has a great start on her chosen career field. She is also pursuing her private pilot’s license. Grace is also enrolled in an AmeriCorps apprenticeship to enhance her leadership skills. After completing her associate degree at Seminole State College Grace plans to continue her studies in aerospace engineering at the University of Central Florida. Her career plans include returning to NASA.

Jaime Guzman

Pre-Architecture
Valencia College

While attending five middle schools and four high schools, Jamie persevered academically and achieved a place in the National Honor Society at Oak Ridge High School, completing coursework consisting of advance placement and honors courses. In addition to success in the classroom, he also founded the Environmental Science Club and served as the club’s president. The first of his family to attend college, Jamie will start in the pre-architecture pathway at Valencia college with a goal of becoming an architect, using his interest in environmental science as his guiding principle.

Joani Pena Ocasio

Business
University of Central Florida

The first of Joani’s four children was born while she was still in her teens, but she persevered in her pursuit of a college degree and now, after years of managing both a household and her coursework, she is completing her associate degree and is moving on to the University of Central Florid to pursue her bachelor’s in business. After finishing at UCF Joani plans to pursue an entrepreneurial path, becoming a business owner that her entire family can be involved in running with her.

Juan Cabrera

Theatre
Rollins College

Juan is an aspiring actor with plans to work in film. In the past, Juan has taught theater to children in underprivileged communities in his hometown of Miami. At Rollins, Juan is a residential assistant and master carpenter at the Annie Russell Theater. He is a member of the Rollins Players and Rollins Improv Players. He was one of only two students to be honored with the talent-based Priscilla Parker Award.

Julie Moreno

Biology
University of Central Florida

A cancer survivor who endured chemotherapy during her high school years, Julie is determined to use the experience as continued inspiration while pursuing a career in medicine. Living with cancer taught Julie the value of perseverance and that you can accomplish things you never thought possible. After completing her bachelor’s degree at University of Central Florida she plans to apply for medical school and eventually help those who are dealing with cancer as she once did.

Karol A. Pineda

Business and Information Management
Seminole State College

Liam Collins

Psychology

University of Central Florida

After losing an eye to cancer at age 2, Liam faced early struggles adapting to his disability. A talented musician, he learned to face challenges presented by his eyesight directly. Determined to join his high school marching band, Liam came up with workarounds to march normally, including lining himself up with shadows on the ground to stay in step. This process convinced him that “disability” doesn’t mean “inability” and freed him to pursue anything that will advance his personal growth. After completing his education, Liam will pursue a career as a licensed therapist, assisting others in meeting challenges like those he has experienced first-hand.

Lorena Milian

Computer Science
Valencia College

Arriving in the United States from her native Cuba unable to speak English, Lorena persevered through several menial jobs in manufacturing, hospitality, and food service, using her co-workers to practice the language, eventually becoming proficient. She eventually applied for and was accepted into the Seneff Honors College at Valencia College, which broadens the horizons of students by offering an enhanced curriculum and opportunities to explore numerous career and public service paths. Lorena’s immediate goal is to move on to the University of Central Florida and pursue a bachelor’s degree in computer science.

Luis Perdomo

Chemistry
University of Central Florida

María Laura Carrillo

Dental Hygiene
Valencia College

Mariana Rodriguez

Mechanical Engineering
University of Central Florida

Originally from Texas, Mariana competes on the UCF Track and Field team. In the summer of 2020, Mariana’s father tested positive for COVID-19 and an infection required him to have heart surgery. As a result, Mariana applied to the scholarship to find the funds to pay for her education expenses while also helping her family. A first-generation college student, she plans to work for a heavy civil construction company or in the aerospace industry.

Nalleli Collado

Education
University of Central Florida

Neida Lopez

Civil Engineering
University of Central Florida

Neida completed an internship with a construction company this past summer and it has solidified her desire to pursue a career in the construction industry. She’s even begun to learn to weld to have a better understanding of the trades used in the industry. After receiving her bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from the University of Central Florida, Neida aspires to one day take her skill in building things to the third world, and work on international development projects that build homes and critical infrastructure for communities lack access to the resources and expertise to construct them.

Ornella Vintimilla

Nursing
Valencia College

While growing up in Ecuador, Ornella witnessed both family health struggles and the ability of the medical community to successfully address them. This is what motivated her to pursue and career in nursing and to help those facing similar challenges: helping others. As an example of her commitment to serving others, Ornella started a business during the Covid pandemics – Baker Healthy – to provide those requiring a low-sugar or sugar-free diets a way to enjoy healthy desserts. After graduation from Valencia College Ornella will continue to the University of Central Florida to pursue a bachelor’s degree in nursing and one day hopes to become a nurse practitioner.

Oscar Garcia

Biomedical Science
University of Central Florida

After graduation, Oscar plans to attend medical school and become a pediatrician. A first-generation student, Oscar is a married father of four children. He works full-time as a roadway compliance officer for the Florida Department of Transportation’s I-4 Ultimate program. He also has scribed for medical providers in various emergency departments and Level 1 trauma centers. In his spare time, Oscar enjoys coaching his son’s basketball team and mentoring his little brother from the Big Brothers Big Sisters program.

Rodolfo Rodríguez

Aerospace Engineering
University of Central Florida

Sebastian Peralta

Electrical Engineering
University of Central Florida

Essentially forced to become homeless in his junior year at the University of Central Florida, Sebastian was often forced to sleep in his car to attend classes, some of them the most challenging in the engineering curriculum. He persevered, maintaining a high GPA while working several on-campus jobs to cover his expenses. Sebastian is on track to complete his degree in 2023 and aspires to tackle environmental impact issues such as improving sustainability, reducing fossil fuel emissions, and advancing to adoption of alternative energy sources.

Stephanie Acosta

Business
Valencia College

Stephanie is unique in this year’s class by the fact that both she and one of her children will be attending college in the same academic year. Managing three children, working full-time, and completing a degree has certainly been a challenge, but Stephanie has persevered to earn her associate degree from Valencia College and is now working toward completing her bachelor’s, also at Valencia. She aspires to work in the human resources field after receiving her bachelor’s degree.

Stephanie Valladares

Computer Science and Economics
Rollins College

Being born with cystic fibrosis (CF) in Honduras meant that Stephanie’s family – who had already lost one daughter to CF- had limited access to the advanced healthcare resources necessary to fight this complex disease. But her family did fight, and she has survived to excel academically, making the Rollins College President’s List for four consecutive semesters. She has achieved this success while continuing to address her CF with at daily regimen of therapy and medication. After graduation in late 2023, Stephanie will seek to use her degree in a role that impacts the lives of others while serving as a role model for young women considering a career in a science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM).

Vimalys Rivera

Biomedical Sciences
University of Central Florida

As a volunteer for Grace Medical Home, Vimalys has greeted patients, asked COVID-19 screening questions, and performed temperature checks. Seeing the relief patients express when they can freely communicate with her in their native Spanish has inspired Vimalys to pursue a career in healthcare. After graduation, she plans to attend medical school and become a doctor.

2021 Students

Alejandra Fernandez

Health Science
University of Central Florida

After losing her mother to cancer while in high school, Alejandra gained a greater appreciation for life and a passion for helping others. She makes it a priority to participate in breast cancer walks in honor of her mom. When she’s not studying, Alejandra works part-time and has volunteered at a physical therapy clinic and for Orlando Health. She is minoring in Criminal Justice and plans to either attend physician assistant graduate school or work for the FBI.

Alondra Gittelson

Health Sciences University of Central Florida

Aref Abdala

Aerospace Engineering
University of Central Florida

Vimalys Rivera

Biomedical Sciences
University of Central Florida

Carmen Luciano

Business, Entrepreneurship, Marketing and Management
Florida Technical College

Carmen is an award-winning entrepreneur, speaker, and radio show personality who provides the Latino community with financial planning and business advice. A single mother to a teenage daughter, Carmen is finally achieving her dream of attending college. Her journey has not been easy. Carmen has weathered financial hardships, personal adversity, and illness. She is focused on fulfilling a promise to her late father to use her life experiences and voice to encourage others.

Cecilia Viloria

Biomedical Sciences Seminole State College

A two-time scholarship recipient and first-generation college student, Cecilia is a member of the Grindle Honors Institute at Seminole State College. After earning her associate degree, Cecilia plans to transfer to UCF and study Biology or Biomedical Sciences. Her long-term goal is to become a veterinarian. When she’s not studying or volunteering with animal rescue organizations, Cecilia enjoys photography and collecting vinyl records.

Christian Rodriguez

Biomedical Sciences
University of Central Florida

Christian dreams of attending medical school and becoming a physician. After transferring to UCF from Valencia College, he became a member of Phi Delta Epsilon International Medical Fraternity and began volunteering in the emergency department at Dr. P. Phillips Hospital. In addition to earning excellent grades, he has managed to work at least 20 hours a week. Christian enjoys soccer, weightlifting, and swimming.

Cristina Maldonado

Early Childhood Development and Education University of Central Florida

Dafne Cardena

Musical Theater Valencia College

A musical theater lover since the fifth grade, Dafne aspires to finish her associate degree and transfer to an arts college. A first-generation college student, Dafne was born and raised in Mexico where she lived until moving to the U.S. for a student exchange program. She later moved with her family to Orlando. In addition to school and working a part-time job, Dafne has been active in chorus, jazz, and musical theater productions.

Daniel Goodman

Health Sciences University of Central Florida

Daniel has a profound drive to help others. Upon arriving in the U.S. from Colombia in 2018 just before the midterm elections, he was inspired to encourage fellow young people to vote even when he could not. He hosted voter registration events and an informative webinar to educate the community on the political process. As a first-generation college student, Daniel plans to attend medical school and become a primary care physician serving rural communities.

Gabriela Mansilla

Hospitality Management
University of Central Florida

Greyson Martin

Film
University of Central Florida

Greyson graduated high school early and started college at the age of 16. He volunteered regularly at an elementary school helping the staff build and run their clothing and food donation center and tutoring students who attended the after-school program. He is a lover of the arts who enjoys the creative process and plans to further develop his artistic pursuits through commissions, films, and products.

Isabella Willhelm

Architecture
University of Central Floridae

Upon graduation, Isabella plans to attend graduate school. Her goal is to create harmonious architecture between our built and natural worlds. Before transferring to UCF from Valencia College, she participated in the Beyond 34 initiative aimed at boosting recycling in the U.S. In addition to her academics and independent honors research, Isabella mentors younger architecture students and high school students.

Jessica Cruz

Business Management
Rollins College

Jessica is a two-time recipient of this scholarship. Despite a busy schedule and financial challenges, she has made it a priority to volunteer at a middle school serving disadvantaged and at-risk children, sharing her story of growing up as the oldest of six children in a migrant family. A first-generation college student, Jessica works at a State Farm agency while managing a full course load. After graduation, she has a five-year action plan to open her own agency.

Jovani Gutierrez

Mechanical Engineering
University of Central Florida

At the age of 9, Jovani remembers giving his late grandmother insulin shots and reminding her to check her blood sugar. Witnessing her struggles with diabetes led him to pursue a career in biomedical engineering. Jovani is a first-generation student and a McNair Scholar. After graduation, he plans to enter a doctoral program at Stanford University and develop medical devices and drug delivery techniques for people living with diabetes.

Juan Cabrera

Theatre
Rollins College

Kitana Rojas

Elementary Education
University of Central Florida

As a lifelong dancer, Kitana is the Artistic Director of the Knights and Damsels Dance Company. She volunteered as team captain for the group’s fundraising team for Knight-thon, a university-wide fundraiser benefiting the Arnold Palmer Children’s Hospital. When the 2020 event was cancelled due to the pandemic, Kitana found creative ways to motivate her fellow dancers through Zoom. After graduation she plans to work as an elementary school teacher and continue choreographing dance on the side.

Laila Johnston

Mathematics
University of Central Florida

Laila is fascinated by the human mind and plans to pursue a PhD studying how mathematics can help us understand it. A first-generation college student, she was accepted to Carnegie Mellon University’s summer research program to study how computer algorithms can help solve mysteries of the brain. Recently, she completed another summer program at MIT researching cognitive neuroscience. Laila is president and vice president of two clubs on campus and enjoys tutoring fellow students enrolled in STEM programs.

Laurent Sanchez

Biology
Seminole State College

Originally from Cuba, Laurent came to the U.S. 11 years ago. Her father was a doctor there and has served as her inspiration. In the future, Laurent plans to attend medical school and become a doctor specializing in neonatology. She aspires to serve Spanish-speaking immigrant communities. Laurent has volunteered in the postpartum unit at a local hospital and daycare center. She also served as a pole assistant during the 2020 elections.

Leopoldo Bonet

Digital Media – Game Design Specialization Seminole State College

Leopoldo moved to the U.S. from Venezuela 12 years ago with his wife and together they have made a happy life raising three sons. He studied architecture in his home country and since moving to Orlando, has worked full-time in the restaurant business to provide for his family. Leopoldo is enthusiastic about working in gaming upon graduation. In the past he has volunteered for after-school programs teaching music to underprivileged children. He speaks Spanish, English, Italian and French.

María Laura Carrillo

Dental Hygiene
Valencia College

Mariana Botero

Computer Science
University of Central Florida

Mariana’s father became a homeowner thanks to Habitat for Humanity, and Mariana fulfilled the organization’s volunteer requirement by helping build homes every Saturday morning for a year and half. A first-generation student, her professional interests lie in computer automation. She would like to contribute to the advancement and predicting of harmful diseases in humans using artificial intelligence and automation. After graduation, Mariana plans to attend medical school and provide accessible healthcare as a geriatric doctor.

Mariana Rodriguez

Mechanical Engineering
University of Central Florida

Oscar Garcia

Biomedical Science
University of Central Florida

Rocio Vazquez

Biomedical Sciences
University of Central Florida

Following the devastation of Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico, Rocio’s university classes were postponed for several months. She chose to move to Orlando alone to resume her studies at UCF. A three-time scholarship recipient, she plans to attend medical school, earn a PhD, and become a surgical pediatric oncologist. A proud accomplishment for Rocio was gaining acceptance to the Stanford Cardiovascular Institute Summer Research Program.

Rodolfo Rodríguez

Aerospace Engineering
University of Central Florida

Ronald Gonzalez

Mechanical Engineering
University of Central Florida

A first-generation student, Ronald dreams of creating the next generation of robots. In the future, he plans to pursue a master’s degree in either Mechatronics or Mechanical Engineering. Ronald hopes to one day work for a company like Tesla in its mission to fight against climate change. Aside from academics, he is a four-time Spartan Race Trifecta champion. Through his non-profit, Books for You, Ronald collected and distributed over 9,000 books to hundreds of people.

Ruth Beatriz Morales

Legal Studies
Seminole State College

Ruth cites her mother as her greatest inspiration and views higher education as a way to help her family. After graduation, Ruth plans to work to help people who cannot defend themselves. In addition to earning excellent grades, she has volunteered with the Boy Scouts and Unidos Por Ecuador of Central Florida working on food drives and holiday toy campaigns. In her free time Ruth enjoys exercising, doing arts and crafts, and being in nature.

Sylvia Ng

Psychology
University of Central Florida

Raised by a mother from Costa Rica and father from Hong Kong, Sylvia began playing soccer at age 4. One of her most meaningful volunteer opportunities has been with an organization that helps children with mental and physical disabilities play soccer. It was during this experience that she made a lifelong friend who taught her extremely valuable life lessons in the short amount of time that they had together. Sylvia plans to pursue graduate and doctorate degrees and one day work for the FBI.

Tanya Bahena

Legal Studies
University of Central Florida

At the age of 16, Tanya left Mexico to move the U.S. with her mother and sisters. Her family’s immigration processing took nearly 12 years and has inspired her to help other immigrants. After transferring to UCF from Valencia College, Tanya founded the Immigrant Justice Center that connects students with organizations focused on assisting underrepresented immigrants such as asylum seekers, refugees, victims of domestic violence and other crimes. Her dream is to attend law school and become an immigration attorney.

Vimalys Rivera

Biomedical Sciences
University of Central Florida