Business & Finance
Education
Engineering
Entrepreneurship
Healthcare & Science
Media & Entertainment
Public Service
Social Justice
Technology
Business & Finance
Gold - Lucas Clavijo
Major: Business Administration
GPA: 3.90
High School: Carnegie Vanguard High School
Heritage: Colombian
Growing up playing with LEGOs, Lucas Clavijo experienced his first taste of creativity. They were the figurative and literal building blocks upon which his desire to become a “promethean problem-solver in business” was built. This spirit for innovation has since driven him academically and professionally. For instance, he has already founded his own organization, The Aux Project, which fundraised and awarded a scholarship for music production amounting to $2000. It is hardly surprising that his teachers all commend him for his attitude and work ethic, traits which set him apart from his peers. These traits have allowed him to achieve an impressive GPA of 3.9, amid rigorous coursework and extracurricular activities. In fact, he has had various awards conveyed upon him, including being named AP Scholar with Honor in 2019 and AP Scholar with Distinction in 2020. Lucas’ interest in business is acute and matched perhaps only by his commitment to the environment. In his future career, he hopes to effect a paradigm shift in business practices that focus on becoming an environmentally conscious global community. This dedication is clearly visible in his participation in groups like Citizen’s Climate Lobby and Junior States of America, in which he occupies the position of Gulf Coast Regional Mayor, and he has worked to address pertinent issues relating to environmental racism. Community service is of extreme importance to Lucas, who sees it as not only an avenue to evolve as an individual person, but also as an opportunity to create a communal sense of pride and collaboration to bolster everyone’s well-being. He is driven, he says, by the diverse array of colour and heritage that he sees in the people around him. Lucas plans to continue on his journey toward becoming a businessman by studying Business Administration at New York University, University of Southern California, or Carnegie Mellon.
GPA: 3.90
High School: Carnegie Vanguard High School
Heritage: Colombian
Growing up playing with LEGOs, Lucas Clavijo experienced his first taste of creativity. They were the figurative and literal building blocks upon which his desire to become a “promethean problem-solver in business” was built. This spirit for innovation has since driven him academically and professionally. For instance, he has already founded his own organization, The Aux Project, which fundraised and awarded a scholarship for music production amounting to $2000. It is hardly surprising that his teachers all commend him for his attitude and work ethic, traits which set him apart from his peers. These traits have allowed him to achieve an impressive GPA of 3.9, amid rigorous coursework and extracurricular activities. In fact, he has had various awards conveyed upon him, including being named AP Scholar with Honor in 2019 and AP Scholar with Distinction in 2020. Lucas’ interest in business is acute and matched perhaps only by his commitment to the environment. In his future career, he hopes to effect a paradigm shift in business practices that focus on becoming an environmentally conscious global community. This dedication is clearly visible in his participation in groups like Citizen’s Climate Lobby and Junior States of America, in which he occupies the position of Gulf Coast Regional Mayor, and he has worked to address pertinent issues relating to environmental racism. Community service is of extreme importance to Lucas, who sees it as not only an avenue to evolve as an individual person, but also as an opportunity to create a communal sense of pride and collaboration to bolster everyone’s well-being. He is driven, he says, by the diverse array of colour and heritage that he sees in the people around him. Lucas plans to continue on his journey toward becoming a businessman by studying Business Administration at New York University, University of Southern California, or Carnegie Mellon.
Silver - Julieta Silva
Major: Advertising, Communications, Business Administration, Radio-Film-Television, Entrepreneurship
GPA: 3.77
High School: Veterans Memorial Early College High School
Heritage: Mexican
Julieta Silva is gifted, enthusiastic, and with unlimited potential, she always challenges herself by taking the most rigorous courses offered at her high school, achieving a strong GPA of 3.77 and earning the distinction of being an AP Scholar with Honors. Additionally, she is the General Manager of Change by Gen Z, the Video Coordinator of Spread the Love and the Historian of her local H.O.S.A. chapter. For Julieta, her time in high school can be defined by two passions: Media Production and Business Administration. After interning at an advertising agency in Mexico, Julieta decided to create her own video editing and production business to help document the lives of families who had no other means of capturing important memories. Visual communication, she says, touches people’s hearts and plays a strong role in building interpersonal relationships, and she managed to do just that through her business. Julieta’s primary goal is to help her community and those around her. It is this desire to give back that inspired her to volunteer with Unidos Para Ayudar, a local group that donates food supplies to a home for children. During her time there, she has also learned important lessons that will surely help in her future in business. Leaders, she says, know how to value teamwork, as the success of a business hinges upon effective management. Being a good leader means seeing the world through someone else’s eyes and understanding their perspective. And Julieta is bound to be an excellent leader in her future. She plans to study Advertising, Communications, Business Administration, Radio-Film-Television, or Entrepreneurship at Northeastern University, Boston University, or University of Texas at Austin.
GPA: 3.77
High School: Veterans Memorial Early College High School
Heritage: Mexican
Julieta Silva is gifted, enthusiastic, and with unlimited potential, she always challenges herself by taking the most rigorous courses offered at her high school, achieving a strong GPA of 3.77 and earning the distinction of being an AP Scholar with Honors. Additionally, she is the General Manager of Change by Gen Z, the Video Coordinator of Spread the Love and the Historian of her local H.O.S.A. chapter. For Julieta, her time in high school can be defined by two passions: Media Production and Business Administration. After interning at an advertising agency in Mexico, Julieta decided to create her own video editing and production business to help document the lives of families who had no other means of capturing important memories. Visual communication, she says, touches people’s hearts and plays a strong role in building interpersonal relationships, and she managed to do just that through her business. Julieta’s primary goal is to help her community and those around her. It is this desire to give back that inspired her to volunteer with Unidos Para Ayudar, a local group that donates food supplies to a home for children. During her time there, she has also learned important lessons that will surely help in her future in business. Leaders, she says, know how to value teamwork, as the success of a business hinges upon effective management. Being a good leader means seeing the world through someone else’s eyes and understanding their perspective. And Julieta is bound to be an excellent leader in her future. She plans to study Advertising, Communications, Business Administration, Radio-Film-Television, or Entrepreneurship at Northeastern University, Boston University, or University of Texas at Austin.
Bronze - Eric González
Major: General Business
GPA: 3.60
High School: Cristo Rey Dallas College Prep
Heritage: Mexican
Many factors have contributed to the inspiration and determination with which Eric González has approached his goals. But his values are fundamentally a fusion of hard work and tradition – mixed with the constant hope for a better tomorrow. His mission is to impact the lives of others and he aims to achieve this by becoming an entrepreneur-turned-chef and opening a restaurant and community garden that will not only feed hungry kids but also educate and employ them. The bigger challenge he has set for himself, however, is to take his fight for a healthier tomorrow into City Hall, not only as a concerned citizen but as the US Secretary of Health and Human Services. Eric has already taken steps to realizing this dream. Over the last four summers he has collaborated with local food banks and fresh produce companies and coordinated the distribution of over 100,000 pounds of fresh produce to his community. More recently, he has participated in an embedded work-study program through corporate sponsors such as D Magazine and Dallas Bank Trust one day per week. For Eric, these are vitally important experiences not only because of his early exposure to the corporate world, but more importantly because his presence in those offices is an opportunity for those that may have preconceived ideas about “kids like him” to learn about his heritage and his community. Eric has, he admits, learned important life lessons the hard way. He had an important and life changing moment early in high school when a friend had been killed by gang violence. From that moment on he realized the importance of education, and the responsibility he had for bettering not only his own circumstances, but the futures of those around him too. Eric intends to carry on down his promising path by studying General Business at Georgetown University, Santa Clara University, or Southern Methodist University.
GPA: 3.60
High School: Cristo Rey Dallas College Prep
Heritage: Mexican
Many factors have contributed to the inspiration and determination with which Eric González has approached his goals. But his values are fundamentally a fusion of hard work and tradition – mixed with the constant hope for a better tomorrow. His mission is to impact the lives of others and he aims to achieve this by becoming an entrepreneur-turned-chef and opening a restaurant and community garden that will not only feed hungry kids but also educate and employ them. The bigger challenge he has set for himself, however, is to take his fight for a healthier tomorrow into City Hall, not only as a concerned citizen but as the US Secretary of Health and Human Services. Eric has already taken steps to realizing this dream. Over the last four summers he has collaborated with local food banks and fresh produce companies and coordinated the distribution of over 100,000 pounds of fresh produce to his community. More recently, he has participated in an embedded work-study program through corporate sponsors such as D Magazine and Dallas Bank Trust one day per week. For Eric, these are vitally important experiences not only because of his early exposure to the corporate world, but more importantly because his presence in those offices is an opportunity for those that may have preconceived ideas about “kids like him” to learn about his heritage and his community. Eric has, he admits, learned important life lessons the hard way. He had an important and life changing moment early in high school when a friend had been killed by gang violence. From that moment on he realized the importance of education, and the responsibility he had for bettering not only his own circumstances, but the futures of those around him too. Eric intends to carry on down his promising path by studying General Business at Georgetown University, Santa Clara University, or Southern Methodist University.
Education
Gold - Julie Serrano
Major: Environmental Science with a minor in Education
GPA: 3.44
High School: Porter High School
Heritage: Mexican
It was in the eighth grade that Julie Serrano chose to join Ready, Set, Teach!, a program for future educators. Since then, her passion for teaching has exponentially grown, and she has become increasingly interested in learning various teaching styles, in particular those that accommodate children with different needs. More recently, Julie joined her school’s TAFE (Texas Association of Future Educator’s) chapter and has since become its President. Being TAFE President has presented her with a series of challenges: having to prepare events, managing the members of her team, and ensuring all deadlines were met. But these challenges also helped her mature and gain invaluable experience. Julie’s passion for education has also emphasized the importance of volunteerism, where she has had the opportunity to meet new people, make friends, and of course help uplift those in her community who are in need. For Julie, helping people always comes first. Every opportunity to help the community, she says, must be seized. But it is only within the context of the issues historically faced by the Latino community that her motivation for education first and foremost arises. It is first a matter of learning about and preserving her own heritage, and second of helping others understand it. Education is an invaluable weapon in this struggle. Because it is through education, she believes, that one can teach others about who you are, what you are capable of doing and growing to be. Education is also vital for the Latino community, because it provides people with an important sense of unity and pride. Julie plans to continue on her path toward becoming an educator and instilling in her future students a love of learning by studying Environmental Science with a minor in Education at University of Texas at San Antonio or Stephen F. Austin State University.
GPA: 3.44
High School: Porter High School
Heritage: Mexican
It was in the eighth grade that Julie Serrano chose to join Ready, Set, Teach!, a program for future educators. Since then, her passion for teaching has exponentially grown, and she has become increasingly interested in learning various teaching styles, in particular those that accommodate children with different needs. More recently, Julie joined her school’s TAFE (Texas Association of Future Educator’s) chapter and has since become its President. Being TAFE President has presented her with a series of challenges: having to prepare events, managing the members of her team, and ensuring all deadlines were met. But these challenges also helped her mature and gain invaluable experience. Julie’s passion for education has also emphasized the importance of volunteerism, where she has had the opportunity to meet new people, make friends, and of course help uplift those in her community who are in need. For Julie, helping people always comes first. Every opportunity to help the community, she says, must be seized. But it is only within the context of the issues historically faced by the Latino community that her motivation for education first and foremost arises. It is first a matter of learning about and preserving her own heritage, and second of helping others understand it. Education is an invaluable weapon in this struggle. Because it is through education, she believes, that one can teach others about who you are, what you are capable of doing and growing to be. Education is also vital for the Latino community, because it provides people with an important sense of unity and pride. Julie plans to continue on her path toward becoming an educator and instilling in her future students a love of learning by studying Environmental Science with a minor in Education at University of Texas at San Antonio or Stephen F. Austin State University.
Silver - Lizbeth Barrientos
Major: Art Education
GPA: 4.00
High School: Socorro High School
Heritage: Mexican
It has been her teachers who have ignited Lizbeth’s desire to pursue a career in education. Their consistent support and unwavering commitment to the academic and emotional care of their students are two qualities in particular which Lizbeth aims to emulate, and by all accounts she is doing just that. She is described as diligent, responsible, motivated, empathetic, and altogether exceptional – not to mention her outstanding 4.0 GPA. These are just some of the qualities she has put to great use in her time with TAFE, the Teachers Association for Future Educators, where she has participated in community service in elementary schools. A particular highlight, for Lizbeth, was the literacy night at Escontrias Elementary school where she took care of children whose parents were attending evening workshops. She herself was in charge of planning and facilitating an activity for the children, providing them with art supplies and conducting fun activities. This experience, she says, left her with an immense happiness. Her experience in the Academy of Careers in Education has further challenged and strengthened her commitment to become a teacher. Community service is another activity that has given Lizbeth a greater sense of confidence. For her, it is another great opportunity to both confront her anxieties and improve herself, but also, and more importantly, to help others. Lizbeth is a proud Latina, who loves her cultural heritage and in particular her language. Becoming a Spanish language teacher is one of her dreams and will use art as she believes that art has the power to influence others and change the world for the better, both things she is certain to do. Lizbeth’s next steps are to pursue a degree in Art Education at University of Texas at El Paso, Sul Ross University, or El Paso Community College.
GPA: 4.00
High School: Socorro High School
Heritage: Mexican
It has been her teachers who have ignited Lizbeth’s desire to pursue a career in education. Their consistent support and unwavering commitment to the academic and emotional care of their students are two qualities in particular which Lizbeth aims to emulate, and by all accounts she is doing just that. She is described as diligent, responsible, motivated, empathetic, and altogether exceptional – not to mention her outstanding 4.0 GPA. These are just some of the qualities she has put to great use in her time with TAFE, the Teachers Association for Future Educators, where she has participated in community service in elementary schools. A particular highlight, for Lizbeth, was the literacy night at Escontrias Elementary school where she took care of children whose parents were attending evening workshops. She herself was in charge of planning and facilitating an activity for the children, providing them with art supplies and conducting fun activities. This experience, she says, left her with an immense happiness. Her experience in the Academy of Careers in Education has further challenged and strengthened her commitment to become a teacher. Community service is another activity that has given Lizbeth a greater sense of confidence. For her, it is another great opportunity to both confront her anxieties and improve herself, but also, and more importantly, to help others. Lizbeth is a proud Latina, who loves her cultural heritage and in particular her language. Becoming a Spanish language teacher is one of her dreams and will use art as she believes that art has the power to influence others and change the world for the better, both things she is certain to do. Lizbeth’s next steps are to pursue a degree in Art Education at University of Texas at El Paso, Sul Ross University, or El Paso Community College.
Bronze - Leslie Hernández
Major: Elementary Education
GPA: 4.0
High School: Nikki Rowe High School
Heritage: Mexican
So committed is Leslie Hernández to her education that she attended a dual enrollment college and will be awarded with an Associate of Arts in Teaching by the time she graduates from high school. These past two years have allowed her to experience a vast amount of personal growth as well as inherit an abundance of knowledge that will have a significant impact on the kind of person she will become. Ultimately, she says, these experiences will have served as an important stepping-stone on her journey towards achieving her dreams. One significant component of this dream is volunteerism, with Leslie currently serving as secretary of the Interact Club at her school. An unforgettable highlight of her time in the Club was the chance to interact with diverse peoples and provide them with a sense of motivation to achieve their own goals – something which, she affirms, will suit her well in her future as an educator. Fundamentally, she says, she has a vision of empowering those around her, but she is also committed to empowering herself. During her time as Club secretary, she has had the honor of working and growing as a person in an environment of supportive and hard-working members. Both her leadership and interpersonal skills have been put to the test and have ultimately improved during this time, giving her a greater sense of the importance of giving back to the community, realizing that empowering oneself is inseparable from empowering those around you. This sense of the importance of empowerment, she says, comes from her experience and appreciation of her Hispanic heritage. The people of community always demonstrate their triumph over adversity, displaying a determination to be successful regardless of their circumstances. Ultimately, for Leslie, her generation must continue empowering themselves and those around them to work in a united way and continue to value and preserve their deep roots. And a career in education is the perfect vehicle to accomplish exactly that. Leslie plans to study Elementary Education at University of Texas at Austin, University of the Rio Grande Valley, or Texas State University.
GPA: 4.0
High School: Nikki Rowe High School
Heritage: Mexican
So committed is Leslie Hernández to her education that she attended a dual enrollment college and will be awarded with an Associate of Arts in Teaching by the time she graduates from high school. These past two years have allowed her to experience a vast amount of personal growth as well as inherit an abundance of knowledge that will have a significant impact on the kind of person she will become. Ultimately, she says, these experiences will have served as an important stepping-stone on her journey towards achieving her dreams. One significant component of this dream is volunteerism, with Leslie currently serving as secretary of the Interact Club at her school. An unforgettable highlight of her time in the Club was the chance to interact with diverse peoples and provide them with a sense of motivation to achieve their own goals – something which, she affirms, will suit her well in her future as an educator. Fundamentally, she says, she has a vision of empowering those around her, but she is also committed to empowering herself. During her time as Club secretary, she has had the honor of working and growing as a person in an environment of supportive and hard-working members. Both her leadership and interpersonal skills have been put to the test and have ultimately improved during this time, giving her a greater sense of the importance of giving back to the community, realizing that empowering oneself is inseparable from empowering those around you. This sense of the importance of empowerment, she says, comes from her experience and appreciation of her Hispanic heritage. The people of community always demonstrate their triumph over adversity, displaying a determination to be successful regardless of their circumstances. Ultimately, for Leslie, her generation must continue empowering themselves and those around them to work in a united way and continue to value and preserve their deep roots. And a career in education is the perfect vehicle to accomplish exactly that. Leslie plans to study Elementary Education at University of Texas at Austin, University of the Rio Grande Valley, or Texas State University.
Engineering
Gold - Eva Nance
Major: Electrical and Computer Engineering
GPA: 4.00
High School: John B. Alexander High School
Heritage: Mexican
Surely, a young Eva Nance asked, there was more behind the colorful screen of the computer than what immediately meets the eye? It was this yearning desire to peer behind the screen and to take control over and command the processes of the technology she found around her that first motivated her to get into robotics. Eva initially joined the robotics program in her freshman year, and to this day is perpetually fascinated by the subject. Watching a piece of robotics come to life, she says, continues to fill her with excitement and amazement. Her dedication has resulted in outstanding academic achievements. In addition to having an impressive GPA of 4.0, Eva has also been Texas Best Robotics state finalist every year since her freshman year, as well as a state qualifier for HOSA, and top of the class in TAMIU TexPrep for three years. Her achievements are certainly remarkable, but when you couple those with her unwavering determination and proven leadership you have, as her teachers have attested, the makings of a model for her generation. Eva credits her parents who have instilled within her the importance of giving back to the community and propelling forward the project of humanity. This drive to contribute and give back to those around her have influenced her in significant ways, motivating her to participate in recycling programs at school, and spend weekends volunteering through her church. Additionally, the importance of upliftment has given her an important sense of the need for equality. Although, she says, much progress has been made in how Latinx people have been accepted in the United States, her generation must continue to empower themselves and those of their community and realize their potential and value. Eva is fast on her way to becoming a role model, and her plans to study Electrical and Computer Engineering at University of Texas at Austin, Texas A&M University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology are sure to get her there even faster
GPA: 4.00
High School: John B. Alexander High School
Heritage: Mexican
Surely, a young Eva Nance asked, there was more behind the colorful screen of the computer than what immediately meets the eye? It was this yearning desire to peer behind the screen and to take control over and command the processes of the technology she found around her that first motivated her to get into robotics. Eva initially joined the robotics program in her freshman year, and to this day is perpetually fascinated by the subject. Watching a piece of robotics come to life, she says, continues to fill her with excitement and amazement. Her dedication has resulted in outstanding academic achievements. In addition to having an impressive GPA of 4.0, Eva has also been Texas Best Robotics state finalist every year since her freshman year, as well as a state qualifier for HOSA, and top of the class in TAMIU TexPrep for three years. Her achievements are certainly remarkable, but when you couple those with her unwavering determination and proven leadership you have, as her teachers have attested, the makings of a model for her generation. Eva credits her parents who have instilled within her the importance of giving back to the community and propelling forward the project of humanity. This drive to contribute and give back to those around her have influenced her in significant ways, motivating her to participate in recycling programs at school, and spend weekends volunteering through her church. Additionally, the importance of upliftment has given her an important sense of the need for equality. Although, she says, much progress has been made in how Latinx people have been accepted in the United States, her generation must continue to empower themselves and those of their community and realize their potential and value. Eva is fast on her way to becoming a role model, and her plans to study Electrical and Computer Engineering at University of Texas at Austin, Texas A&M University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology are sure to get her there even faster
Silver - Agustín Valdés Martínez
Major: Electrical Engineering and Computer Science
GPA: 4.00
High School: Judson Early College Academy
Heritage: Mexican
Childlike curiosity is a marvelous thing – and it is also what led Agustin Valdés Martínez down the engineering rabbit hole. It began with a radio, which he dissembled into its individual parts. Since then, he has built calculators, speakers, and a multimeter for reading circuit data. During his time in high school, Agustin has consistently distinguished himself as an outstanding, committed, and kind class leader, with sharp academic ability and a strong work ethic. His teachers have admired his ability to perform at an unbelievable level for someone his age, which has resulted in his impressive GPA of 4.0, as well as being recognized as a College Board National Hispanic Scholar and a National Merit Scholar, and achieving first 1st place in both the Think Award FIRST Tech Challenge Robot and the Economics Academic Decathlon in 2020. But besides these individual accomplishments, it is his sense of the importance of community that sets him apart. The awards and the passion with which they have been pursued, Agustin explains, is always linked to a common ‘we’. His excitement for robotics, and his participation in their planning and building is always done as part of a collective ‘we’ and for a common goal. Agustin imagines an exciting future working with a diverse and talented group of students all dedicated to tackling and solving the worlds most daunting problems. The commitment to a common goal, he says, stems from a gratitude for the blessings that one has, and an acknowledgement for the innate responsibility each one of us have for helping others. This sense of responsibility is also linked to an appreciation for his own heritage. He hopes to be a role model of kids in his community, who may see that the future is bright and theirs for the taking. Agustin’s future is certainly bright, and he plans to study Electrical Engineering and Computer Science at Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Carnegie Mellon University, or University of Texas at Austin.
GPA: 4.00
High School: Judson Early College Academy
Heritage: Mexican
Childlike curiosity is a marvelous thing – and it is also what led Agustin Valdés Martínez down the engineering rabbit hole. It began with a radio, which he dissembled into its individual parts. Since then, he has built calculators, speakers, and a multimeter for reading circuit data. During his time in high school, Agustin has consistently distinguished himself as an outstanding, committed, and kind class leader, with sharp academic ability and a strong work ethic. His teachers have admired his ability to perform at an unbelievable level for someone his age, which has resulted in his impressive GPA of 4.0, as well as being recognized as a College Board National Hispanic Scholar and a National Merit Scholar, and achieving first 1st place in both the Think Award FIRST Tech Challenge Robot and the Economics Academic Decathlon in 2020. But besides these individual accomplishments, it is his sense of the importance of community that sets him apart. The awards and the passion with which they have been pursued, Agustin explains, is always linked to a common ‘we’. His excitement for robotics, and his participation in their planning and building is always done as part of a collective ‘we’ and for a common goal. Agustin imagines an exciting future working with a diverse and talented group of students all dedicated to tackling and solving the worlds most daunting problems. The commitment to a common goal, he says, stems from a gratitude for the blessings that one has, and an acknowledgement for the innate responsibility each one of us have for helping others. This sense of responsibility is also linked to an appreciation for his own heritage. He hopes to be a role model of kids in his community, who may see that the future is bright and theirs for the taking. Agustin’s future is certainly bright, and he plans to study Electrical Engineering and Computer Science at Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Carnegie Mellon University, or University of Texas at Austin.
Bronze - Cristian Gualy
Major: Mechanical Engineering
GPA: 4.00
High School: Houston Christian High School
Heritage: Colombian
For Cristian Gualy, mechanical engineering is fascinating because of its combination and balance between mathematics and applied science, between mechanical processes and creative and innovative thinking. An appreciation for these practices has served him well while participating in his school’s Robotics Club, the NASA Texas High School Aerospace Program, and the Distinguished Scholars Program. In each, he has been afforded the chance to hone and improve upon skills relating to the design, research, composition, and manufacturing phases of engineering. His motivation to improve has led him to be acknowledged with a number of outstanding awards, including AP Scholar with Honor Award, the Betty Butler Distinguished Scholar Award, as well as being recognized as a National Merit Scholar, a NASA Texas High School Aerospace Scholar, and a Senior Distinguished Scholar. Despite these achievements, Cristian always remains aware of just how fortunate he is. He laments the fact that access to technology and STEM-related materials continues to be the biggest impediment in low-income communities. While efforts have been made to rectify this issue, Cristian believes he has a responsibility to do something as well. In response, he ran a service project for two and a half years through the Houston Christian chapter of the National Honor Society in partnership with a local community center called Spring Spirit, where he helped educate children and teenagers from underprivileged families. He believes that his sense of the importance of giving back to others stems from his Hispanic heritage and the strong sense of family that has been instilled in him. Education, he declares, especially in innovative fields like engineering, plays a crucial role in healing societal issues, by reducing racial and class disparities. Engineering not only improves the economic conditions of those who pursue it as a career, but also improves the lives of all members of one’s community. It’s no surprise that Cristian is on a brightly lit path, and his future as an engineer will only make the world and his community better. He plans to study Mechanical Engineering at Princeton University, University of Pennsylvania, or University of Texas at Austin.
GPA: 4.00
High School: Houston Christian High School
Heritage: Colombian
For Cristian Gualy, mechanical engineering is fascinating because of its combination and balance between mathematics and applied science, between mechanical processes and creative and innovative thinking. An appreciation for these practices has served him well while participating in his school’s Robotics Club, the NASA Texas High School Aerospace Program, and the Distinguished Scholars Program. In each, he has been afforded the chance to hone and improve upon skills relating to the design, research, composition, and manufacturing phases of engineering. His motivation to improve has led him to be acknowledged with a number of outstanding awards, including AP Scholar with Honor Award, the Betty Butler Distinguished Scholar Award, as well as being recognized as a National Merit Scholar, a NASA Texas High School Aerospace Scholar, and a Senior Distinguished Scholar. Despite these achievements, Cristian always remains aware of just how fortunate he is. He laments the fact that access to technology and STEM-related materials continues to be the biggest impediment in low-income communities. While efforts have been made to rectify this issue, Cristian believes he has a responsibility to do something as well. In response, he ran a service project for two and a half years through the Houston Christian chapter of the National Honor Society in partnership with a local community center called Spring Spirit, where he helped educate children and teenagers from underprivileged families. He believes that his sense of the importance of giving back to others stems from his Hispanic heritage and the strong sense of family that has been instilled in him. Education, he declares, especially in innovative fields like engineering, plays a crucial role in healing societal issues, by reducing racial and class disparities. Engineering not only improves the economic conditions of those who pursue it as a career, but also improves the lives of all members of one’s community. It’s no surprise that Cristian is on a brightly lit path, and his future as an engineer will only make the world and his community better. He plans to study Mechanical Engineering at Princeton University, University of Pennsylvania, or University of Texas at Austin.
Entrepreneurship
Gold - Vanessa Baquerizo
Major: Business Management
GPA: 4.00
High School: Cypress Woods High School
Heritage: Ecuadorian
The greatest achievement for an entrepreneur, says Vanessa Baquerizo, is to achieve something bigger than oneself, to have the chance to do something to make the world a better place. This is her own goal: to connect with people around the world and provide creative and innovate solutions to humanity’s greatest problems. Vanessa has already participated in countless community service projects. She has raised money for the project "Silla Roja" to help underprivileged children gain access to quality education; she has visited and volunteered at schools in poorer neighborhoods in Ecuador; and more recently, she organized a GoFundMe which raised $3080 for Romina, a young girl who needed a liver transplant. Her latest project was MUNiacs, an organization that aimed to provide Model UN delegates from around the word with free online training. It was here that Vanessa faced her most significant challenges and simultaneously learned some of the most important lessons. Leading MUNiacs, says Vanessa, taught her the importance of perseverance no matter how many difficulties one may face. In addition, it helped her realize the importance of teamwork and that the best quality of a leader was to know when to ask for help. These qualities are what have led to Vanessa achieving an outstanding GPA of 4.0 and being recognized as a National Hispanic Scholar and CORPEDUCAR Model UN Best Delegate. Beyond that, she has also received the highest honor a student at Delta School can obtain: The San Josemaria award for her outstanding character reflecting the main values of the school: joyfulness, creativity, courage, freedom, caring and service. Vanessa always demonstrates a positive attitude. Although sometimes assumed to seem shy and introvertive, she is widely regarded as an outstanding, secure, and reliable young women who is on a clear path to achieving her goals in the future. Those goals also include her pursuing a degree in Business Management at Notre Dame University, Rice University, or University of Texas at Austin.
GPA: 4.00
High School: Cypress Woods High School
Heritage: Ecuadorian
The greatest achievement for an entrepreneur, says Vanessa Baquerizo, is to achieve something bigger than oneself, to have the chance to do something to make the world a better place. This is her own goal: to connect with people around the world and provide creative and innovate solutions to humanity’s greatest problems. Vanessa has already participated in countless community service projects. She has raised money for the project "Silla Roja" to help underprivileged children gain access to quality education; she has visited and volunteered at schools in poorer neighborhoods in Ecuador; and more recently, she organized a GoFundMe which raised $3080 for Romina, a young girl who needed a liver transplant. Her latest project was MUNiacs, an organization that aimed to provide Model UN delegates from around the word with free online training. It was here that Vanessa faced her most significant challenges and simultaneously learned some of the most important lessons. Leading MUNiacs, says Vanessa, taught her the importance of perseverance no matter how many difficulties one may face. In addition, it helped her realize the importance of teamwork and that the best quality of a leader was to know when to ask for help. These qualities are what have led to Vanessa achieving an outstanding GPA of 4.0 and being recognized as a National Hispanic Scholar and CORPEDUCAR Model UN Best Delegate. Beyond that, she has also received the highest honor a student at Delta School can obtain: The San Josemaria award for her outstanding character reflecting the main values of the school: joyfulness, creativity, courage, freedom, caring and service. Vanessa always demonstrates a positive attitude. Although sometimes assumed to seem shy and introvertive, she is widely regarded as an outstanding, secure, and reliable young women who is on a clear path to achieving her goals in the future. Those goals also include her pursuing a degree in Business Management at Notre Dame University, Rice University, or University of Texas at Austin.
Silver - Isabella Jiménez
Major: Business
GPA: 3.91
High School: Johnson High School
Heritage: Mexican
As a Mayor’s Fitness Council ambassador, Isabella Jiménez was motivated to create something that would not only teach the importance of nutrition but would also be fun and stimulating for kids. In response, she developed the app MY FUN FOOD, which exposed her to and taught her invaluable lessons about the world of business. What has been most rewarding through this process, she says, are the relationships she was able to build with her colleagues and the wider community, each of whom contributed to the app’s development and success. Just as an app’s value cannot be associated with a single person or component but is instead always communal, she too has learned that a leader’s best qualities are linked to their ability for patience and empathy. Always motivated to help others, Isabella has volunteered in her community with several agencies, serving in a diverse number of areas such as animal services, healthcare, and hunger and poverty alleviation. She says that what inspires her most to give back is feeling a sense of pride and purpose within her community. When developing her app, for example, she faced several significant challenges: where to start, how to develop, and how to distribute. She was young and unaware of the necessary processes behind app building, but her community provided her with an immense amount of support, offering feedback on how her app could be beneficial for them, as well as sharing healthy family recipes that would be included in it. Additionally, an important part of her motivation for building the app came from learning the health statistics within the Latino community. Her hope is that by sharing her story with younger kids, it will not only motivate them to eat healthier but also to encourage and empower a generation to pursue their ideas and realize their dreams. Her advice is unwavering: stick to your vision, and don’t be afraid of asking your community for input and support. And she takes the same advice herself. Isabella plans to continue on her professional and academic journey by studying Business at Southern Methodist University, University of Texas at Austin Business Honors, or Stanford University.
GPA: 3.91
High School: Johnson High School
Heritage: Mexican
As a Mayor’s Fitness Council ambassador, Isabella Jiménez was motivated to create something that would not only teach the importance of nutrition but would also be fun and stimulating for kids. In response, she developed the app MY FUN FOOD, which exposed her to and taught her invaluable lessons about the world of business. What has been most rewarding through this process, she says, are the relationships she was able to build with her colleagues and the wider community, each of whom contributed to the app’s development and success. Just as an app’s value cannot be associated with a single person or component but is instead always communal, she too has learned that a leader’s best qualities are linked to their ability for patience and empathy. Always motivated to help others, Isabella has volunteered in her community with several agencies, serving in a diverse number of areas such as animal services, healthcare, and hunger and poverty alleviation. She says that what inspires her most to give back is feeling a sense of pride and purpose within her community. When developing her app, for example, she faced several significant challenges: where to start, how to develop, and how to distribute. She was young and unaware of the necessary processes behind app building, but her community provided her with an immense amount of support, offering feedback on how her app could be beneficial for them, as well as sharing healthy family recipes that would be included in it. Additionally, an important part of her motivation for building the app came from learning the health statistics within the Latino community. Her hope is that by sharing her story with younger kids, it will not only motivate them to eat healthier but also to encourage and empower a generation to pursue their ideas and realize their dreams. Her advice is unwavering: stick to your vision, and don’t be afraid of asking your community for input and support. And she takes the same advice herself. Isabella plans to continue on her professional and academic journey by studying Business at Southern Methodist University, University of Texas at Austin Business Honors, or Stanford University.
Bronze - Itzel De León
Major: Business Management or Business Administration
GPA: 4.00
High School: Legacy of Educational Excellence High School
Heritage: Mexican
Itzel De León’s passion for entrepreneurship fully blossomed during her Human Resources internship with the City of San Antonio. There she was given the opportunity to manage and organize an event where employees could improve upon their current resumes and better their future careers with coaching and mock interviews. It was a resounding success! Isabella managed to assist over 50 people in improving their career materials and becoming better prepared for their futures. But it is business management where Itzel’s true passion lies. Known for her kindness, compassion, and integrity, she has a natural aptitude for taking responsibility and thriving under pressure. As a freshman Itzel wanted to learn about the different organizations available on campus that she could involve herself in, and she approached each new challenge with grace, learning more about herself in the process. She loves the opportunity to collaborate with others in order to achieve a common goal and aims to devote her life to the well-being of people, as she feels most fulfilled being the person people turn to when needing guidance, comfort, or help. A born leader, Itzel has the perfect qualities to realize her dreams. On her journey in Business Management, Itzel has actively participated in Future Business Leaders of America and served as the vice president for the organization. As a member and Vice President, she has participated in numerous competitions that have further advanced her skills in communication. She has also received several awards and commendations along the way, including ranking first in business communications competitions and being granted the EnCORE Award for Human Resources. Her volunteer work has also taught her the importance of planning and perseverance, as well as honing her business skills. Coordinating community events is one of her biggest passions and it has given her a strong base from which to pursue a successful career in business management. Itzel’s next steps – and her future success – are clear: pursue a degree in Business Management or Business Administration at University of Southern California (USC), University of Texas at Austin, or University of Pennsylvania.
GPA: 4.00
High School: Legacy of Educational Excellence High School
Heritage: Mexican
Itzel De León’s passion for entrepreneurship fully blossomed during her Human Resources internship with the City of San Antonio. There she was given the opportunity to manage and organize an event where employees could improve upon their current resumes and better their future careers with coaching and mock interviews. It was a resounding success! Isabella managed to assist over 50 people in improving their career materials and becoming better prepared for their futures. But it is business management where Itzel’s true passion lies. Known for her kindness, compassion, and integrity, she has a natural aptitude for taking responsibility and thriving under pressure. As a freshman Itzel wanted to learn about the different organizations available on campus that she could involve herself in, and she approached each new challenge with grace, learning more about herself in the process. She loves the opportunity to collaborate with others in order to achieve a common goal and aims to devote her life to the well-being of people, as she feels most fulfilled being the person people turn to when needing guidance, comfort, or help. A born leader, Itzel has the perfect qualities to realize her dreams. On her journey in Business Management, Itzel has actively participated in Future Business Leaders of America and served as the vice president for the organization. As a member and Vice President, she has participated in numerous competitions that have further advanced her skills in communication. She has also received several awards and commendations along the way, including ranking first in business communications competitions and being granted the EnCORE Award for Human Resources. Her volunteer work has also taught her the importance of planning and perseverance, as well as honing her business skills. Coordinating community events is one of her biggest passions and it has given her a strong base from which to pursue a successful career in business management. Itzel’s next steps – and her future success – are clear: pursue a degree in Business Management or Business Administration at University of Southern California (USC), University of Texas at Austin, or University of Pennsylvania.
Healthcare & Science
Gold - Amiel Katz
Major: Public/Global Health or Statistics/Data Science
GPA: 4.00
High School: Bellaire Senior High School
Heritage: Salvadorian
During his internship in a pediatric clinic, Amiel Katz was exposed to the shortcomings in healthcare provision. She realized there and then that she did not want to be a physician if it meant refusing anyone’s right to healthcare. This concern for health inequality motivated her to begin volunteering with Partners in Health (PIH), a medical nonprofit organization that provides quality care to those living in poverty. Since joining PIH, Amiel has been a standout leader, with her team excelling in advocating with Members of Congress for effective health programs, fundraising for health care in impoverished countries, and educating her peers and the broader community about health inequalities. It is this first-hand experience with the shortcomings of healthcare and her involvement with PIH that has fueled her desire to study global health and medicine. Driven by a deep sense of responsibility for others, Amiel has consistently strived to better understand the issues relating to health care through ardent participation in health policy, public health debates, community organizing, legislative advocacy, and political-economic approaches to inequality. Additionally, it is her strong connection to and care for her Latino community that motivates her. Healthcare, she believes, must be accessible to all. Without it, people will not be able to have meaningful upward socioeconomic mobility. For Itzel, it is all of our duties to make healthcare affordable to all. Itzel is committed to both demanding change and achieving it and thus creating the path for others to live better lives. Amiel’s exceptional interpersonal and relational skills, courage, and empathetic drive to serve her community and those most in need make her a most remarkable young woman. She plans to continue on her journey by studying Public/Global Health or Statistics/Data Science at Yale University, Princeton University, or Georgetown University.
GPA: 4.00
High School: Bellaire Senior High School
Heritage: Salvadorian
During his internship in a pediatric clinic, Amiel Katz was exposed to the shortcomings in healthcare provision. She realized there and then that she did not want to be a physician if it meant refusing anyone’s right to healthcare. This concern for health inequality motivated her to begin volunteering with Partners in Health (PIH), a medical nonprofit organization that provides quality care to those living in poverty. Since joining PIH, Amiel has been a standout leader, with her team excelling in advocating with Members of Congress for effective health programs, fundraising for health care in impoverished countries, and educating her peers and the broader community about health inequalities. It is this first-hand experience with the shortcomings of healthcare and her involvement with PIH that has fueled her desire to study global health and medicine. Driven by a deep sense of responsibility for others, Amiel has consistently strived to better understand the issues relating to health care through ardent participation in health policy, public health debates, community organizing, legislative advocacy, and political-economic approaches to inequality. Additionally, it is her strong connection to and care for her Latino community that motivates her. Healthcare, she believes, must be accessible to all. Without it, people will not be able to have meaningful upward socioeconomic mobility. For Itzel, it is all of our duties to make healthcare affordable to all. Itzel is committed to both demanding change and achieving it and thus creating the path for others to live better lives. Amiel’s exceptional interpersonal and relational skills, courage, and empathetic drive to serve her community and those most in need make her a most remarkable young woman. She plans to continue on her journey by studying Public/Global Health or Statistics/Data Science at Yale University, Princeton University, or Georgetown University.
Silver - Eleanor Schoenbrun
Major: Biopsychology with a concentration in Cognitive Science
GPA: 4.00
High School: Franklin High School
Heritage: Mexican
At eight years-old, Eleanor knew what she wanted to do with her life. She would spend it helping others. Ever since, she has thrown herself into the service of others, founding two nationally recognized service projects – Pennies FUR Pets and Kans for Kids – and establishing a sustainable food pantry. After being exposed to STEM through various programs and self-research, she found her way into medicine, and sees it as a rewarding career that she plans to see to fruition. Eleanor believes that the best way for her to make a difference in people’s lives is by caring for them, and she hopes to pursue a career in dermatology. To prepare, she has taken a range of AP classes, including AP Psychology, and is a member of the Health Occupation Students Association (HOSA). She has also read 20 medical novels that discuss theories, historical events, or people impacted in the medical field. In the not-so-distant future, she’ll be one of the people named in books just like the ones that inspired her. Eleanor’s interests span a wide range of activities, but community service is especially important to her. Apart from founding the two service projects, she is also a Make A Difference Day Winner, National Parent Teacher Association Outstanding Youth Advocate, Points of Light National Youth Advisory Council Member, and this year’s Student Council President and National Honor Society officer. According to Eleanor, giving back is like a phantom limb – though it may not be observable, it is an integral part of her. Hard work pays off for Eleanor. In fact, her teachers claim that she is one of the best students to ever come through the halls of Franklin High School. Despite a brutal schedule, rigorous coursework, and a range of extracurricular activities, she maintains a cheerful outlook, optimistic demeanor, and intense diligence. Her future academic trajectory is steep, but no challenge is too large for someone of Eleanor’s determination. She plans to study Biopsychology with a concentration in Cognitive Science at Yale University, Brown University, or Dartmouth College.
GPA: 4.00
High School: Franklin High School
Heritage: Mexican
At eight years-old, Eleanor knew what she wanted to do with her life. She would spend it helping others. Ever since, she has thrown herself into the service of others, founding two nationally recognized service projects – Pennies FUR Pets and Kans for Kids – and establishing a sustainable food pantry. After being exposed to STEM through various programs and self-research, she found her way into medicine, and sees it as a rewarding career that she plans to see to fruition. Eleanor believes that the best way for her to make a difference in people’s lives is by caring for them, and she hopes to pursue a career in dermatology. To prepare, she has taken a range of AP classes, including AP Psychology, and is a member of the Health Occupation Students Association (HOSA). She has also read 20 medical novels that discuss theories, historical events, or people impacted in the medical field. In the not-so-distant future, she’ll be one of the people named in books just like the ones that inspired her. Eleanor’s interests span a wide range of activities, but community service is especially important to her. Apart from founding the two service projects, she is also a Make A Difference Day Winner, National Parent Teacher Association Outstanding Youth Advocate, Points of Light National Youth Advisory Council Member, and this year’s Student Council President and National Honor Society officer. According to Eleanor, giving back is like a phantom limb – though it may not be observable, it is an integral part of her. Hard work pays off for Eleanor. In fact, her teachers claim that she is one of the best students to ever come through the halls of Franklin High School. Despite a brutal schedule, rigorous coursework, and a range of extracurricular activities, she maintains a cheerful outlook, optimistic demeanor, and intense diligence. Her future academic trajectory is steep, but no challenge is too large for someone of Eleanor’s determination. She plans to study Biopsychology with a concentration in Cognitive Science at Yale University, Brown University, or Dartmouth College.
Bronze - Izumi Vázquez
Major: Human Biology or Health and Societies with a minor in Spanish or History
GPA: 3.95
High School: Health Careers High School
Heritage: Mexican
Izumi Haruko’s interest in the field of medicine is deeply personal. After witnessing her sister trudge through health issues, she witnessed a duality within healthcare: the quality of care that medical professionals were capable of doling out, as well as the inaccessibility to care that so many people face. This has inspired her to pursue a career in medicine so that one day she may be able to bring the same quality of care her sister received to others, especially those in marginalized groups within her and other communities. To prepare for the rigors of a career in medicine, Izumi trained to champion the Medical Assisting category at HOSA internationals and shadowed physicians at two hospitals during clinical rotations in her junior year. Captivated by the way healthcare workers bridged medicine and humanity, she realized that while technical knowledge is essential, it is the ability to connect that makes an exceptional physician. And an exceptional physician, she is bound to make. In addition to her hands-on training, which also included earning her Basic Life Support Certification, completing 380 hours of hospital volunteer work, and enrolling in a course to become a Certified Clinical Medical Assistant, she is also an exceptional student and maintains a 3.95 GPA amid punishing coursework. Other people are one of Izumi’s primary motivations for joining the healthcare field, and her commitment to them can also be seen in her activity within the community. At nearby Rudder Middle School, she mentors younger students in STEM, and she works with the Hard Hats for Little Heads bicycle helmet giveaway program, as well as designing social media posts for Joey’s Wings, a nonprofit organization. Raising awareness is a large part of medical advocacy, and Izumi is no stranger to it. This past year, she and her sister hand-folded a 2,000-origami paper crane installation for University Hospital in honor of the approximate number of children and adolescents who pass away from cancer annually. Izumi’s future is bright. Teachers call her a model student with countless strengths, including unending generosity. She plans to study Human Biology or Health and Societies with a minor in Spanish or History at University of Texas at San Antonio, Baylor University, or University of Texas at Austin
GPA: 3.95
High School: Health Careers High School
Heritage: Mexican
Izumi Haruko’s interest in the field of medicine is deeply personal. After witnessing her sister trudge through health issues, she witnessed a duality within healthcare: the quality of care that medical professionals were capable of doling out, as well as the inaccessibility to care that so many people face. This has inspired her to pursue a career in medicine so that one day she may be able to bring the same quality of care her sister received to others, especially those in marginalized groups within her and other communities. To prepare for the rigors of a career in medicine, Izumi trained to champion the Medical Assisting category at HOSA internationals and shadowed physicians at two hospitals during clinical rotations in her junior year. Captivated by the way healthcare workers bridged medicine and humanity, she realized that while technical knowledge is essential, it is the ability to connect that makes an exceptional physician. And an exceptional physician, she is bound to make. In addition to her hands-on training, which also included earning her Basic Life Support Certification, completing 380 hours of hospital volunteer work, and enrolling in a course to become a Certified Clinical Medical Assistant, she is also an exceptional student and maintains a 3.95 GPA amid punishing coursework. Other people are one of Izumi’s primary motivations for joining the healthcare field, and her commitment to them can also be seen in her activity within the community. At nearby Rudder Middle School, she mentors younger students in STEM, and she works with the Hard Hats for Little Heads bicycle helmet giveaway program, as well as designing social media posts for Joey’s Wings, a nonprofit organization. Raising awareness is a large part of medical advocacy, and Izumi is no stranger to it. This past year, she and her sister hand-folded a 2,000-origami paper crane installation for University Hospital in honor of the approximate number of children and adolescents who pass away from cancer annually. Izumi’s future is bright. Teachers call her a model student with countless strengths, including unending generosity. She plans to study Human Biology or Health and Societies with a minor in Spanish or History at University of Texas at San Antonio, Baylor University, or University of Texas at Austin
Media & Entertainment
Gold - Bryan Albarrán
Major: Radio-Television-Film (RTF) with a concentration in Cinematography
GPA: 4.00
High School: J. Frank Dobie High School
Heritage: Mexican
The language of visuals is everywhere. Bryan Albarrán knows this better than anyone. In fact, he’s been involved in visual arts since his screen debut taking his first shaky steps on an old home video recorded by his dad’s famous VHS camcorder, which accompanied any family activity. For Bryan, film’s power of stimulating unconventional thinking is what motivates him to major in Radio-Television-Film with a concentration in cinematography and editing. He is also a keen observer – as any quality artist should be – and after noticing advertisements about E-cigarettes on the rise, encouraging impressionable adolescent consumers to socialize outside their homes amid the pandemic, he felt compelled to do something. This summer, he directed a short vaping film in response – using potent imagery of fruit being swarmed by mosquitos to insinuate that the media has hidden agendas in advertising. His film was showcased on the various social media accounts of the Bay Area Council on Drugs & Alcohol. This is just one of many examples of Bryan’s tenacity and determination. According to his English teacher, Bryan ranks among the most talented, unique, and well-rounded students that have graced the halls of J. Frank Dobie High School. Artistically gifted, he was awarded a “4”, the highest possible score, for a sculpture he created for the Visual Arts Scholastic Event and placed 7th out of over 400 applicants at the Pasadena Livestock Show and Rodeo, auctioning off his piece for $460. Bryan’s academic record also speaks for itself. He ranks in the top 1% of his 1,000+ student graduating class and maintains a 4.0 GPA with a host of upper-level courses. On top of these achievements, he also dedicates himself to others and his community, serving as the Key Club’s Webmaster, the first sophomore to ever hold an officer’s position in his school’s history. Bryan has amassed hundreds of volunteer hours, speaks both English and Spanish fluently, and is attempting to master his third language by teaching himself Korean. Someone of this caliber is sure to succeed in whatever he sets his mind to. For Bryan, that’s studying Radio-Television-Film at University of Texas at Austin, University of Houston, or the University of Texas at San Antonio.
GPA: 4.00
High School: J. Frank Dobie High School
Heritage: Mexican
The language of visuals is everywhere. Bryan Albarrán knows this better than anyone. In fact, he’s been involved in visual arts since his screen debut taking his first shaky steps on an old home video recorded by his dad’s famous VHS camcorder, which accompanied any family activity. For Bryan, film’s power of stimulating unconventional thinking is what motivates him to major in Radio-Television-Film with a concentration in cinematography and editing. He is also a keen observer – as any quality artist should be – and after noticing advertisements about E-cigarettes on the rise, encouraging impressionable adolescent consumers to socialize outside their homes amid the pandemic, he felt compelled to do something. This summer, he directed a short vaping film in response – using potent imagery of fruit being swarmed by mosquitos to insinuate that the media has hidden agendas in advertising. His film was showcased on the various social media accounts of the Bay Area Council on Drugs & Alcohol. This is just one of many examples of Bryan’s tenacity and determination. According to his English teacher, Bryan ranks among the most talented, unique, and well-rounded students that have graced the halls of J. Frank Dobie High School. Artistically gifted, he was awarded a “4”, the highest possible score, for a sculpture he created for the Visual Arts Scholastic Event and placed 7th out of over 400 applicants at the Pasadena Livestock Show and Rodeo, auctioning off his piece for $460. Bryan’s academic record also speaks for itself. He ranks in the top 1% of his 1,000+ student graduating class and maintains a 4.0 GPA with a host of upper-level courses. On top of these achievements, he also dedicates himself to others and his community, serving as the Key Club’s Webmaster, the first sophomore to ever hold an officer’s position in his school’s history. Bryan has amassed hundreds of volunteer hours, speaks both English and Spanish fluently, and is attempting to master his third language by teaching himself Korean. Someone of this caliber is sure to succeed in whatever he sets his mind to. For Bryan, that’s studying Radio-Television-Film at University of Texas at Austin, University of Houston, or the University of Texas at San Antonio.
Silver - Estela Riera-Vales
Major: Film and Television with a minor in Spanish
GPA: 4.00
High School: College Station High School
Heritage: Spanish and Bolivian
Estela Riera-Vales has always loved movies, short films and music videos. And fortunately, she has a knack for creating them, as well, so when she came across the opportunity to take a course about Audio Video Production, she leapt at it. Throughout the class, she filmed football games, school pep rallies, theater productions, and created her own short films, news story segments and YouTube gameshow content. That experience caused what she characterizes as a chain reaction leading her to take several Career in Technologies and Arts classes, such as Graphic Design, 3D Animation, and Commercial Photography. Her passion intensified. Estela loves the idea of experimenting with different creative styles and combining them in new ways to present media content. Always eager to learn more, Estela’s impressiveness extends beyond the arts. According to her former physics teacher, she is the most mature and disciplined young woman in her grade. With an extraordinary sense of self-awareness and a diligent work ethic, she has managed to maintain a perfect 4.0 GPA amid grueling coursework and extracurricular requirements. Estela exudes exceptionalism both, within and outside the classroom. Many of her peers know her for her confidence and talent as part of the school dance team, as well as her work in the Audio Video Production group. Driven by passion and exuding joy and natural leadership, she serves as a role model in both her school, as well as the community at large. In addition to her activities, Estela is a proud Latina and loves to share her culture with her friends and peers. According to her, her diverse background has taught her to better appreciate equity, empathy, and tolerance toward all people. Diversity inspires creativity, understanding, innovation, and opportunity, and what better mode of transporting these ideas than Film and Television. That’s what Estela has in mind, as she hopes to study Film and Television and minor in Spanish at New York University, University of Texas at Austin, or University of Southern California.
GPA: 4.00
High School: College Station High School
Heritage: Spanish and Bolivian
Estela Riera-Vales has always loved movies, short films and music videos. And fortunately, she has a knack for creating them, as well, so when she came across the opportunity to take a course about Audio Video Production, she leapt at it. Throughout the class, she filmed football games, school pep rallies, theater productions, and created her own short films, news story segments and YouTube gameshow content. That experience caused what she characterizes as a chain reaction leading her to take several Career in Technologies and Arts classes, such as Graphic Design, 3D Animation, and Commercial Photography. Her passion intensified. Estela loves the idea of experimenting with different creative styles and combining them in new ways to present media content. Always eager to learn more, Estela’s impressiveness extends beyond the arts. According to her former physics teacher, she is the most mature and disciplined young woman in her grade. With an extraordinary sense of self-awareness and a diligent work ethic, she has managed to maintain a perfect 4.0 GPA amid grueling coursework and extracurricular requirements. Estela exudes exceptionalism both, within and outside the classroom. Many of her peers know her for her confidence and talent as part of the school dance team, as well as her work in the Audio Video Production group. Driven by passion and exuding joy and natural leadership, she serves as a role model in both her school, as well as the community at large. In addition to her activities, Estela is a proud Latina and loves to share her culture with her friends and peers. According to her, her diverse background has taught her to better appreciate equity, empathy, and tolerance toward all people. Diversity inspires creativity, understanding, innovation, and opportunity, and what better mode of transporting these ideas than Film and Television. That’s what Estela has in mind, as she hopes to study Film and Television and minor in Spanish at New York University, University of Texas at Austin, or University of Southern California.
Bronze - Yzette Torres
Major: Forensic Science
GPA: 3.40
High School: Carnegie Vanguard High School
Heritage: Mexican
Practice. Dance. Record. Post. It’s a pattern Yzette Torres has followed over the past three years, as she has grown her Instagram following to close to one hundred thousand viewers weekly. K-Pop dance covers are her specialty, and her followers, as well as thousands of other people who come across her videos know it. For many high school students, social media is a means of showcasing their lives, but for Yzette, it’s far more than that. It’s a platform to share her art. On top of her dance videos, Yzette also works with her brother photographing weddings, and turns out she has quite the eye for that, as well. Her photography has been showcased at the Museum of Fine Arts Houston exhibit for two years back-to-back, capturing the side of the Latino community that isn’t always shown in the media: fondness, joy, and love. Yzette’s passions go beyond the arts as well, though she tries to find ways to incorporate it as much as possible. She is also deeply committed to her community, and last year, she conducted an extensive year-long research project that examined the impact of sex trafficking in her Houston community, working alongside police officers, who serve as first responders for a sex trafficking hotline. Yzette was passionate about her project and in an attempt to raise awareness and mitigate the tragedy of self-trafficking, she created Chapstick packaging with the hotline number hidden between a double-layered nutrition facts label, which was distributed by a local non-profit. Collaborating with a nonprofit hasn’t been her only partnership. She has also worked directly with Nike promoting their classic shoes, with Disney by promoting their new trading card app, and with College Board, encouraging seniors to apply for scholarships. Collaborating with big brands have given Yzette an insight into what the entertainment and business industry is like, and she has adored it. Her future is bright, and Yzette is surely on her way to a successful career. She plans to study Forensic Science at Texas A&M University, University of Texas, or the University of Houston.
GPA: 3.40
High School: Carnegie Vanguard High School
Heritage: Mexican
Practice. Dance. Record. Post. It’s a pattern Yzette Torres has followed over the past three years, as she has grown her Instagram following to close to one hundred thousand viewers weekly. K-Pop dance covers are her specialty, and her followers, as well as thousands of other people who come across her videos know it. For many high school students, social media is a means of showcasing their lives, but for Yzette, it’s far more than that. It’s a platform to share her art. On top of her dance videos, Yzette also works with her brother photographing weddings, and turns out she has quite the eye for that, as well. Her photography has been showcased at the Museum of Fine Arts Houston exhibit for two years back-to-back, capturing the side of the Latino community that isn’t always shown in the media: fondness, joy, and love. Yzette’s passions go beyond the arts as well, though she tries to find ways to incorporate it as much as possible. She is also deeply committed to her community, and last year, she conducted an extensive year-long research project that examined the impact of sex trafficking in her Houston community, working alongside police officers, who serve as first responders for a sex trafficking hotline. Yzette was passionate about her project and in an attempt to raise awareness and mitigate the tragedy of self-trafficking, she created Chapstick packaging with the hotline number hidden between a double-layered nutrition facts label, which was distributed by a local non-profit. Collaborating with a nonprofit hasn’t been her only partnership. She has also worked directly with Nike promoting their classic shoes, with Disney by promoting their new trading card app, and with College Board, encouraging seniors to apply for scholarships. Collaborating with big brands have given Yzette an insight into what the entertainment and business industry is like, and she has adored it. Her future is bright, and Yzette is surely on her way to a successful career. She plans to study Forensic Science at Texas A&M University, University of Texas, or the University of Houston.
Public Service
Gold - Analys Barinaga
Major: International Relations and Industrial Engineering
GPA: 4.00
High School: Duchesne Academy of the Sacred Heart
Heritage: Cuban
As Analys Barinaga knows, public service can look different to different people. For her, the values of public service have guided her decisions. When she realized that it could be a viable career path, she leapt at the opportunity to test the proverbial waters, and since then she’s submerged herself completely. Already, Analys has taken a Duke Tip summer course on criminal trial advocacy, joined her school’s Varsity Debate Team, and explored the world of policy and law in coursework. To put her policy knowledge to the test, she joined Model United Nations, where she is now the team president, sharing her passion for analyzing world issues with others. Analys loved Model UN, but the fact that it was simply a simulation resonated with her, and she branched out to look for concrete ways to improve the world right now. To start with, she became Vice President and later President of Chair Club at her school, a club dedicated to advocating for and protecting the dignity of human life. She has also worked on election campaigns, doing phone banking and managing voter registration drives. In the summer before her senior year, she was accepted into the Yale Young Global Scholars program, where she was able to learn more about social issues and collaborate with other driven high school students. Analys believes firmly in giving back to her community, and she founded a nonprofit organization called Barrettes for Books, where she works to sew and sell hairbows from old school uniforms, using the profits to fund a library at Villa Guadalupe, as well as a women and children’s shelter. In addition to her wide array of extracurricular activities, Analys still manages to maintain a 4.0 GPA even with a schedule crammed with AP classes ranging from Calculus to Language and Composition. She has been recognized with various awards, including the US Congressional Certificate of Recognition, Junior Class Peer Award, and Wilson Foundation Scholarship. She plans to continue her mission of improving the world and engaging in world affairs by studying International Relations and Industrial Engineering at Georgetown University, Boston College, or the University of Michigan.
GPA: 4.00
High School: Duchesne Academy of the Sacred Heart
Heritage: Cuban
As Analys Barinaga knows, public service can look different to different people. For her, the values of public service have guided her decisions. When she realized that it could be a viable career path, she leapt at the opportunity to test the proverbial waters, and since then she’s submerged herself completely. Already, Analys has taken a Duke Tip summer course on criminal trial advocacy, joined her school’s Varsity Debate Team, and explored the world of policy and law in coursework. To put her policy knowledge to the test, she joined Model United Nations, where she is now the team president, sharing her passion for analyzing world issues with others. Analys loved Model UN, but the fact that it was simply a simulation resonated with her, and she branched out to look for concrete ways to improve the world right now. To start with, she became Vice President and later President of Chair Club at her school, a club dedicated to advocating for and protecting the dignity of human life. She has also worked on election campaigns, doing phone banking and managing voter registration drives. In the summer before her senior year, she was accepted into the Yale Young Global Scholars program, where she was able to learn more about social issues and collaborate with other driven high school students. Analys believes firmly in giving back to her community, and she founded a nonprofit organization called Barrettes for Books, where she works to sew and sell hairbows from old school uniforms, using the profits to fund a library at Villa Guadalupe, as well as a women and children’s shelter. In addition to her wide array of extracurricular activities, Analys still manages to maintain a 4.0 GPA even with a schedule crammed with AP classes ranging from Calculus to Language and Composition. She has been recognized with various awards, including the US Congressional Certificate of Recognition, Junior Class Peer Award, and Wilson Foundation Scholarship. She plans to continue her mission of improving the world and engaging in world affairs by studying International Relations and Industrial Engineering at Georgetown University, Boston College, or the University of Michigan.
Silver - Ysamar Tineo
Major: Political Science
GPA: 3.62
High School: North Dallas High School
Heritage: Dominican
Ysamar Tineo is many things: a go-getter, a natural leader, a strong academic, and much more. A well-liked member of her high school, for the last four years, she has served as Class President, as well as JROTC Battalion Commander. Incredibly involved in her community, she has traveled across the United States to attend national conventions and seminars. She is also involved in the Student Voter Empowerment Coalition, where she works to educate youth about voting and what is required to become a well-informed and registered voter. Ysamar’s determination is evident in much of what she does, but no better example exists than her commitment to becoming an attorney for the criminal justice or immigration system. To prepare for her future career, Ysamar has enrolled in upper-level history classes and participated in various extracurricular clubs and activities. A hard-working student, her teachers characterize her as someone who exemplifies the many positive traits required of a role model both within and beyond the classroom. A major component of public service is a commitment to commit one’s work and life to the service of others. This commitment is evident in Ysamar’s many volunteer roles. For example, as a Teen Representative for her high school, she was involved in various meetings to discuss the ways in which resources better prepare certain schools and their students for success. Also, a proud Latina, Ysamar believes that the world we live in has far too little representation of the Latino community in positions of power. She hopes to change that in her future as an attorney and truly believes that the very same people who have been nurtured by the community have a duty to project the voices of the people within it. Based on her established track record, there is no doubt that Ysamar is up for the task at hand. She hopes to continue on her academic journey by studying Political Science at St. John University, Clemson University, or Rice University, and if one thing is for certain, post-university, Ysamar will only keep climbing.
GPA: 3.62
High School: North Dallas High School
Heritage: Dominican
Ysamar Tineo is many things: a go-getter, a natural leader, a strong academic, and much more. A well-liked member of her high school, for the last four years, she has served as Class President, as well as JROTC Battalion Commander. Incredibly involved in her community, she has traveled across the United States to attend national conventions and seminars. She is also involved in the Student Voter Empowerment Coalition, where she works to educate youth about voting and what is required to become a well-informed and registered voter. Ysamar’s determination is evident in much of what she does, but no better example exists than her commitment to becoming an attorney for the criminal justice or immigration system. To prepare for her future career, Ysamar has enrolled in upper-level history classes and participated in various extracurricular clubs and activities. A hard-working student, her teachers characterize her as someone who exemplifies the many positive traits required of a role model both within and beyond the classroom. A major component of public service is a commitment to commit one’s work and life to the service of others. This commitment is evident in Ysamar’s many volunteer roles. For example, as a Teen Representative for her high school, she was involved in various meetings to discuss the ways in which resources better prepare certain schools and their students for success. Also, a proud Latina, Ysamar believes that the world we live in has far too little representation of the Latino community in positions of power. She hopes to change that in her future as an attorney and truly believes that the very same people who have been nurtured by the community have a duty to project the voices of the people within it. Based on her established track record, there is no doubt that Ysamar is up for the task at hand. She hopes to continue on her academic journey by studying Political Science at St. John University, Clemson University, or Rice University, and if one thing is for certain, post-university, Ysamar will only keep climbing.
Bronze - Gabriela Pérez
Major: Sociology with a minor in Neuroscience
GPA: 3.70
High School: North Houston Early College High School
Heritage: Mexican
For Gabriela Pérez, essay-writing is not necessarily her favorite part of academics, but enrolled in her first sociology class, she suddenly found the task exciting. Hours of research and writing would pass, almost without her noticing – in fact, the class felt more like leisure time than an academic commitment. For Gabriela, sociology offered a chance to broaden her understanding of the world we all live in and introduced her to advocacy. In response, she promptly joined the 2020 Youth Advocacy Summit, where she began to understand the influence corporations have on politics and social issues. For Gabriela, the best way to combat these issues are to improve education, and that’s exactly what she wants to do: tear down the cobwebs of social inequality and level the playing field. In the summer of 2019, Gabriela began her journey toward becoming an educator when she and a group of friends who all agreed education was necessary to ignite change, decided to create a youth leadership team. One Step Forward aims to improve the way youth communicate and advocate for themselves, and the initiative quickly kicked off, with Gabriela at the helm. Her commitment to education is laudable, but Gabriela’s hard work and dedication is as much the result of her own desires as it is an effort to make her parents proud. Family is important to her, and in her own words, “the human race is one big family. The empathy we ought to have with each other is in us; we just have to display it for others.” This is a dogma that Gabriela embodies every day and one of the resounding reasons that she hopes to go into a life of public service. She believes strongly in supporting education for her and future generations, caring for her elders, and instilling strong cultural values into her daily actions. Clearly well on her way to success and becoming the role model that her parents will be proud of, Gabriela plans to study Sociology with a minor in Neuroscience at Occidental College, Swarthmore College, or Rice University.
GPA: 3.70
High School: North Houston Early College High School
Heritage: Mexican
For Gabriela Pérez, essay-writing is not necessarily her favorite part of academics, but enrolled in her first sociology class, she suddenly found the task exciting. Hours of research and writing would pass, almost without her noticing – in fact, the class felt more like leisure time than an academic commitment. For Gabriela, sociology offered a chance to broaden her understanding of the world we all live in and introduced her to advocacy. In response, she promptly joined the 2020 Youth Advocacy Summit, where she began to understand the influence corporations have on politics and social issues. For Gabriela, the best way to combat these issues are to improve education, and that’s exactly what she wants to do: tear down the cobwebs of social inequality and level the playing field. In the summer of 2019, Gabriela began her journey toward becoming an educator when she and a group of friends who all agreed education was necessary to ignite change, decided to create a youth leadership team. One Step Forward aims to improve the way youth communicate and advocate for themselves, and the initiative quickly kicked off, with Gabriela at the helm. Her commitment to education is laudable, but Gabriela’s hard work and dedication is as much the result of her own desires as it is an effort to make her parents proud. Family is important to her, and in her own words, “the human race is one big family. The empathy we ought to have with each other is in us; we just have to display it for others.” This is a dogma that Gabriela embodies every day and one of the resounding reasons that she hopes to go into a life of public service. She believes strongly in supporting education for her and future generations, caring for her elders, and instilling strong cultural values into her daily actions. Clearly well on her way to success and becoming the role model that her parents will be proud of, Gabriela plans to study Sociology with a minor in Neuroscience at Occidental College, Swarthmore College, or Rice University.
Social Justice
Gold - Lensy Velásquez
Major: Human Rights or Legal Studies with a minor in Psychology
GPA: 3.86
High School: Klein Oak High School
Heritage: Salvadoran and Honduran
The value of caring for and helping others has been instilled in Lensy Velásquez since childhood. Her parents were sure to encourage Lensy and her brother to always look for ways to be kind, especially to those in the Latino community in the US, many of whom had faced hardships of their own. Caring for others is second nature, but when Lensy realized that she could build a profession from it, she knew she had found her calling. Since then, she has decided to pursue a career as a Human Rights Lawyer and has taken as many steps as possible toward realizing her dream. Currently, she is participating in the International Internship Program, a branch of the Leadership Initiative Organization, in which she and a team of her peers have been helping Nigerian law firms tackle human rights violations. She and her team chose to focus on the lack of education for many girls in Nigeria, an experience that helped her realize her own privilege and further enhanced her desire to help others. This wasn’t the only time Lensy has volunteered her time. In the summer of 2020, she also participated in the Purse Project meant to help women in shelters dealing with homelessness and domestic abuse. Seeing so many women come together to help each other inspired her and made her more hopeful for the world at large. Apart from her clear commitment to social justice in her extracurricular endeavors, Lensy is also an impressive student. With a wide range of AP and higher-level classes on her resume, she has a well-rounded education and maintains a 3.86 GPA. A proud member of the Latino community, she believes it is important to have cultural pride, but also to acknowledge the systemic issues in our communities. She hopes to continue empowering this and future generations to work together and continue the cycle of accountability and upliftment of marginalized communities. It’s certain that Lensy’s professional and academic future looks bright, and she plans to study Human Rights or Legal Studies with a minor in Psychology at the University of Texas at Austin, Columbia University, or the University of Washington.
GPA: 3.86
High School: Klein Oak High School
Heritage: Salvadoran and Honduran
The value of caring for and helping others has been instilled in Lensy Velásquez since childhood. Her parents were sure to encourage Lensy and her brother to always look for ways to be kind, especially to those in the Latino community in the US, many of whom had faced hardships of their own. Caring for others is second nature, but when Lensy realized that she could build a profession from it, she knew she had found her calling. Since then, she has decided to pursue a career as a Human Rights Lawyer and has taken as many steps as possible toward realizing her dream. Currently, she is participating in the International Internship Program, a branch of the Leadership Initiative Organization, in which she and a team of her peers have been helping Nigerian law firms tackle human rights violations. She and her team chose to focus on the lack of education for many girls in Nigeria, an experience that helped her realize her own privilege and further enhanced her desire to help others. This wasn’t the only time Lensy has volunteered her time. In the summer of 2020, she also participated in the Purse Project meant to help women in shelters dealing with homelessness and domestic abuse. Seeing so many women come together to help each other inspired her and made her more hopeful for the world at large. Apart from her clear commitment to social justice in her extracurricular endeavors, Lensy is also an impressive student. With a wide range of AP and higher-level classes on her resume, she has a well-rounded education and maintains a 3.86 GPA. A proud member of the Latino community, she believes it is important to have cultural pride, but also to acknowledge the systemic issues in our communities. She hopes to continue empowering this and future generations to work together and continue the cycle of accountability and upliftment of marginalized communities. It’s certain that Lensy’s professional and academic future looks bright, and she plans to study Human Rights or Legal Studies with a minor in Psychology at the University of Texas at Austin, Columbia University, or the University of Washington.
Silver - Lauren González
Major: Political Science with a Pre-Law track
GPA: 3.89
High School: Communication Arts
Heritage: Mexican
Lauren González is one of those rare young individuals who has the ability and knowledge to take the initiative and make things happen, without constant supervision. According to her teachers, she is an exceptional leader and shows a constant willingness to assist others in any capacity that she can. No better example exists than Lauren’s effort to implement a sexual violence advocacy program for schools in San Antonio. She began the program this past summer as part of an internship with Girls Inc. of San Antonio. The project has since evolved into Teal Week, a sex education program geared toward learning about and preventing sexual violence. But Lauren’s impact is not limited to her local community – she has testified and presented Teal Week to the State Board of Education of Texas, as well as to local school district leaders. Already, social justice forms a part of her life. In addition to her advocacy program, Lauren is also a member of the San Antonio Police Corps Cadet Program, which has been especially critical in regard to the police reform protests and discussions that have taken place over the last summer. Lauren took the opportunity to be part of the solution and worked to improve police and community relations by asking questions and identifying issues facing the community to her corps cadet commanders and fellow cadets. As a 4 -year letterman and 2-year varsity captain of her high school golf team, Lauren exemplifies the many qualities of a well-rounded individual. On top of her extracurricular activities, she is a diligent student, always demonstrating a keen interest in bettering herself, and maintaining an impressive 3.89 GPA amid challenging coursework and commitments. Committed to improving the justice system, she hopes to study Political Science with a Pre-Law track at Baylor University, University of Missouri, or University of Iowa. If she is even a fraction as committed to her future goals as she has been to honing her academic and professional prowess in high school, Lauren’s lofty goals will certainly be attainable.
GPA: 3.89
High School: Communication Arts
Heritage: Mexican
Lauren González is one of those rare young individuals who has the ability and knowledge to take the initiative and make things happen, without constant supervision. According to her teachers, she is an exceptional leader and shows a constant willingness to assist others in any capacity that she can. No better example exists than Lauren’s effort to implement a sexual violence advocacy program for schools in San Antonio. She began the program this past summer as part of an internship with Girls Inc. of San Antonio. The project has since evolved into Teal Week, a sex education program geared toward learning about and preventing sexual violence. But Lauren’s impact is not limited to her local community – she has testified and presented Teal Week to the State Board of Education of Texas, as well as to local school district leaders. Already, social justice forms a part of her life. In addition to her advocacy program, Lauren is also a member of the San Antonio Police Corps Cadet Program, which has been especially critical in regard to the police reform protests and discussions that have taken place over the last summer. Lauren took the opportunity to be part of the solution and worked to improve police and community relations by asking questions and identifying issues facing the community to her corps cadet commanders and fellow cadets. As a 4 -year letterman and 2-year varsity captain of her high school golf team, Lauren exemplifies the many qualities of a well-rounded individual. On top of her extracurricular activities, she is a diligent student, always demonstrating a keen interest in bettering herself, and maintaining an impressive 3.89 GPA amid challenging coursework and commitments. Committed to improving the justice system, she hopes to study Political Science with a Pre-Law track at Baylor University, University of Missouri, or University of Iowa. If she is even a fraction as committed to her future goals as she has been to honing her academic and professional prowess in high school, Lauren’s lofty goals will certainly be attainable.
Bronze - Madelyn Elizondo
Major: Political Science with a minor in Sustainability Studies
GPA: 4.00
High School: Tom C. Clark High School
Heritage: Mexican
Madelyn Elizondo is a woman of indomitable spirit and impressive strength, two qualities necessary for a future in social justice. Two summers ago, she attended a program at Harvard that investigated race in politics throughout history. Her research focused on black youth and the discrimination they face in the education system ranging from underfunded schools to harsher disciplinary consequences. The experience urged her forward in her pursuit of knowledge, and in her junior year of high school, she decided to take charge, rallying her peers and starting Amnesty Club, a chapter of Amnesty International. As a high schooler, she is already contributing to the fight for social justice, writing letters, signing and drafting petitions, and educating herself and those around her. In the future, she hopes to apply this same rigorous perseverance by practicing law and fighting on behalf of those affected by human rights violations and injustices across the globe. As one might expect, giving back is important to Madelyn, and she frequently volunteers for a local organization called Special Reach, which works to serve children with special needs and their families. In addition, she serves as National Honor Society Vice President at her school, and launched the Buddy Program, where each member was paired with a special needs student. The result was heartening – even during virtual learning, it allowed students to form new relationships and offered an outlet during uncertain times. In addition to her extracurricular activities, Madelyn is also an impressive academic, maintaining a glowing 4.0 GPA amid an AP-charged schedule. Her teachers describe her as a warm presence in the classroom with a sense of humor, always willing to make her peers feel more comfortable. Equally comfortable getting the ball rolling or encouraging others to take the lead, Madelyn has a bright future ahead of her. She plans to study Political Science with a minor in Sustainability Studies at University of Texas Austin, Georgetown University, or Duke University.
GPA: 4.00
High School: Tom C. Clark High School
Heritage: Mexican
Madelyn Elizondo is a woman of indomitable spirit and impressive strength, two qualities necessary for a future in social justice. Two summers ago, she attended a program at Harvard that investigated race in politics throughout history. Her research focused on black youth and the discrimination they face in the education system ranging from underfunded schools to harsher disciplinary consequences. The experience urged her forward in her pursuit of knowledge, and in her junior year of high school, she decided to take charge, rallying her peers and starting Amnesty Club, a chapter of Amnesty International. As a high schooler, she is already contributing to the fight for social justice, writing letters, signing and drafting petitions, and educating herself and those around her. In the future, she hopes to apply this same rigorous perseverance by practicing law and fighting on behalf of those affected by human rights violations and injustices across the globe. As one might expect, giving back is important to Madelyn, and she frequently volunteers for a local organization called Special Reach, which works to serve children with special needs and their families. In addition, she serves as National Honor Society Vice President at her school, and launched the Buddy Program, where each member was paired with a special needs student. The result was heartening – even during virtual learning, it allowed students to form new relationships and offered an outlet during uncertain times. In addition to her extracurricular activities, Madelyn is also an impressive academic, maintaining a glowing 4.0 GPA amid an AP-charged schedule. Her teachers describe her as a warm presence in the classroom with a sense of humor, always willing to make her peers feel more comfortable. Equally comfortable getting the ball rolling or encouraging others to take the lead, Madelyn has a bright future ahead of her. She plans to study Political Science with a minor in Sustainability Studies at University of Texas Austin, Georgetown University, or Duke University.
Technology
Gold - Adriana Delagarza
Major: Physics/Astronomy/Engineering
GPA: 4.00
High School: Sandra Day O’Connor High School
Heritage: Mexican
The best students are not necessarily the ones that get perfect grades but those who commit themselves to learning material inside and out. Adriana Delagarza just so happens to be both of those things, and it’s no surprise that her teachers characterize her as being a passionate, dedicated, brilliant, and motivated young woman. Since July 2020, Adriana has been participating in MOSTEC, a prestigious MIT online program geared toward minorities in STEM. Through the program, she has been able to explore the bounds of universal, while addressing prejudicial weaknesses in the STEM industry. She is incredibly passionate about the theoretical side of physics, though she also participated in NASA’s Texas High School Aerospace Scholars program last year. By the time she had begun to seriously consider engineering as a career path, she had been accepted into the Columbia Engineering Experience, during which she dove into design-thinking lectures and networking events. However, Adriana says her most influential experience has been working one-on-one with her mentor, Dr. Frederic Allegrini, a Staff Researcher and Space Technologist at Southwest Research Institute in San Antonio. Never before had Adriana worked on research so direct and intense, but the experience has left her enthralled, and she hopes to have a published research paper on her findings related to radiation bands around Jupiter by the end of the school year. STEM is a major passion of Adriana’s, but it isn’t her only interest. She is also committed to serving others and every summer since 2012, she has looked forward to volunteering at her church’s weeklong Vacation Bible School. She also works part-time at Mathnasium Learning Center as a math tutor for kids of all ages and math levels, where she has learned to inspire young people. Too often, math and other STEM subjects are regarded as “dull”, but Adriana learned to connect with her students, nurture their innate intelligence and curiosity, and cultivate an interest in math. With a perfect 4.0 GPA and a host of AP classes, as well as awards and recognitions, she is sure to find success in her future studies of Physics, Astronomy, and/or Engineering at Harvard University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, or Columbia University.
GPA: 4.00
High School: Sandra Day O’Connor High School
Heritage: Mexican
The best students are not necessarily the ones that get perfect grades but those who commit themselves to learning material inside and out. Adriana Delagarza just so happens to be both of those things, and it’s no surprise that her teachers characterize her as being a passionate, dedicated, brilliant, and motivated young woman. Since July 2020, Adriana has been participating in MOSTEC, a prestigious MIT online program geared toward minorities in STEM. Through the program, she has been able to explore the bounds of universal, while addressing prejudicial weaknesses in the STEM industry. She is incredibly passionate about the theoretical side of physics, though she also participated in NASA’s Texas High School Aerospace Scholars program last year. By the time she had begun to seriously consider engineering as a career path, she had been accepted into the Columbia Engineering Experience, during which she dove into design-thinking lectures and networking events. However, Adriana says her most influential experience has been working one-on-one with her mentor, Dr. Frederic Allegrini, a Staff Researcher and Space Technologist at Southwest Research Institute in San Antonio. Never before had Adriana worked on research so direct and intense, but the experience has left her enthralled, and she hopes to have a published research paper on her findings related to radiation bands around Jupiter by the end of the school year. STEM is a major passion of Adriana’s, but it isn’t her only interest. She is also committed to serving others and every summer since 2012, she has looked forward to volunteering at her church’s weeklong Vacation Bible School. She also works part-time at Mathnasium Learning Center as a math tutor for kids of all ages and math levels, where she has learned to inspire young people. Too often, math and other STEM subjects are regarded as “dull”, but Adriana learned to connect with her students, nurture their innate intelligence and curiosity, and cultivate an interest in math. With a perfect 4.0 GPA and a host of AP classes, as well as awards and recognitions, she is sure to find success in her future studies of Physics, Astronomy, and/or Engineering at Harvard University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, or Columbia University.
Silver - César Meza
Major: Mechanical Engineering and Aerospace Engineering
GPA: 4.00
High School: Captain John L. Chapin High School
Heritage: Mexican
Barely past his toddling phase, César watched Apollo footage of the astronauts walking down the loading aisle and called out “Ma, they waved at me!”. His fascination was immediate and throughout his childhood, he recalls hoarding library books about space, pouring over rovers and space machinery. Space exploration is not just a longing for the past for César. It is the very impetus of his present and future. Now, as a young man, he is putting his passion to the test, and since his freshman year of high school, he has only been expanding his love of technology. In his first year, he worked in the school’s senior prototyping lab as part of the Technology Student Association. Amid chaos, the whirring of 3-D printers, the scent of burning acrylic, he was in heaven. He has since committed himself even further, participating in the NASA High School Aerospace Scholars and enrolling in as many AP and science classes as his schedule could handle. He has cruised through obstacles, maintaining a perfect 4.0 GPA. According to his teachers, César is a brilliant and determined young man, never one to choose the easy path, but always willing to commit himself to learning more. His incorporation of wit and humor entertains and educates those around him, and he is well-liked by both peers and superiors. Academics are not César’s only strong suit – he is a well-rounded individual involved in various extracurricular activities. When not studying or taking things apart to “see how they work”, you can find him on the red and blue mat of his masters’ dojang teaching Taekwondo. For six years he has challenged his students both physically and mentally, encouraging them to look at the world through different eyes and cultivating tenacity and determination. César’s best advice: “Remember what your mother told you: this world is a mirror. If you are kind, you’ll see kindness; if you are mean, you’ll see meanness. What would you rather see in the world?”. Apart from kindness, we’re certain César will also be seeing success reflected back at him. He plans to study Mechanical Engineering and Aerospace Engineering at California Institute of Technology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Princeton University.
GPA: 4.00
High School: Captain John L. Chapin High School
Heritage: Mexican
Barely past his toddling phase, César watched Apollo footage of the astronauts walking down the loading aisle and called out “Ma, they waved at me!”. His fascination was immediate and throughout his childhood, he recalls hoarding library books about space, pouring over rovers and space machinery. Space exploration is not just a longing for the past for César. It is the very impetus of his present and future. Now, as a young man, he is putting his passion to the test, and since his freshman year of high school, he has only been expanding his love of technology. In his first year, he worked in the school’s senior prototyping lab as part of the Technology Student Association. Amid chaos, the whirring of 3-D printers, the scent of burning acrylic, he was in heaven. He has since committed himself even further, participating in the NASA High School Aerospace Scholars and enrolling in as many AP and science classes as his schedule could handle. He has cruised through obstacles, maintaining a perfect 4.0 GPA. According to his teachers, César is a brilliant and determined young man, never one to choose the easy path, but always willing to commit himself to learning more. His incorporation of wit and humor entertains and educates those around him, and he is well-liked by both peers and superiors. Academics are not César’s only strong suit – he is a well-rounded individual involved in various extracurricular activities. When not studying or taking things apart to “see how they work”, you can find him on the red and blue mat of his masters’ dojang teaching Taekwondo. For six years he has challenged his students both physically and mentally, encouraging them to look at the world through different eyes and cultivating tenacity and determination. César’s best advice: “Remember what your mother told you: this world is a mirror. If you are kind, you’ll see kindness; if you are mean, you’ll see meanness. What would you rather see in the world?”. Apart from kindness, we’re certain César will also be seeing success reflected back at him. He plans to study Mechanical Engineering and Aerospace Engineering at California Institute of Technology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Princeton University.
Bronze - Alexia Rutledge
Major: Aerospace Engineering or Mechanical Engineering
GPA: 4.00
High School: Lewisville High School
Heritage: Mexican
A young Alexia Rutledge, seated beside her father, watched the launching of space shuttles on television and was entranced. As they hurtled into the sky, she couldn’t help but wonder: what made them go? How did they move so fast? How were they made? The final thought, and the one she has to this day: I want to do that! Though she didn’t yet know what the title or profession was, Alexia’s interest in technology was piqued, and she now plans to become an aerospace engineer. This year, she got her first taste of her future career by participating in NASA’s Texas High School Aerospace Scholars program, where she worked with NASA scientists to design her own satellites and discovery missions to explore deep space, the moon, and Mars. In aerospace engineering, the sky is not the limit. The boundaries of possibility can be as infinitely expansive as space itself, and Alexia’s future goals are just as boundless. She is no longer a little girl dreaming of space but a young woman, committed to making her dreams a reality. It’s no surprise that someone so dedicated is also an impressive academic student. With a perfect 4.0 GPA, as well as a host of awards and recognitions, she consistently goes above and beyond. A highly motivated individual, academics are important to Alexia, but in the midst of the global pandemic and the chaos of the world around her, she learned to retrain her focus on things that she had previously taken for granted but which were equally critical for her success. Alexia threw herself into volunteering for and donating to food and donation drives, working with the Christ Child Society at her church. In addition to her commitment to others and her academic success, Alexia is also an avid equestrian, and riding horses has taught Alexia many skills, mainly, to overcome obstacles, and when faced with adversity, to get right back on the horse – literally or metaphorically. Though small, she is not to be underestimated and her future prospects of studying Aerospace Engineering or Mechanical Engineering are bound to be colossal successes. She hopes to continue her pursuit of knowledge at Rice University, University of Texas, or Texas A&M University.
GPA: 4.00
High School: Lewisville High School
Heritage: Mexican
A young Alexia Rutledge, seated beside her father, watched the launching of space shuttles on television and was entranced. As they hurtled into the sky, she couldn’t help but wonder: what made them go? How did they move so fast? How were they made? The final thought, and the one she has to this day: I want to do that! Though she didn’t yet know what the title or profession was, Alexia’s interest in technology was piqued, and she now plans to become an aerospace engineer. This year, she got her first taste of her future career by participating in NASA’s Texas High School Aerospace Scholars program, where she worked with NASA scientists to design her own satellites and discovery missions to explore deep space, the moon, and Mars. In aerospace engineering, the sky is not the limit. The boundaries of possibility can be as infinitely expansive as space itself, and Alexia’s future goals are just as boundless. She is no longer a little girl dreaming of space but a young woman, committed to making her dreams a reality. It’s no surprise that someone so dedicated is also an impressive academic student. With a perfect 4.0 GPA, as well as a host of awards and recognitions, she consistently goes above and beyond. A highly motivated individual, academics are important to Alexia, but in the midst of the global pandemic and the chaos of the world around her, she learned to retrain her focus on things that she had previously taken for granted but which were equally critical for her success. Alexia threw herself into volunteering for and donating to food and donation drives, working with the Christ Child Society at her church. In addition to her commitment to others and her academic success, Alexia is also an avid equestrian, and riding horses has taught Alexia many skills, mainly, to overcome obstacles, and when faced with adversity, to get right back on the horse – literally or metaphorically. Though small, she is not to be underestimated and her future prospects of studying Aerospace Engineering or Mechanical Engineering are bound to be colossal successes. She hopes to continue her pursuit of knowledge at Rice University, University of Texas, or Texas A&M University.
