Business & Entrepreneurship
Community Service
Education
Engineering
Healthcare & Science
Media & Entertainment
Public Service & Social Justice
Sports & Fitness
Sustainability (Green)
Technology
Business & Entrepreneurship
GOLD - Stephanie Medrano
Hometown: Miami, FL
GPA: 4.00
High School: G. Holmes Braddock Senior High School
Heritage: Nicaraguan
Goal-driven from a young age, Miami, Florida resident Stephanie, first considered accounting as a potential career path when she was still in elementary school. "I realized I loved numbers," she says. Her mathematical abilities led then fifth-grader Stephanie to research what becoming an accountant would entail. Toward the end of eighth grade, when the time came for her to select her freshman year elective courses, she seized the opportunity to enroll in her first accounting class. "[T]his was my opportunity to see if accounting was the correct career for me. And indeed, it was," remarks Stephanie. Accounting came easy to her. Learning new terminology, working with numbers, bookkeeping, and everything she learned in class simply clicked for her. She excelled in class, and in recognition of her performance, at the end of the year, she earned the Outstanding Accounting Student of the Year award. Thanks to her accounting class, Stephanie was able to obtain her tax preparer certification, which allowed her to volunteer to prepare taxes for members of her community through her school's Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. Her efficiency, attention to detail, and how well she interacted with her community while volunteering so impressed her teacher, that she asked Stephanie to serve as site coordinator, supervising her tax-preparing peers at her school's VITA site the following year. Stephanie is the current president of her school's chapters of Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) and the National Business Honor Society (NBHS). Her school's FBLA sponsor praises her work with the organization. "Truthfully, I have no idea where our club would be if [Stephanie] were not our president. The amount of time she puts into all aspects and facets of our club is truly astonishing," he shares. Stephanie has also competed and earned awards in the accounting and business calculations categories of FBLA competitions. Working with NBHS in conjunction with the Educational Federal Credit Union (EdFed), she led efforts to organize a financial literacy event at her school. Furthermore, she is an intern at Bulldogs Credit Union, her school's EdFed branch. Stephanie is a model student. She maintains a 4.0 GPA and is part of her school's prestigious iPrep Academy, its most academically demanding and selective program. In addition to her leadership positions in business organizations, she serves as vice president of her school's chapters of the National Art Honor Society and the National World Language Honor Society. Stephanie is also a prominent member of her school's chapters of the National Honor Society, the Math Honor Society, and the Rho Kappa National Social Studies Honor Society. For all her academic accomplishments and contributions to her community, Stephanie is her school's business nominee for the Miami Herald's Silver Knight Award, which recognizes "outstanding students who have not only maintained good grades but have also unselfishly applied their special knowledge and talents to contribute significant service to their schools and communities." This extraordinary Latina of Nicaraguan descent will attend Florida International University, the University of Miami, or Barry University. She plans to study Accounting and Human Resources.
GPA: 4.00
High School: G. Holmes Braddock Senior High School
Heritage: Nicaraguan
Goal-driven from a young age, Miami, Florida resident Stephanie, first considered accounting as a potential career path when she was still in elementary school. "I realized I loved numbers," she says. Her mathematical abilities led then fifth-grader Stephanie to research what becoming an accountant would entail. Toward the end of eighth grade, when the time came for her to select her freshman year elective courses, she seized the opportunity to enroll in her first accounting class. "[T]his was my opportunity to see if accounting was the correct career for me. And indeed, it was," remarks Stephanie. Accounting came easy to her. Learning new terminology, working with numbers, bookkeeping, and everything she learned in class simply clicked for her. She excelled in class, and in recognition of her performance, at the end of the year, she earned the Outstanding Accounting Student of the Year award. Thanks to her accounting class, Stephanie was able to obtain her tax preparer certification, which allowed her to volunteer to prepare taxes for members of her community through her school's Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. Her efficiency, attention to detail, and how well she interacted with her community while volunteering so impressed her teacher, that she asked Stephanie to serve as site coordinator, supervising her tax-preparing peers at her school's VITA site the following year. Stephanie is the current president of her school's chapters of Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) and the National Business Honor Society (NBHS). Her school's FBLA sponsor praises her work with the organization. "Truthfully, I have no idea where our club would be if [Stephanie] were not our president. The amount of time she puts into all aspects and facets of our club is truly astonishing," he shares. Stephanie has also competed and earned awards in the accounting and business calculations categories of FBLA competitions. Working with NBHS in conjunction with the Educational Federal Credit Union (EdFed), she led efforts to organize a financial literacy event at her school. Furthermore, she is an intern at Bulldogs Credit Union, her school's EdFed branch. Stephanie is a model student. She maintains a 4.0 GPA and is part of her school's prestigious iPrep Academy, its most academically demanding and selective program. In addition to her leadership positions in business organizations, she serves as vice president of her school's chapters of the National Art Honor Society and the National World Language Honor Society. Stephanie is also a prominent member of her school's chapters of the National Honor Society, the Math Honor Society, and the Rho Kappa National Social Studies Honor Society. For all her academic accomplishments and contributions to her community, Stephanie is her school's business nominee for the Miami Herald's Silver Knight Award, which recognizes "outstanding students who have not only maintained good grades but have also unselfishly applied their special knowledge and talents to contribute significant service to their schools and communities." This extraordinary Latina of Nicaraguan descent will attend Florida International University, the University of Miami, or Barry University. She plans to study Accounting and Human Resources.
Silver - Ayleen Tello
Hometown: Hampton, GA
GPA: 4.00
High School: Elite Scholars Academy
Heritage: Colombian & Ecuadorian
Colombian Ecuadorian American Ayleen is a freelance illustrator and small business owner. A young entrepreneur, she has been managing her own flourishing sticker and stationery business for the last few years. Using smart business strategies and clever social media marketing tactics, she has grown an international client base, accumulated an audience of over 20,000 followers, and partnered up with other small businesses from across the globe, including from countries like China, Japan, and the United Kingdom. This glimpse into the world of business has awakened an interest in international business administration and marketing for this young Latina. With high aspirations and determination, Ayleen plans to study Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing and a minor in Economics. “With my education, I will be prepared for shaping organizational outcomes on an international level while cutting through evident complex intercultural issues—helping me make a lasting impact on [the] organizations [with which I am involved] and our macro world views,” she remarks. Ayleen is multifaceted in her interests and talents. Serving her community has been central to her high school experience. This Georgia resident was selected to serve on the Clayton County Youth Commission and her local Education and Career Development Committee (ECDC). Both of these positions have given her the opportunity to make an impact and help her community. As a youth commissioner, for example, Ayleen helped with voter registration drives, educational forums, and promoted civic engagement. While serving on the ECDC, she focused on bridging career educational gaps, job skills development, and creating informational sessions for post-graduate opportunities. As a change agent for her peers, she also took the lead in the planning process of the Committee’s College 101 event, where they educated youth in their community on filling out college applications and writing essays. She has been involved with several organizations at her school, including but not limited to its chapters of the National Honor Society, the National Beta Club, Mu Alpha Theta, its Hispanic Heritage Club, and Science Honors Society. Remarkably, on top of running her own business, her diligent work serving her community, and her many extracurricular activities, Ayleen is an exemplary student. She maintains a perfect 4.0 GPA through a rigorous academic program. As a dual enrollment student, she will also receive an Associate of Arts and Sciences in Business Administration and Management from Clayton State University upon graduation. With her drive, admirable work ethic and commitment, along with her impressive ability to juggle and excel at so many things at once, Ayleen is primed for success as she moves on to her next academic endeavor at the Georgia Institute of Technology.
GPA: 4.00
High School: Elite Scholars Academy
Heritage: Colombian & Ecuadorian
Colombian Ecuadorian American Ayleen is a freelance illustrator and small business owner. A young entrepreneur, she has been managing her own flourishing sticker and stationery business for the last few years. Using smart business strategies and clever social media marketing tactics, she has grown an international client base, accumulated an audience of over 20,000 followers, and partnered up with other small businesses from across the globe, including from countries like China, Japan, and the United Kingdom. This glimpse into the world of business has awakened an interest in international business administration and marketing for this young Latina. With high aspirations and determination, Ayleen plans to study Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing and a minor in Economics. “With my education, I will be prepared for shaping organizational outcomes on an international level while cutting through evident complex intercultural issues—helping me make a lasting impact on [the] organizations [with which I am involved] and our macro world views,” she remarks. Ayleen is multifaceted in her interests and talents. Serving her community has been central to her high school experience. This Georgia resident was selected to serve on the Clayton County Youth Commission and her local Education and Career Development Committee (ECDC). Both of these positions have given her the opportunity to make an impact and help her community. As a youth commissioner, for example, Ayleen helped with voter registration drives, educational forums, and promoted civic engagement. While serving on the ECDC, she focused on bridging career educational gaps, job skills development, and creating informational sessions for post-graduate opportunities. As a change agent for her peers, she also took the lead in the planning process of the Committee’s College 101 event, where they educated youth in their community on filling out college applications and writing essays. She has been involved with several organizations at her school, including but not limited to its chapters of the National Honor Society, the National Beta Club, Mu Alpha Theta, its Hispanic Heritage Club, and Science Honors Society. Remarkably, on top of running her own business, her diligent work serving her community, and her many extracurricular activities, Ayleen is an exemplary student. She maintains a perfect 4.0 GPA through a rigorous academic program. As a dual enrollment student, she will also receive an Associate of Arts and Sciences in Business Administration and Management from Clayton State University upon graduation. With her drive, admirable work ethic and commitment, along with her impressive ability to juggle and excel at so many things at once, Ayleen is primed for success as she moves on to her next academic endeavor at the Georgia Institute of Technology.
Bronze - Ivelisse Rodríguez
Hometown: Oviedo, FL
GPA: 4.00
High School: Oviedo High School
Heritage: Dominican & Puerto Rican
Ivelisse learned the ropes of managing a small business while watching her dad run his automotive repair shop as she grew up. She started her first entrepreneurial endeavor at the tender age of five. “Admittedly, this business was a series of scribbled picture books on stapled together copy paper,” shares Ivelisse. “[Y]et, it was a lucrative venture,” she adds. Ivelisse has had the fortune of always having the support of her parents and family through all her pursuits. Most significantly, not only have they been supportive of her undertakings, their dedication and self-motivation have encouraged and inspired Ivelisse. “My parents have always encouraged me to indulge in whatever I was passionate about. They have always been my biggest supporters and inspiration, and thus I wanted to take after them,” she remarks. Over the years, her entrepreneurial instincts have taken her through many paths, until last year, she officially began her own small business. An artist at heart, Ivelisse thrives in settings where she can express herself through creativity and share her talents with others. She found the opportunity to do just that through baking. She now runs a thriving home bakery business, which has grown to the point that she now attends her local food markets as vendor to sell her baked goods. “Running my own bakery business has been an incredibly beneficial learning experience, from customer service to production, I find myself in my element,” shares Ivelisse. This Latina of Dominican and Puerto Rican descent has been actively engaged in her community during her time in high school. Through the many service activities she has participated in, like volunteering at the Garden Theater in Central Florida and serving as a tutor for struggling students at her school, for Ivelisse, a future educator, her most meaningful experience contributing to her community was when she was able to combine her two loves—baking and education—and teach children in her community to express themselves through baking while serving as a counselor for a local kids baking camp. At her school, Oviedo High School, and through Florida Virtual School (FLVS), Ivelisse has been an active member of several clubs, including her school’s chapter of the Florida Future Educators of America, its Creative Club, Book Club, and the cyber chapter of the National English Honor Society, where she has served as vice president and secretary. Described by her teacher as a “kind, strong, compassionate, and motivated student,” she has maintained a 4.0 GPA and has enjoyed learning in an academically challenging environment. Guided by a desire to share her passions, be they teaching or baking, Ivelisse is on a bright path. She plans to study Secondary Education and English while attending Rollins College, the University of Central Florida, or Flagler College.
GPA: 4.00
High School: Oviedo High School
Heritage: Dominican & Puerto Rican
Ivelisse learned the ropes of managing a small business while watching her dad run his automotive repair shop as she grew up. She started her first entrepreneurial endeavor at the tender age of five. “Admittedly, this business was a series of scribbled picture books on stapled together copy paper,” shares Ivelisse. “[Y]et, it was a lucrative venture,” she adds. Ivelisse has had the fortune of always having the support of her parents and family through all her pursuits. Most significantly, not only have they been supportive of her undertakings, their dedication and self-motivation have encouraged and inspired Ivelisse. “My parents have always encouraged me to indulge in whatever I was passionate about. They have always been my biggest supporters and inspiration, and thus I wanted to take after them,” she remarks. Over the years, her entrepreneurial instincts have taken her through many paths, until last year, she officially began her own small business. An artist at heart, Ivelisse thrives in settings where she can express herself through creativity and share her talents with others. She found the opportunity to do just that through baking. She now runs a thriving home bakery business, which has grown to the point that she now attends her local food markets as vendor to sell her baked goods. “Running my own bakery business has been an incredibly beneficial learning experience, from customer service to production, I find myself in my element,” shares Ivelisse. This Latina of Dominican and Puerto Rican descent has been actively engaged in her community during her time in high school. Through the many service activities she has participated in, like volunteering at the Garden Theater in Central Florida and serving as a tutor for struggling students at her school, for Ivelisse, a future educator, her most meaningful experience contributing to her community was when she was able to combine her two loves—baking and education—and teach children in her community to express themselves through baking while serving as a counselor for a local kids baking camp. At her school, Oviedo High School, and through Florida Virtual School (FLVS), Ivelisse has been an active member of several clubs, including her school’s chapter of the Florida Future Educators of America, its Creative Club, Book Club, and the cyber chapter of the National English Honor Society, where she has served as vice president and secretary. Described by her teacher as a “kind, strong, compassionate, and motivated student,” she has maintained a 4.0 GPA and has enjoyed learning in an academically challenging environment. Guided by a desire to share her passions, be they teaching or baking, Ivelisse is on a bright path. She plans to study Secondary Education and English while attending Rollins College, the University of Central Florida, or Flagler College.
Community Service
GOLD - Lauren Bartel
Hometown: Coral Gables, FL
GPA: 4.00
High School: Gulliver Preparatory School
Heritage: Argentine
"My parents instilled in me a belief in the service of others and, through the church, I learned the importance of grace," says Coral Gables, Florida resident, Lauren. For this Latina of Argentine descent, children's educational issues and conservation and sustainability awareness and advocacy have been core passions that have guided her life purpose since she was younger. As early as elementary school, when, on her own initiative, she had the impetus to start a local fundraiser selling cookies she baked to help raise money to help homeless children purchase books to read, Lauren remembers sensing a calling to help her community and the world around her. She has since dedicated herself, heart and soul, to serving her community, driven by a sense of duty, gratitude, and purpose to be a servant leader. To give you a glimpse of an idea into how much Lauren has invested into creating tangible results in her community and beyond: to date, only counting her high school years, Lauren has recorded well over 2,000 hours of community service and has been recognized, as her school's associate director of college and guidance counseling would call it, by "an almost absurd number" of national and regional awards and honors for her faithful dedication and prolific contributions, including being twice recipient of the President's Volunteer Service Award Gold Medal. Among her abundant initiatives, Lauren has: developed a free peer-tutoring program where hundreds of volunteer tutors across all subject areas offer their services to students in her community; created a new organization within the local Audubon Society, a nonprofit environmental organization dedicated to the conservation of birds and their habitats, for younger generation conservationists with an active education and awareness participation of hundreds of children and families; and founded Our Bright World, a nonprofit that recognizes, encourages, and supports the ideas of teenagers working toward effecting real-world change. Lauren has also conducted volunteer research in botany and marine biology and spearheaded leadership and service activities while being a vocal societal and environmental health champion and a certified climate action strategy leader. The caliber and the overwhelming extent of this multitalented, extraordinary young leader's achievements and far-reaching impacts are staggering. Lauren's genius shines through in all her endeavors. She is a nationally award-winning published author, visual artist, and photo essayist, currently working on the publication of her first full-length novel. This inspiring changemaker will attend Harvard College, Yale University, or Brown University. She plans to major in Biology and minor in Creative Writing. She aspires to one day become a high-impact scholar and biologist who combines life sciences research and community teaching to inspire others to work to improve the world around us.
GPA: 4.00
High School: Gulliver Preparatory School
Heritage: Argentine
"My parents instilled in me a belief in the service of others and, through the church, I learned the importance of grace," says Coral Gables, Florida resident, Lauren. For this Latina of Argentine descent, children's educational issues and conservation and sustainability awareness and advocacy have been core passions that have guided her life purpose since she was younger. As early as elementary school, when, on her own initiative, she had the impetus to start a local fundraiser selling cookies she baked to help raise money to help homeless children purchase books to read, Lauren remembers sensing a calling to help her community and the world around her. She has since dedicated herself, heart and soul, to serving her community, driven by a sense of duty, gratitude, and purpose to be a servant leader. To give you a glimpse of an idea into how much Lauren has invested into creating tangible results in her community and beyond: to date, only counting her high school years, Lauren has recorded well over 2,000 hours of community service and has been recognized, as her school's associate director of college and guidance counseling would call it, by "an almost absurd number" of national and regional awards and honors for her faithful dedication and prolific contributions, including being twice recipient of the President's Volunteer Service Award Gold Medal. Among her abundant initiatives, Lauren has: developed a free peer-tutoring program where hundreds of volunteer tutors across all subject areas offer their services to students in her community; created a new organization within the local Audubon Society, a nonprofit environmental organization dedicated to the conservation of birds and their habitats, for younger generation conservationists with an active education and awareness participation of hundreds of children and families; and founded Our Bright World, a nonprofit that recognizes, encourages, and supports the ideas of teenagers working toward effecting real-world change. Lauren has also conducted volunteer research in botany and marine biology and spearheaded leadership and service activities while being a vocal societal and environmental health champion and a certified climate action strategy leader. The caliber and the overwhelming extent of this multitalented, extraordinary young leader's achievements and far-reaching impacts are staggering. Lauren's genius shines through in all her endeavors. She is a nationally award-winning published author, visual artist, and photo essayist, currently working on the publication of her first full-length novel. This inspiring changemaker will attend Harvard College, Yale University, or Brown University. She plans to major in Biology and minor in Creative Writing. She aspires to one day become a high-impact scholar and biologist who combines life sciences research and community teaching to inspire others to work to improve the world around us.
Silver - David Gad
Hometown: Alpharetta , GA
GPA: 4.00
High School: Denmark High School
Heritage: Argentine & Nigerian
David is the vice-president and co-founder of POWER Outreach Inc, a nonprofit that works to empower orphaned children and widowed women around the globe through education and resource assistance to help them move toward independence and self-sufficiency. Through his nonprofit, this Argentine Nigerian American has mobilized people within his community of Alpharetta, Georgia, to raise over twenty thousand dollars to sustain an orphanage in Abia, Nigeria, sponsor the orphans’ school tuition for the past four years, and support two rural schools attended by 600 children. David also contributes to his local community as a Forsyth County Board of Commissioners’ Youth Council member. As a council member, he advocates for his peers, recommends solutions to issues affecting his community, and works towards creating long-lasting improvements in his town. Last year, wanting to grow as a leader to make an even more significant impact in his community, David joined his county’s Youth Leadership Forsyth (YLF) leadership development and community awareness program. Through YLF, he assisted in community service activities across his city, like food drives for local shelters and writing greeting cards for patients at local hospitals, and met with local leaders and officials to learn more about how he could effect change in Forsyth County. David is a student at Denmark High School and has been serving as a Dane director—a teacher-nominated student leader—and a mentor for incoming freshmen at his school since his junior year. As a mentor, he helps new students adapt to their new environment and guides them as they consider possible career paths and navigate through potential AP classes, clubs, and honor societies. “My goal is to help them thrive during their high school years,” remarks David. When asked who inspires him to give back, he answers firm and sure: “mis abuelos.” They taught him the value of serving others when David was a child in his native Argentina. Even now, in his seventies, his “abuelo” continues his labor of giving back by preparing food to feed the homeless in the streets of Buenos Aires every Sunday. “Not even a pandemic stops him from serving others,” says David. “He is my hero, and his example has been my inspiration to make a difference in the lives of others,” he adds. A leader in his school community, David is a member of his school’s chapter of the Spanish National Honor Society and co-captain and goalkeeper of his school’s varsity men’s soccer team. He maintains a 4.0 GPA and has challenged himself academically with an array of AP courses throughout his high school career. He plans to study Business at Vanderbilt University, the University of Georgia, or Mercer University.
GPA: 4.00
High School: Denmark High School
Heritage: Argentine & Nigerian
David is the vice-president and co-founder of POWER Outreach Inc, a nonprofit that works to empower orphaned children and widowed women around the globe through education and resource assistance to help them move toward independence and self-sufficiency. Through his nonprofit, this Argentine Nigerian American has mobilized people within his community of Alpharetta, Georgia, to raise over twenty thousand dollars to sustain an orphanage in Abia, Nigeria, sponsor the orphans’ school tuition for the past four years, and support two rural schools attended by 600 children. David also contributes to his local community as a Forsyth County Board of Commissioners’ Youth Council member. As a council member, he advocates for his peers, recommends solutions to issues affecting his community, and works towards creating long-lasting improvements in his town. Last year, wanting to grow as a leader to make an even more significant impact in his community, David joined his county’s Youth Leadership Forsyth (YLF) leadership development and community awareness program. Through YLF, he assisted in community service activities across his city, like food drives for local shelters and writing greeting cards for patients at local hospitals, and met with local leaders and officials to learn more about how he could effect change in Forsyth County. David is a student at Denmark High School and has been serving as a Dane director—a teacher-nominated student leader—and a mentor for incoming freshmen at his school since his junior year. As a mentor, he helps new students adapt to their new environment and guides them as they consider possible career paths and navigate through potential AP classes, clubs, and honor societies. “My goal is to help them thrive during their high school years,” remarks David. When asked who inspires him to give back, he answers firm and sure: “mis abuelos.” They taught him the value of serving others when David was a child in his native Argentina. Even now, in his seventies, his “abuelo” continues his labor of giving back by preparing food to feed the homeless in the streets of Buenos Aires every Sunday. “Not even a pandemic stops him from serving others,” says David. “He is my hero, and his example has been my inspiration to make a difference in the lives of others,” he adds. A leader in his school community, David is a member of his school’s chapter of the Spanish National Honor Society and co-captain and goalkeeper of his school’s varsity men’s soccer team. He maintains a 4.0 GPA and has challenged himself academically with an array of AP courses throughout his high school career. He plans to study Business at Vanderbilt University, the University of Georgia, or Mercer University.
Bronze - Indira Singh
Hometown: Hialeah, FL
GPA: 3.54
High School: Jose Marti MAST Academy
Heritage: Ecuadorian, Peruvian, & Trinbagonian
Indira discovered the joy of helping others when she was little. "Throughout my childhood, I loved to help people around me," she recalls. At school or at home, whether it was by aiding her classmates with schoolwork, assisting her teachers with grading papers, helping her parents cook dinner, or guiding new students around her school, Indira was always diligent and continuously looked for ways to feel helpful. While she grew up taking pleasure in helping others, her high school experience opened her eyes to the importance of serving her community. In 2020, as COVID cases began to rise and lockdown measures went into effect the latter part of her sophomore year, Indira worried about how the changes would affect the development of children with learning disabilities. She knew that these children would struggle and that their academic development would suffer due to their sensitivity to routine changes. "These children [would be] unable to thrive academically or socially when forced to stay at home," she remembers thinking. "[R]ealizing this was a wake-up call for me," remarks Indira. She felt the need to help these children feel as normal as they could, despite the considerable changes they were facing. Indira was able to help as she had wanted to, thanks to Achieve Miami, a nonprofit organization that provides "meaningful educational and enrichment programs that demonstrate the power of students learning with and from each other." Through Achieve Miami, Indira participated in virtual teaching seminars and video conferences and also got to work one-on-one to help children improve their literacy skills. Seeing the impact of her work, not only by noticing the improvements the children she was helping were making but by seeing the way their faces lit up in virtual meetings and when they got to see their friends, even through a screen, inspired Indira to become more active in her community. After this experience, she joined her school's chapters of the Key Club, Interact Club, and Health Information Project, where she currently serves as president. No longer limited to working with children through a screen, last summer, Indira had the opportunity to volunteer at a summer camp program. Her involvement working with children and shadowing a speech-language pathologist through therapy sessions with a child on the autism spectrum throughout the duration of the summer camp, led Indira to discover her passion for helping children with speech and language disorders. This dedicated Latina with a kind disposition will attend the University of Florida, the University of Central Florida, or Florida International University. She wants to major in Communication Sciences and Disorders and minor in Nonprofit Management and plans to use what she learns to establish her own nonprofit. "My mission is to help kids with disabilities by providing them with the right resources and the strategies they need to learn, speak, and read," declares Indira.
GPA: 3.54
High School: Jose Marti MAST Academy
Heritage: Ecuadorian, Peruvian, & Trinbagonian
Indira discovered the joy of helping others when she was little. "Throughout my childhood, I loved to help people around me," she recalls. At school or at home, whether it was by aiding her classmates with schoolwork, assisting her teachers with grading papers, helping her parents cook dinner, or guiding new students around her school, Indira was always diligent and continuously looked for ways to feel helpful. While she grew up taking pleasure in helping others, her high school experience opened her eyes to the importance of serving her community. In 2020, as COVID cases began to rise and lockdown measures went into effect the latter part of her sophomore year, Indira worried about how the changes would affect the development of children with learning disabilities. She knew that these children would struggle and that their academic development would suffer due to their sensitivity to routine changes. "These children [would be] unable to thrive academically or socially when forced to stay at home," she remembers thinking. "[R]ealizing this was a wake-up call for me," remarks Indira. She felt the need to help these children feel as normal as they could, despite the considerable changes they were facing. Indira was able to help as she had wanted to, thanks to Achieve Miami, a nonprofit organization that provides "meaningful educational and enrichment programs that demonstrate the power of students learning with and from each other." Through Achieve Miami, Indira participated in virtual teaching seminars and video conferences and also got to work one-on-one to help children improve their literacy skills. Seeing the impact of her work, not only by noticing the improvements the children she was helping were making but by seeing the way their faces lit up in virtual meetings and when they got to see their friends, even through a screen, inspired Indira to become more active in her community. After this experience, she joined her school's chapters of the Key Club, Interact Club, and Health Information Project, where she currently serves as president. No longer limited to working with children through a screen, last summer, Indira had the opportunity to volunteer at a summer camp program. Her involvement working with children and shadowing a speech-language pathologist through therapy sessions with a child on the autism spectrum throughout the duration of the summer camp, led Indira to discover her passion for helping children with speech and language disorders. This dedicated Latina with a kind disposition will attend the University of Florida, the University of Central Florida, or Florida International University. She wants to major in Communication Sciences and Disorders and minor in Nonprofit Management and plans to use what she learns to establish her own nonprofit. "My mission is to help kids with disabilities by providing them with the right resources and the strategies they need to learn, speak, and read," declares Indira.
Education
GOLD - Dante Tomaselli
Hometown: Kennesaw, GA
GPA: 3.82
High School: North Cobb Christian School
Heritage: Colombian & Puerto Rican
“I love teaching kids and having a positive impact on their future careers,” says Kennesaw, Georgia resident and future educator, Dante. For the last year, he has been teaching online English classes to underprivileged children in Nicaragua while working as a volunteer for Outreach 360. Outreach 360 is a nonprofit organization that connects volunteers from across the globe with students throughout Latin America. Their program aims to break the cycle of poverty faced by children from disadvantaged backgrounds in the global south by empowering them through a multi-focused educational approach throughout their schooling—K-12. This organization has given Dante the opportunity to make an impact. It has also helped him hone his teaching skills and move closer to “becom[ing] the best teacher” by training him on fundamental teaching concepts. This Colombian-born Latino aspires to be an educator because he wants to make a difference and create a positive learning environment for his future students by supporting the unique learning needs of struggling students in order to help them overcome learning obstacles. “I feel like it is my calling,” shares Dante. He knows firsthand what it is like to have trouble paying attention and focusing in class, and rather than seeing it as a deterrent, he sees it as his superpower. He has had to work hard and has pushed himself through pure motivation and drive to overcome his learning struggles. Because of this, Dante says: “I feel like I can overcome anything, and that is what I want to instill in younger generation[s].” Dante does not only put forth his best effort to ensure academic success; he is also dedicated to a wide range of extra-curricular activities, including being a valued member of his school’s varsity swim team, concert band, and its chapter of the Spanish National Honor Society. This fall, he will attend the University of Georgia, Kennesaw State University, or Berry College. He plans to major in Education.
GPA: 3.82
High School: North Cobb Christian School
Heritage: Colombian & Puerto Rican
“I love teaching kids and having a positive impact on their future careers,” says Kennesaw, Georgia resident and future educator, Dante. For the last year, he has been teaching online English classes to underprivileged children in Nicaragua while working as a volunteer for Outreach 360. Outreach 360 is a nonprofit organization that connects volunteers from across the globe with students throughout Latin America. Their program aims to break the cycle of poverty faced by children from disadvantaged backgrounds in the global south by empowering them through a multi-focused educational approach throughout their schooling—K-12. This organization has given Dante the opportunity to make an impact. It has also helped him hone his teaching skills and move closer to “becom[ing] the best teacher” by training him on fundamental teaching concepts. This Colombian-born Latino aspires to be an educator because he wants to make a difference and create a positive learning environment for his future students by supporting the unique learning needs of struggling students in order to help them overcome learning obstacles. “I feel like it is my calling,” shares Dante. He knows firsthand what it is like to have trouble paying attention and focusing in class, and rather than seeing it as a deterrent, he sees it as his superpower. He has had to work hard and has pushed himself through pure motivation and drive to overcome his learning struggles. Because of this, Dante says: “I feel like I can overcome anything, and that is what I want to instill in younger generation[s].” Dante does not only put forth his best effort to ensure academic success; he is also dedicated to a wide range of extra-curricular activities, including being a valued member of his school’s varsity swim team, concert band, and its chapter of the Spanish National Honor Society. This fall, he will attend the University of Georgia, Kennesaw State University, or Berry College. He plans to major in Education.
Silver - Olivia Rumiche
Hometown: Cooper City, FL
GPA: 4.00
High School: Cooper City High School
Heritage: Peruvian
A conversation over dinner between Olivia, her mother, and her brother in mid-March 2020, as she along with students nationwide adjusted to new measures, including schools making the abrupt shift from in-person to online education, set the wheels in motion for this Peruvian American to begin her path towards becoming an educator. "My mother mentioned to my brother and me that some of the bilingual children she works with were struggling with online learning," she recalls. In that moment, an idea that had lingered between them for years, at last, began to put down roots when they decided to start a free tutoring service. After working out the necessary logistics—schedules, virtual teaching tools, video conference platforms, etc.—Stay Home Tutor was born. "[It] was officially a go, and we could begin changing lives one hour-long session at a time," shares Olivia. After spreading the word and distributing flyers in English and Spanish, it did not take long for them to pencil in their first lessons. Something else she had not anticipated also did not take long to emerge for Olivia. While helping struggling students in her community, she noted a concerning pattern. "I noticed a pattern of students slipping through the cracks and advancing in grades despite not being prepared for higher levels," reveals Olivia. She saw that the majority of the issues students were having did not take more than a few tutoring sessions to resolve. Yet, the education system had failed these students by prolonging their struggle, often for many years, while they failed classes, and worse, as they began to question and lose hope in their academic abilities. "'Why don't I get it? Am I just dumb?' [Are] [q]uestions no child should ever have to consider," decries Olivia. Coming to terms with this reality has set her on a mission. She wants to reform the education system beginning at its core and rethink entire curricula while ensuring students are not rushed along or encouraged to learn by rote memorization for the sole sake of a grade. She knows the road ahead in order to achieve her education reform goals will be long and hard, but she will fight for what students deserve, however long it takes. "Teachers [from] all walks of life know the look of delight on a child's face when they finally nail a concept that they have been struggling with comes with a feeling of pride second to none. That feeling, that accomplishment, is worth every second," remarks Olivia. This visionary and determined Latina leader has carried on tutoring with Stay Home Tutor even after her school has gone back to in-person classes. Despite the added commitment, she has maintained a 4.0 GPA through a rigorous academic schedule while completing Cambridge University's Advanced International Certificate of Education program. Olivia also serves as the president of her school's Poetry Club. Her club's sponsor shares, and we agree, that Olivia's "intelligence, compassion, eagerness, and self-determination are such that [he] absolutely know[s] she will achieve success." She will attend Pennsylvania State University, the University of Central Florida, or Yale University and plans to major in Education and minor in Mathematics.
GPA: 4.00
High School: Cooper City High School
Heritage: Peruvian
A conversation over dinner between Olivia, her mother, and her brother in mid-March 2020, as she along with students nationwide adjusted to new measures, including schools making the abrupt shift from in-person to online education, set the wheels in motion for this Peruvian American to begin her path towards becoming an educator. "My mother mentioned to my brother and me that some of the bilingual children she works with were struggling with online learning," she recalls. In that moment, an idea that had lingered between them for years, at last, began to put down roots when they decided to start a free tutoring service. After working out the necessary logistics—schedules, virtual teaching tools, video conference platforms, etc.—Stay Home Tutor was born. "[It] was officially a go, and we could begin changing lives one hour-long session at a time," shares Olivia. After spreading the word and distributing flyers in English and Spanish, it did not take long for them to pencil in their first lessons. Something else she had not anticipated also did not take long to emerge for Olivia. While helping struggling students in her community, she noted a concerning pattern. "I noticed a pattern of students slipping through the cracks and advancing in grades despite not being prepared for higher levels," reveals Olivia. She saw that the majority of the issues students were having did not take more than a few tutoring sessions to resolve. Yet, the education system had failed these students by prolonging their struggle, often for many years, while they failed classes, and worse, as they began to question and lose hope in their academic abilities. "'Why don't I get it? Am I just dumb?' [Are] [q]uestions no child should ever have to consider," decries Olivia. Coming to terms with this reality has set her on a mission. She wants to reform the education system beginning at its core and rethink entire curricula while ensuring students are not rushed along or encouraged to learn by rote memorization for the sole sake of a grade. She knows the road ahead in order to achieve her education reform goals will be long and hard, but she will fight for what students deserve, however long it takes. "Teachers [from] all walks of life know the look of delight on a child's face when they finally nail a concept that they have been struggling with comes with a feeling of pride second to none. That feeling, that accomplishment, is worth every second," remarks Olivia. This visionary and determined Latina leader has carried on tutoring with Stay Home Tutor even after her school has gone back to in-person classes. Despite the added commitment, she has maintained a 4.0 GPA through a rigorous academic schedule while completing Cambridge University's Advanced International Certificate of Education program. Olivia also serves as the president of her school's Poetry Club. Her club's sponsor shares, and we agree, that Olivia's "intelligence, compassion, eagerness, and self-determination are such that [he] absolutely know[s] she will achieve success." She will attend Pennsylvania State University, the University of Central Florida, or Yale University and plans to major in Education and minor in Mathematics.
Bronze - Nidia Carpio
Hometown: Lakeland, FL
GPA: 3.81
High School: Lakeland Christian School
Heritage: Dominican
"Standing in front of a classroom, with curious eyes gazing up at me and a group of young minds ready to soak up information: that is my ultimate goal," reveals Lakeland, Florida resident, Nidia. Teachers can be some of the most influential role models in a student's life, and for as long as she can remember, she has loved the idea of being able to impact and potentially mold students' lives in a way that will benefit them and influence who they grow up to be. For Nidia, it is about being part of that journey of growth. She knows that the duty of an educator goes beyond academic enrichment; that it is truly about wanting to make a positive difference in students' lives, no matter how small the impact. "The possibilities are endless when it comes to learning," she asserts. At the beginning of her freshman year, Nidia began to tutor struggling third through fifth-grade students. Though her main focus was to help them work through and understand their homework, wanting to see them succeed, she devised a teaching plan that would help them keep up with their peers. She worked with them on sight words, basic arithmetic, reading comprehension, and any other skill that would promote their progress. To keep her lessons exciting and engaging, she read and used games as teaching methods and offered them positive reinforcement to reward them for correct answers and encourage participation. Even before receiving any formal training, Nidia intuitively understood what her students needed to thrive in their learning process. Empathetic in her approach, she helped students for whom English was a second language become more confident in their speech and pronunciation. Although she was born in the US, she lived in the Dominican Republic for nine years, and helping these students improve their English was "was very dear to [her] heart." Through tutoring, Nidia has built deep bonds with her students and has been able to see them develop and progress academically. Currently, this Dominican American Latina works with students K-5 while volunteering for her school's after-school childcare program. This experience has helped her find her voice as a leader and has shown her the importance of using it assertively. "They can sense when I am slightly unsure of what decision to make or when I am simply not sure what to do next, which has taught me to lead confidently and not to allow my indecision to show," explains Nadia. A dedicated student, she has earned Highest Honor Roll recognitions throughout her high school career. Nadia is an active member of her school's chapter of the National Honor Society and its choir and ensemble. As part of these singing organizations, she has been recognized with the Greatest Improvement Award and the Psalmist Heart Award—the latter for demonstrating exceptional passion and sincerity when performing. This compassionate future educator will attend Southeastern University, Florida Southern College, or Polk State College. She plans to major in Elementary Education and minor in Psychology.
GPA: 3.81
High School: Lakeland Christian School
Heritage: Dominican
"Standing in front of a classroom, with curious eyes gazing up at me and a group of young minds ready to soak up information: that is my ultimate goal," reveals Lakeland, Florida resident, Nidia. Teachers can be some of the most influential role models in a student's life, and for as long as she can remember, she has loved the idea of being able to impact and potentially mold students' lives in a way that will benefit them and influence who they grow up to be. For Nidia, it is about being part of that journey of growth. She knows that the duty of an educator goes beyond academic enrichment; that it is truly about wanting to make a positive difference in students' lives, no matter how small the impact. "The possibilities are endless when it comes to learning," she asserts. At the beginning of her freshman year, Nidia began to tutor struggling third through fifth-grade students. Though her main focus was to help them work through and understand their homework, wanting to see them succeed, she devised a teaching plan that would help them keep up with their peers. She worked with them on sight words, basic arithmetic, reading comprehension, and any other skill that would promote their progress. To keep her lessons exciting and engaging, she read and used games as teaching methods and offered them positive reinforcement to reward them for correct answers and encourage participation. Even before receiving any formal training, Nidia intuitively understood what her students needed to thrive in their learning process. Empathetic in her approach, she helped students for whom English was a second language become more confident in their speech and pronunciation. Although she was born in the US, she lived in the Dominican Republic for nine years, and helping these students improve their English was "was very dear to [her] heart." Through tutoring, Nidia has built deep bonds with her students and has been able to see them develop and progress academically. Currently, this Dominican American Latina works with students K-5 while volunteering for her school's after-school childcare program. This experience has helped her find her voice as a leader and has shown her the importance of using it assertively. "They can sense when I am slightly unsure of what decision to make or when I am simply not sure what to do next, which has taught me to lead confidently and not to allow my indecision to show," explains Nadia. A dedicated student, she has earned Highest Honor Roll recognitions throughout her high school career. Nadia is an active member of her school's chapter of the National Honor Society and its choir and ensemble. As part of these singing organizations, she has been recognized with the Greatest Improvement Award and the Psalmist Heart Award—the latter for demonstrating exceptional passion and sincerity when performing. This compassionate future educator will attend Southeastern University, Florida Southern College, or Polk State College. She plans to major in Elementary Education and minor in Psychology.
Engineering
GOLD - Catalina Mous-Restrepo
Hometown: Weston, FL
GPA: 4.00
High School: Cypress Bay High School
Heritage: Colombian & Dutch
Last summer, Weston, Florida resident Catalina, was selected to attend Carnegie Mellon University’s Summer Academy for Math and Science Program (SAMS). This program, which seeks to prepare high-achieving students from underrepresented communities to transition into a STEM field in college, is regarded as one of the most well-rounded STEM internships for high school students. Not only was Catalina given the opportunity to explore entirely new, intriguing, and challenging topics while conducting a group research project under the guidance of a mentor, she was also able to get a leg up in the college application process through financial aid and admissions discussions and writing workshops focused on college applications preparation. “The project-based summer program gave me the possibility to learn, grow and discuss with students from around the world who were interested in a vast array of science topics,” shares Catalina. Thanks to the program, she expanded her capabilities by participating in quantitative and computational skill seminars. At the conclusion of the six-week program, Catalina and her group presented the findings of their research project at the SAMS Symposium titled “Chemistry Innovations in Sustainability, Materials, and Health,” which explored the connection between sustainable energy and chemistry innovation. “It made me consider different perspectives on how to face environmental challenges that are happening today,” remarks Catalina. This Latina of Colombian and Dutch descent is not only dedicated to scientific and academic pursuits; she is also an active member of her community. She has volunteered her time and talents to numerous causes and activities around her city, like helping with fundraising efforts for local causes and events and volunteering at three separate local hospitals, thanks to her involvement with several organizations at her school and beyond, including her school’s chapters of the National Honor Society, the Science National Honor Society, and Mu Alpha Theta. She is also president of her school’s Ecology Club and a member of its Health Occupations Student of America club, Habitat for Humanity, UNICEF, and the Marine Science Society. Wanting to be of service and help alleviate some of the stress her community was experiencing earlier on in the pandemic, Catalina offered free online tutoring to younger students in her town. She also became involved with a grassroots movement in her community that came together to help with mask-making and donation efforts when resources were still scarce. Fueled by her dedication to community service and her passion for innovation and scientific pursuits, Catalina is on a path to a bright future. She will attend the University of Pennsylvania, Georgetown University, or Carnegie Mellon University and plans to study Biomedical Sciences and Engineering.
GPA: 4.00
High School: Cypress Bay High School
Heritage: Colombian & Dutch
Last summer, Weston, Florida resident Catalina, was selected to attend Carnegie Mellon University’s Summer Academy for Math and Science Program (SAMS). This program, which seeks to prepare high-achieving students from underrepresented communities to transition into a STEM field in college, is regarded as one of the most well-rounded STEM internships for high school students. Not only was Catalina given the opportunity to explore entirely new, intriguing, and challenging topics while conducting a group research project under the guidance of a mentor, she was also able to get a leg up in the college application process through financial aid and admissions discussions and writing workshops focused on college applications preparation. “The project-based summer program gave me the possibility to learn, grow and discuss with students from around the world who were interested in a vast array of science topics,” shares Catalina. Thanks to the program, she expanded her capabilities by participating in quantitative and computational skill seminars. At the conclusion of the six-week program, Catalina and her group presented the findings of their research project at the SAMS Symposium titled “Chemistry Innovations in Sustainability, Materials, and Health,” which explored the connection between sustainable energy and chemistry innovation. “It made me consider different perspectives on how to face environmental challenges that are happening today,” remarks Catalina. This Latina of Colombian and Dutch descent is not only dedicated to scientific and academic pursuits; she is also an active member of her community. She has volunteered her time and talents to numerous causes and activities around her city, like helping with fundraising efforts for local causes and events and volunteering at three separate local hospitals, thanks to her involvement with several organizations at her school and beyond, including her school’s chapters of the National Honor Society, the Science National Honor Society, and Mu Alpha Theta. She is also president of her school’s Ecology Club and a member of its Health Occupations Student of America club, Habitat for Humanity, UNICEF, and the Marine Science Society. Wanting to be of service and help alleviate some of the stress her community was experiencing earlier on in the pandemic, Catalina offered free online tutoring to younger students in her town. She also became involved with a grassroots movement in her community that came together to help with mask-making and donation efforts when resources were still scarce. Fueled by her dedication to community service and her passion for innovation and scientific pursuits, Catalina is on a path to a bright future. She will attend the University of Pennsylvania, Georgetown University, or Carnegie Mellon University and plans to study Biomedical Sciences and Engineering.
Silver - Isabella Andrade
Hometown: Miami, FL
GPA: 3.97
High School: Immaculata-La Salle High School
Heritage: Colombian & Peruvian
Isabella decided she would become an Aerospace Engineer one not-too-distant Sunday morning. It was a segment about the Wright Brothers on Henry Ford’s Innovation Nation that lit the spark for this young Latina. Though, of course, she was already familiar with their story and their contributions, that morning, as the show walked the viewers through their accomplishments and their impact on the aviation industry, for the first time, Isabella became inspired by them. “This was the first time I knew I wanted to be like them,” she recalls. “Intrigued by a field of study that goes beyond the limits of the sky, I wanted to know more: aerospace engineering—I would study the small and large, from nanomaterials to interstellar space,” declared Isabella that morning. Though the Wright Brothers helped her decide her future career path, she credits her father for kindling her passion for engineering. He was the one who first encouraged her to apply to her high school’s STEAM program. Through this program, Isabella has gained hands-on engineering experience through robotics, CAD drawings, and design and development projects. She has put her engineering knowledge to use while interning at the Miami Children’s Museum, where she leads STEM-based activities for visiting students. “One of my most involved activities was an origami lesson of paper planes in which the students would learn the importance that art and math have in engineering,” shares Isabella. She learned about these intertwining concepts of design and mathematical practice while attending Carnegie Mellon University’s Summer Academy for Math and Science Program. Wanting to create a safe space and promote the involvement of women in STEM at her school, where the unwritten rule for the women to men ratio in her STEAM program classes has consistently been “[t]hree girls in a class full of guys,” Isabella founded and now leads her school’s Society of Women Engineers Next club. She is also an active member of her school’s Engineering Society and serves as the vice president of its Mu Alpha Theta chapter. Isabella maintains herself constantly involved with engineering events and activities, like attending the Introduce a Girl to Engineering Day at the University of Miami or her annual participation in her school’s Ingenious Generation event since it was first established. When talking about this dedicated future engineer, her school’s mathematics department chair and STEAM Engineering Focus coordinator and instructor says that “she is one of the most inspiring students [he] ha[s] ever met.” This truly remarkable young leader has excelled academically throughout her high school years. With a near-perfect 3.97 GPA, she will attend the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, the Georgia Institute of Technology, or the University of Miami while pursuing an Aerospace Engineering degree.
GPA: 3.97
High School: Immaculata-La Salle High School
Heritage: Colombian & Peruvian
Isabella decided she would become an Aerospace Engineer one not-too-distant Sunday morning. It was a segment about the Wright Brothers on Henry Ford’s Innovation Nation that lit the spark for this young Latina. Though, of course, she was already familiar with their story and their contributions, that morning, as the show walked the viewers through their accomplishments and their impact on the aviation industry, for the first time, Isabella became inspired by them. “This was the first time I knew I wanted to be like them,” she recalls. “Intrigued by a field of study that goes beyond the limits of the sky, I wanted to know more: aerospace engineering—I would study the small and large, from nanomaterials to interstellar space,” declared Isabella that morning. Though the Wright Brothers helped her decide her future career path, she credits her father for kindling her passion for engineering. He was the one who first encouraged her to apply to her high school’s STEAM program. Through this program, Isabella has gained hands-on engineering experience through robotics, CAD drawings, and design and development projects. She has put her engineering knowledge to use while interning at the Miami Children’s Museum, where she leads STEM-based activities for visiting students. “One of my most involved activities was an origami lesson of paper planes in which the students would learn the importance that art and math have in engineering,” shares Isabella. She learned about these intertwining concepts of design and mathematical practice while attending Carnegie Mellon University’s Summer Academy for Math and Science Program. Wanting to create a safe space and promote the involvement of women in STEM at her school, where the unwritten rule for the women to men ratio in her STEAM program classes has consistently been “[t]hree girls in a class full of guys,” Isabella founded and now leads her school’s Society of Women Engineers Next club. She is also an active member of her school’s Engineering Society and serves as the vice president of its Mu Alpha Theta chapter. Isabella maintains herself constantly involved with engineering events and activities, like attending the Introduce a Girl to Engineering Day at the University of Miami or her annual participation in her school’s Ingenious Generation event since it was first established. When talking about this dedicated future engineer, her school’s mathematics department chair and STEAM Engineering Focus coordinator and instructor says that “she is one of the most inspiring students [he] ha[s] ever met.” This truly remarkable young leader has excelled academically throughout her high school years. With a near-perfect 3.97 GPA, she will attend the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, the Georgia Institute of Technology, or the University of Miami while pursuing an Aerospace Engineering degree.
Bronze - Nicole Briceño
Hometown: Orlando, FL
GPA: 3.94
High School: Lake Nona High School
Heritage: Venezuelan & Spanish
Nicole’s introduction to the field of engineering came by way of her first computer science class her sophomore year. “Scanning through the classroom, my first impression was the male dominance sitting at each desk,” recalls Nicole. She enjoyed her class; found it “fun, interesting, and challenging,” but still, by the end of the year, as she learned about the gender gap in STEM, Nicole was inspired into action. Concerned about the little efforts from her school to recruit girls for enrollment into her computer science class for the following year, she reached out to her class professor. In her research, while learning more about the statistics of men far outnumbering women in STEM workplaces, Nicole had discovered Girls Who Code, an empowering nonprofit that works to inspire young women to pursue careers in STEM. When talking with her professor, she presented him with the idea of starting recruitment efforts to increase the number of girls in her class and of establishing a Girls Who Code club at her school to promote the interest of her female peers in programming by first inspiring their interest in STEM. Now in its third year, Nicole has been serving as the founder-president of her school’s Girls Who Code. “My passion for closing the gender gap prompted my perspective to view STEM careers as not a phase; they are a significant part of today’s society, and we deserve equally to be part of it,” declares Nicole. This Venezuelan Spanish American leader has proven herself to be an exemplary student. She maintains a 4.0 GPA and is ranked eighth out of 859 students in her graduating class, not to mention the long list of academic and community achievements and recognitions to her name. A dual-enrolled student, Nicole pushes herself above and beyond the expectations of a high school senior by not only taking college and high school classes, but by, in addition, working twenty hours a week as a student leader at her college campus and making time to pursue her passions and interests outside the classroom. Since eighth grade, she has committed her time and talents as a volunteer for the Orlando Science Center. “My fellow volunteers, supervisors, and staff [at the Orlando Science Center] have shaped me into who I am today; a compassionate, dedicated, and hardworking individual,” asserts Nicole. The Center’s mission “to inspire science learning for life” has, over her years of service, scientific exploration, and dedication to encouraging scientific curiosity and discovery, become a long-term commitment—a pledge—for this phenomenal Latina. Confident, community-focused, and exceptional in all her endeavors, Nicole will attend the Georgia Institute of Technology, the University of Florida, or the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. She plans to major in Computer Science and minor in Business.
GPA: 3.94
High School: Lake Nona High School
Heritage: Venezuelan & Spanish
Nicole’s introduction to the field of engineering came by way of her first computer science class her sophomore year. “Scanning through the classroom, my first impression was the male dominance sitting at each desk,” recalls Nicole. She enjoyed her class; found it “fun, interesting, and challenging,” but still, by the end of the year, as she learned about the gender gap in STEM, Nicole was inspired into action. Concerned about the little efforts from her school to recruit girls for enrollment into her computer science class for the following year, she reached out to her class professor. In her research, while learning more about the statistics of men far outnumbering women in STEM workplaces, Nicole had discovered Girls Who Code, an empowering nonprofit that works to inspire young women to pursue careers in STEM. When talking with her professor, she presented him with the idea of starting recruitment efforts to increase the number of girls in her class and of establishing a Girls Who Code club at her school to promote the interest of her female peers in programming by first inspiring their interest in STEM. Now in its third year, Nicole has been serving as the founder-president of her school’s Girls Who Code. “My passion for closing the gender gap prompted my perspective to view STEM careers as not a phase; they are a significant part of today’s society, and we deserve equally to be part of it,” declares Nicole. This Venezuelan Spanish American leader has proven herself to be an exemplary student. She maintains a 4.0 GPA and is ranked eighth out of 859 students in her graduating class, not to mention the long list of academic and community achievements and recognitions to her name. A dual-enrolled student, Nicole pushes herself above and beyond the expectations of a high school senior by not only taking college and high school classes, but by, in addition, working twenty hours a week as a student leader at her college campus and making time to pursue her passions and interests outside the classroom. Since eighth grade, she has committed her time and talents as a volunteer for the Orlando Science Center. “My fellow volunteers, supervisors, and staff [at the Orlando Science Center] have shaped me into who I am today; a compassionate, dedicated, and hardworking individual,” asserts Nicole. The Center’s mission “to inspire science learning for life” has, over her years of service, scientific exploration, and dedication to encouraging scientific curiosity and discovery, become a long-term commitment—a pledge—for this phenomenal Latina. Confident, community-focused, and exceptional in all her endeavors, Nicole will attend the Georgia Institute of Technology, the University of Florida, or the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. She plans to major in Computer Science and minor in Business.
Healthcare & Science
GOLD - Rogelio Figueredo
Hometown: Miami, FL
GPA: 4.00
High School: Miami Arts Studio at Zelda Glazer
Heritage: Cuban
Miami, Florida resident Rogelio has been an example of academic excellence throughout his high school career. Despite displaying his talents across all subjects he has undertaken, he has always considered science and health-related classes to be his strongest suits. As dedicated as he is to his academic achievements, Rogelio has also made serving his community a priority. A respected leader among his peers, he keeps himself involved in his community through service-oriented projects and volunteering as part of his participation in several organizations within and beyond his school. Some of his volunteer work has included donating his time to serve in different capacities at numerous farm shares, doing his part to keep local beaches clean through participating in beach cleanup efforts, and volunteering to help struggling students at his school while serving as a tutor. Rogelio serves as the secretary of his school’s Florida Law Honor Society chapter. He is a valued member of his school’s chapters of the National Honor Society, the Science National Honor Society, Psi Alpha, the National Society of High School Scholars (NSHSS), and Key Club, to name a few. As an ambassador for the College Board BigFuture program, Rogelio amplifies student voices to increase college and career access in schools across the country. He also informs his community and builds awareness of BigFuture college planning resources, including BigFuture Scholarships. He was selected to also serve as an NSHSS ambassador for his outstanding academics and strong commitment to community service. As an NSHSS ambassador, he spearheads service initiatives and encourages the community involvement of his fellow NSHSS members. Rogelio has also been an advocate for children and families and developed service-learning projects to benefit the members of his community while serving as a member of the Children’s Trust Youth Advisory Committee. For his tremendous contributions to his community and his academic distinction, this Cuban American Latino has received several recognitions and awards over the years, including the Harvard Book Award and the Civic Activism Award from the Children’s Trust Youth Advisory Committee. A tried and faithful servant leader, Rogelio will attend Florida International University, Harvard University, or Princeton University. He plans on majoring in Biochemistry and minoring in Business.
GPA: 4.00
High School: Miami Arts Studio at Zelda Glazer
Heritage: Cuban
Miami, Florida resident Rogelio has been an example of academic excellence throughout his high school career. Despite displaying his talents across all subjects he has undertaken, he has always considered science and health-related classes to be his strongest suits. As dedicated as he is to his academic achievements, Rogelio has also made serving his community a priority. A respected leader among his peers, he keeps himself involved in his community through service-oriented projects and volunteering as part of his participation in several organizations within and beyond his school. Some of his volunteer work has included donating his time to serve in different capacities at numerous farm shares, doing his part to keep local beaches clean through participating in beach cleanup efforts, and volunteering to help struggling students at his school while serving as a tutor. Rogelio serves as the secretary of his school’s Florida Law Honor Society chapter. He is a valued member of his school’s chapters of the National Honor Society, the Science National Honor Society, Psi Alpha, the National Society of High School Scholars (NSHSS), and Key Club, to name a few. As an ambassador for the College Board BigFuture program, Rogelio amplifies student voices to increase college and career access in schools across the country. He also informs his community and builds awareness of BigFuture college planning resources, including BigFuture Scholarships. He was selected to also serve as an NSHSS ambassador for his outstanding academics and strong commitment to community service. As an NSHSS ambassador, he spearheads service initiatives and encourages the community involvement of his fellow NSHSS members. Rogelio has also been an advocate for children and families and developed service-learning projects to benefit the members of his community while serving as a member of the Children’s Trust Youth Advisory Committee. For his tremendous contributions to his community and his academic distinction, this Cuban American Latino has received several recognitions and awards over the years, including the Harvard Book Award and the Civic Activism Award from the Children’s Trust Youth Advisory Committee. A tried and faithful servant leader, Rogelio will attend Florida International University, Harvard University, or Princeton University. He plans on majoring in Biochemistry and minoring in Business.
Silver - Nayeric Cairo
Hometown: Miami, FL
GPA: 3.78
High School: Pinecrest Preparatory Academy High School
Heritage: Cuban
Cuban native Nayeric shows exemplary focus, dedication, and love for the challenging subjects of STEM. Science, in particular, has always fascinated her, which has guided Nayeric to enroll in numerous demanding science classes throughout the course of her high school career. For example, she has taken Anatomy and Physiology courses as well as Project Lead the Way’s Principles of Biomedical Science and Human Body Systems courses. “These classes have allowed me to apply my knowledge through hands-on activities that keep me motivated and involved,” shares Nayeric. Her sophomore year, she took both AP Biology and AP Psychology. Taking these courses concurrently made an impact on Nayeric; it led her to discover the field of neuroscience, which has become one of her career aspirations and was the subject around which she based her AP Research project her junior year. Her AP Research paper “Implicit Learning of Motor Behavior Through Observation in Middle-School Students” was selected for publication in the Journal of Student Research. Her interest in science has also motivated several of her extracurricular and leadership pursuits. Nayeric serves as the president of her school’s Future Health Professionals (HOSA) club, is the secretary of its Science National Honor Society chapter, and is an active participant of its Mu Alpha Theta chapter and a pioneer in its STEM Leadership Team. Beyond her STEM-inspired pursuits and activities, Nayarec has dedicated herself to serving her community. As a dynamic member of her school’s Key Club and its Student Government Association, she contributes to the planning of school-wide events, like Red Ribbon Week for drug abuse prevention and Chemo Kits Kids Drive for children undergoing chemotherapy. She has also completed over 800 hours of independent community service, which has included working at children’s summer camps, adult community health centers, animal fostering programs, advocacy for awareness about conditions like autism spectrum disorder and cancer, and research clinics. Nayeric strives for excellence in all she does. She has undertaken a rigorous college-level curriculum, replete with several AP and dual enrollment courses, and is among the top students in her class. For her academic accomplishments in the sciences and her contributions to her community, she is her school’s science nominee for the Miami Herald’s Silver Knight Award. This diligent Latina has been selected as a semifinalist for the prestigious Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Scholarship. A big part of Nayaret’s identity is shaped by her experiences as an immigrant. This community leader has been living in the US for the last six years. It is inspiring to see how much she has accomplished and how far she has made it, through self-drive alone, in such a short time. Her greatest inspiration and the motivation behind her arduous commitment to succeed have been her parents. Nayeric will no doubt continue to make them proud as she grows in her achievements while pursuing degrees in Psychology and Neuroscience at the University of Florida, the University of Miami, or Florida International University.
GPA: 3.78
High School: Pinecrest Preparatory Academy High School
Heritage: Cuban
Cuban native Nayeric shows exemplary focus, dedication, and love for the challenging subjects of STEM. Science, in particular, has always fascinated her, which has guided Nayeric to enroll in numerous demanding science classes throughout the course of her high school career. For example, she has taken Anatomy and Physiology courses as well as Project Lead the Way’s Principles of Biomedical Science and Human Body Systems courses. “These classes have allowed me to apply my knowledge through hands-on activities that keep me motivated and involved,” shares Nayeric. Her sophomore year, she took both AP Biology and AP Psychology. Taking these courses concurrently made an impact on Nayeric; it led her to discover the field of neuroscience, which has become one of her career aspirations and was the subject around which she based her AP Research project her junior year. Her AP Research paper “Implicit Learning of Motor Behavior Through Observation in Middle-School Students” was selected for publication in the Journal of Student Research. Her interest in science has also motivated several of her extracurricular and leadership pursuits. Nayeric serves as the president of her school’s Future Health Professionals (HOSA) club, is the secretary of its Science National Honor Society chapter, and is an active participant of its Mu Alpha Theta chapter and a pioneer in its STEM Leadership Team. Beyond her STEM-inspired pursuits and activities, Nayarec has dedicated herself to serving her community. As a dynamic member of her school’s Key Club and its Student Government Association, she contributes to the planning of school-wide events, like Red Ribbon Week for drug abuse prevention and Chemo Kits Kids Drive for children undergoing chemotherapy. She has also completed over 800 hours of independent community service, which has included working at children’s summer camps, adult community health centers, animal fostering programs, advocacy for awareness about conditions like autism spectrum disorder and cancer, and research clinics. Nayeric strives for excellence in all she does. She has undertaken a rigorous college-level curriculum, replete with several AP and dual enrollment courses, and is among the top students in her class. For her academic accomplishments in the sciences and her contributions to her community, she is her school’s science nominee for the Miami Herald’s Silver Knight Award. This diligent Latina has been selected as a semifinalist for the prestigious Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Scholarship. A big part of Nayaret’s identity is shaped by her experiences as an immigrant. This community leader has been living in the US for the last six years. It is inspiring to see how much she has accomplished and how far she has made it, through self-drive alone, in such a short time. Her greatest inspiration and the motivation behind her arduous commitment to succeed have been her parents. Nayeric will no doubt continue to make them proud as she grows in her achievements while pursuing degrees in Psychology and Neuroscience at the University of Florida, the University of Miami, or Florida International University.
Bronze - Regina Piña
Hometown: Miami, FL
GPA: 4.00
High School: Coral Reef Senior High School
Heritage: Cuban & Spanish
Inspired by her parents' careers in her native Cuba—her father a scientist, her mother a doctor—Regina knew before the age of nine that she wanted to help people the same way they did: through science and medicine. After arriving in the US when she was eleven, Regina took note of the glaring differences in technological advances and medical practices in her new country of residence compared to her motherland. This made her even more excited and grew her curiosity and fascination with the medical field. Goal-oriented and driven, Regina carefully researched magnet schools that offered medical-vocational programs with the hopes of learning more and preparing herself for her future career when the time came for her to apply. One step closer to her ultimate goal, she started the Academy of Health Sciences program at Coral Reef High School her freshman year. Beginning with a challenging foundational course in ninth grade and continuing on, she has completed coursework in the health sciences each year, building a solid healthcare knowledge base. She has taken Health Science Foundations, Health Science Anatomy & Physiology, Allied Health Assisting, and Nursing Assisting courses, "in addition to other supplemental courses and experiences throughout her high school career. "All of [these classes] have prepared me to be a compassionate and well-rounded healthcare professional," she shares. She is motivated by an earnest curiosity and passion for learning and a deep desire to improve the health and the quality of life of the people around her. Working as an intern at a local surgical clinic, Regina has gained greater insight into the lives and careers of medical professionals like nurses, surgeons, and anesthesiologists. "My time at the clinic has taught me the true value of teamwork and communication within the healthcare field," she remarks. Since her freshman year, Regina has been a valuable member of her school's Future Health Professionals (HOSA) organization and has competed and placed at the district, regional, and state levels of HOSA competitions, taking home numerous awards. She has held several leadership roles, including serving as HOSA's co-president and regional vice president and being the vice president of her school's French Honor Society chapter. She is also an active member of her school's Key Club and an officer of its Science National Honor Society chapter. As HOSA co-president, she has worked with her peers to increase and encourage interest in the medical professions in her community. Inspired by her love for the healthcare field and her urgency to provide health education and increase literacy among the youth in her community, Regina founded HeartBeats Miami, a service project through which she teaches young people how to perform effective CPR and first aid. She thrives on empowering her peers in educating them on the importance of learning these techniques and better prepare them in the event of an emergency. With extraordinary time management skills, Regina achieved excellence in both academics and the helping professions. She stands among the top students in her class with a 4.0 GPA. For her community contributions and her academic achievements, Regina is her school's Medical-Vocational Technical nominee for the Miami Herald's Silver Knight Award. This dedicated future doctor will attend Duke University, Dartmouth College, or the University of Florida. She plans to major in Biology and Public Health and minor in Psychology.
GPA: 4.00
High School: Coral Reef Senior High School
Heritage: Cuban & Spanish
Inspired by her parents' careers in her native Cuba—her father a scientist, her mother a doctor—Regina knew before the age of nine that she wanted to help people the same way they did: through science and medicine. After arriving in the US when she was eleven, Regina took note of the glaring differences in technological advances and medical practices in her new country of residence compared to her motherland. This made her even more excited and grew her curiosity and fascination with the medical field. Goal-oriented and driven, Regina carefully researched magnet schools that offered medical-vocational programs with the hopes of learning more and preparing herself for her future career when the time came for her to apply. One step closer to her ultimate goal, she started the Academy of Health Sciences program at Coral Reef High School her freshman year. Beginning with a challenging foundational course in ninth grade and continuing on, she has completed coursework in the health sciences each year, building a solid healthcare knowledge base. She has taken Health Science Foundations, Health Science Anatomy & Physiology, Allied Health Assisting, and Nursing Assisting courses, "in addition to other supplemental courses and experiences throughout her high school career. "All of [these classes] have prepared me to be a compassionate and well-rounded healthcare professional," she shares. She is motivated by an earnest curiosity and passion for learning and a deep desire to improve the health and the quality of life of the people around her. Working as an intern at a local surgical clinic, Regina has gained greater insight into the lives and careers of medical professionals like nurses, surgeons, and anesthesiologists. "My time at the clinic has taught me the true value of teamwork and communication within the healthcare field," she remarks. Since her freshman year, Regina has been a valuable member of her school's Future Health Professionals (HOSA) organization and has competed and placed at the district, regional, and state levels of HOSA competitions, taking home numerous awards. She has held several leadership roles, including serving as HOSA's co-president and regional vice president and being the vice president of her school's French Honor Society chapter. She is also an active member of her school's Key Club and an officer of its Science National Honor Society chapter. As HOSA co-president, she has worked with her peers to increase and encourage interest in the medical professions in her community. Inspired by her love for the healthcare field and her urgency to provide health education and increase literacy among the youth in her community, Regina founded HeartBeats Miami, a service project through which she teaches young people how to perform effective CPR and first aid. She thrives on empowering her peers in educating them on the importance of learning these techniques and better prepare them in the event of an emergency. With extraordinary time management skills, Regina achieved excellence in both academics and the helping professions. She stands among the top students in her class with a 4.0 GPA. For her community contributions and her academic achievements, Regina is her school's Medical-Vocational Technical nominee for the Miami Herald's Silver Knight Award. This dedicated future doctor will attend Duke University, Dartmouth College, or the University of Florida. She plans to major in Biology and Public Health and minor in Psychology.
Media & Entertainment
GOLD - Angelina Green
Hometown: Doral, FL
GPA: 3.80
High School: New World School of the Arts
Heritage: Paraguayan
“One of my greatest dreams is becoming a world-renowned actress, walking the red carpet for the preview of my new movie,” shares Miami, Florida resident Angelina. A talented actress and singer, she has been a student at the prestigious New World School of the Arts since the ninth grade. Angelina is a humanitarian at heart. Coming from humble beginnings and having overcome many obstacles, she aspires to help others overcome their own hardships through music. In the course of her high school career, she has accumulated over 1,000 hours of community service. One of her proudest achievements through community service efforts has been being chosen by Phil Collins to become an ambassador for the Little Dreams Foundation (LDF) at the age of twelve. LDF is a nonprofit organization created by him, with the mission to fulfill the dreams of young talents with no financial means. As an ambassador, Angelina has performed at benefit galas and concerts at venues all over Miami, helping raise money to aid the foundation carry on its mission. “This project is extremely dear to my heart, considering I know exactly how it feels to have such big dreams but not the financial means to support [them],” remarks Angelina. “[B]eing able to [help] give these kids an opportunity to exercise their talent in order to develop it to their fullest potential is a priceless feeling,” she adds. She has been able to use her talents to help raise money to support the benevolent efforts of several other nonprofits. Another notable contribution has been through her work with the B+ Foundation, a nonprofit organization that fights against childhood cancer in partnership with Udance. In two years, Angelina helped raise more than two million dollars to contribute toward the fight against childhood cancer. She has also helped raise awareness about gun violence through music after recording “Live to See Another Day,” a song written by Rudy Perez and Burt Bacharach. All proceeds raised through performances, downloads, and purchases of “Live to See Another Day” were donated to the Sandy Hook Promise Foundation. This gifted artist developed a passion for music and theater at a young age. Some of her musical experiences include recurring guest performances with the Miami Symphony Orchestra, where she has performed with well-known artists such as Emilio Estefan, Sara Brightman, Ryan Tedder, and Adam. Last summer, Angelina was cast for the role of Nina on Nickelodeon’s California Dreaming pilot. “The show consisted of singing, dancing, and acting, bringing me the opportunity to record music in Ryan Tedder’s studio, the most recognized producer in the industry,” she shares. A momentous time in her career was when she received the Golden Buzzer from Heidi Klum on season 12 of NBC’s America’s Got Talent. This exposure launched her career all over the world. In January, she was announced as one of the members of Simon Fuller’s new pop group, The Future X. The Future X is set to open for Now United on tour starting this March. We are excited to see what big things are in store for this exceptional Paraguayan American talent.
GPA: 3.80
High School: New World School of the Arts
Heritage: Paraguayan
“One of my greatest dreams is becoming a world-renowned actress, walking the red carpet for the preview of my new movie,” shares Miami, Florida resident Angelina. A talented actress and singer, she has been a student at the prestigious New World School of the Arts since the ninth grade. Angelina is a humanitarian at heart. Coming from humble beginnings and having overcome many obstacles, she aspires to help others overcome their own hardships through music. In the course of her high school career, she has accumulated over 1,000 hours of community service. One of her proudest achievements through community service efforts has been being chosen by Phil Collins to become an ambassador for the Little Dreams Foundation (LDF) at the age of twelve. LDF is a nonprofit organization created by him, with the mission to fulfill the dreams of young talents with no financial means. As an ambassador, Angelina has performed at benefit galas and concerts at venues all over Miami, helping raise money to aid the foundation carry on its mission. “This project is extremely dear to my heart, considering I know exactly how it feels to have such big dreams but not the financial means to support [them],” remarks Angelina. “[B]eing able to [help] give these kids an opportunity to exercise their talent in order to develop it to their fullest potential is a priceless feeling,” she adds. She has been able to use her talents to help raise money to support the benevolent efforts of several other nonprofits. Another notable contribution has been through her work with the B+ Foundation, a nonprofit organization that fights against childhood cancer in partnership with Udance. In two years, Angelina helped raise more than two million dollars to contribute toward the fight against childhood cancer. She has also helped raise awareness about gun violence through music after recording “Live to See Another Day,” a song written by Rudy Perez and Burt Bacharach. All proceeds raised through performances, downloads, and purchases of “Live to See Another Day” were donated to the Sandy Hook Promise Foundation. This gifted artist developed a passion for music and theater at a young age. Some of her musical experiences include recurring guest performances with the Miami Symphony Orchestra, where she has performed with well-known artists such as Emilio Estefan, Sara Brightman, Ryan Tedder, and Adam. Last summer, Angelina was cast for the role of Nina on Nickelodeon’s California Dreaming pilot. “The show consisted of singing, dancing, and acting, bringing me the opportunity to record music in Ryan Tedder’s studio, the most recognized producer in the industry,” she shares. A momentous time in her career was when she received the Golden Buzzer from Heidi Klum on season 12 of NBC’s America’s Got Talent. This exposure launched her career all over the world. In January, she was announced as one of the members of Simon Fuller’s new pop group, The Future X. The Future X is set to open for Now United on tour starting this March. We are excited to see what big things are in store for this exceptional Paraguayan American talent.
Silver - Anthony Goenaga
Hometown: Miami Lakes, FL
GPA: 4.00
High School: Mater Performing Arts Academy
Heritage: Cuban
“I have been playing piano for others my entire life,” says Miami Lakes, Florida resident, Anthony. Back in his native Cuba, he was part of the Manuel Saumell Music Conservatory, where in his second year, he won the National Amadeo Roldan Piano Competition with mentions in best Cuban suit and best Latin American suit. After he migrated to the US, his parents enrolled him at the Miami Conservatory of Music. In his first year at the Conservatory, Anthony received third place in the Regional Steinway Piano Competition. Immediately after this, this gifted pianist founded the United Through Music Program to give back to his community. When it first started, the program conducted bi-weekly concerts at local retirement homes. Six months later, it expanded its services to include music therapy sessions. “I have dedicated most of my life to piano, and it has become one of the most important facets of my life,” remarks Anthony. In 2020, wanting to share his Cuban heritage through music, he applied to a number of the most prestigious piano competitions with a repertoire based on Cuban and Hispanic pieces and composers. His efforts were rewarded when he went on to become a finalist on the National Steinway Competition, a finalist on the International Piano League, and Top 20 worldwide in the International Nomea Competition. He was given the platform to express his cultural heritage in the form of music in competitions around the world. Around September last year, Anthony was selected as a semi-finalist for the James Mottram International Competition held in Manchester, England, and got to entertain a live audience in Britain with a Cuban repertoire. One of Anthony’s artistic missions is to transform “gloom into joy” through music. This is what led him to start the United Through Music Program. Playing the piano is how this artist makes an impact in his community. “I think that my main inspirations to give back is the simple fact that I can do it; however, what makes me pursue that path is the memories one makes in the journey: being able to make others smile expecting nothing in return makes you realize that the real goal of our journey is completely different than what is planned,” remarks Anthony. A student at the Mater Performing Arts Academy, this exceptional young Latino will leave his mark at his school. When speaking about him, his AP Spanish Language & Literature teacher shares that he believes that Anthony “is the first profoundly gifted individual to have walked through the hallways of [his] school.” Anthony has excelled in every pursuit he has undertaken. He has shown an extraordinary aptitude for mathematics and the sciences and has exhausted all available STEM classes at his school. He has continued advancing his STEM knowledge by taking courses at local universities as a dual-enrolled student. Although there are few opportunities for STEM-related activities at his school, Anthony forged his own path and founded his school’s chapter of Mu Alpha Theta his junior year. Among the top students in his class, Anthony maintains a perfect 4.0 GPA. He will attend the University of Florida, the University of Miami, or Florida International University. He plans to study Mechanical Engineering.
GPA: 4.00
High School: Mater Performing Arts Academy
Heritage: Cuban
“I have been playing piano for others my entire life,” says Miami Lakes, Florida resident, Anthony. Back in his native Cuba, he was part of the Manuel Saumell Music Conservatory, where in his second year, he won the National Amadeo Roldan Piano Competition with mentions in best Cuban suit and best Latin American suit. After he migrated to the US, his parents enrolled him at the Miami Conservatory of Music. In his first year at the Conservatory, Anthony received third place in the Regional Steinway Piano Competition. Immediately after this, this gifted pianist founded the United Through Music Program to give back to his community. When it first started, the program conducted bi-weekly concerts at local retirement homes. Six months later, it expanded its services to include music therapy sessions. “I have dedicated most of my life to piano, and it has become one of the most important facets of my life,” remarks Anthony. In 2020, wanting to share his Cuban heritage through music, he applied to a number of the most prestigious piano competitions with a repertoire based on Cuban and Hispanic pieces and composers. His efforts were rewarded when he went on to become a finalist on the National Steinway Competition, a finalist on the International Piano League, and Top 20 worldwide in the International Nomea Competition. He was given the platform to express his cultural heritage in the form of music in competitions around the world. Around September last year, Anthony was selected as a semi-finalist for the James Mottram International Competition held in Manchester, England, and got to entertain a live audience in Britain with a Cuban repertoire. One of Anthony’s artistic missions is to transform “gloom into joy” through music. This is what led him to start the United Through Music Program. Playing the piano is how this artist makes an impact in his community. “I think that my main inspirations to give back is the simple fact that I can do it; however, what makes me pursue that path is the memories one makes in the journey: being able to make others smile expecting nothing in return makes you realize that the real goal of our journey is completely different than what is planned,” remarks Anthony. A student at the Mater Performing Arts Academy, this exceptional young Latino will leave his mark at his school. When speaking about him, his AP Spanish Language & Literature teacher shares that he believes that Anthony “is the first profoundly gifted individual to have walked through the hallways of [his] school.” Anthony has excelled in every pursuit he has undertaken. He has shown an extraordinary aptitude for mathematics and the sciences and has exhausted all available STEM classes at his school. He has continued advancing his STEM knowledge by taking courses at local universities as a dual-enrolled student. Although there are few opportunities for STEM-related activities at his school, Anthony forged his own path and founded his school’s chapter of Mu Alpha Theta his junior year. Among the top students in his class, Anthony maintains a perfect 4.0 GPA. He will attend the University of Florida, the University of Miami, or Florida International University. He plans to study Mechanical Engineering.
Bronze - Marbella Deininger
Hometown: Lake Worth, FL
GPA: 3.92
High School: Alexander W. Dreyfoos School of the Arts
Heritage: Puerto Rican & Mohawk
“Music has been a passion I have been cultivating throughout my life,” shares Lake Worth, Florida resident Marbella, who found her creativity outled through music at an early age. Singing has opened doors for this Latina of Puerto Rican and Mohawk descent. It has given her the opportunity to perform at some of the most prestigious stages, like Carnegie Hall and Chicago Symphony Hall. Music has also given Marbella the platform to perform for a number of world leaders, including President Biden and First Lady of China Madame Peng-Liyuan. Marbella’s intellectual and artistic talents and interests revolve around classical and opera vocal performance as well as architecture and the fine arts. She has found ways to give back to her community through her art and has contributed more than 250 hours of service. Some of the ways in which Marbella has given back have been by singing at mass and local charity events representing the Young Singers of the Palm Beaches Community Choir or the Palm Beach Opera Studio Artists. Other occasions where she has given back to her community over the years include annual events like the Race for the Cure and several holiday performances across her town. Having had a health scare last year where her vision was temporarily affected, Marbella has become an active volunteer for the Be My Eyes app, providing visual assistance through a live video connection to blind and low vision users. When thinking about her future career, Marbella reveals: “My love for music has inspired me to follow a career in the Arts. But as much as I hold music close to my heart, I also want to become an architect.” Her plan is to pursue both careers and find a way to merge them into a dream career. Contributing to her community helped Marbella find her voice and her confidence. “[It] enabled me to grow from a shy young girl into a confident woman that can accomplish what she sets [her] mind to,” she explains. She would like to one day start a nonprofit foundation to mentor young women academically and artistically and instill in them the power and value of being of service. Marbella is an active member of her school’s National Honor Society chapter and serves as the secretary of her school’s chapter of the National English Honor Society. With high aspirations and ambition, Marbella maintains a near-perfect 3.92 GPA and will attend the University of Notre Dame, Columbia University, or New York University. She plans to major in Music Vocal Performance and Architecture.
GPA: 3.92
High School: Alexander W. Dreyfoos School of the Arts
Heritage: Puerto Rican & Mohawk
“Music has been a passion I have been cultivating throughout my life,” shares Lake Worth, Florida resident Marbella, who found her creativity outled through music at an early age. Singing has opened doors for this Latina of Puerto Rican and Mohawk descent. It has given her the opportunity to perform at some of the most prestigious stages, like Carnegie Hall and Chicago Symphony Hall. Music has also given Marbella the platform to perform for a number of world leaders, including President Biden and First Lady of China Madame Peng-Liyuan. Marbella’s intellectual and artistic talents and interests revolve around classical and opera vocal performance as well as architecture and the fine arts. She has found ways to give back to her community through her art and has contributed more than 250 hours of service. Some of the ways in which Marbella has given back have been by singing at mass and local charity events representing the Young Singers of the Palm Beaches Community Choir or the Palm Beach Opera Studio Artists. Other occasions where she has given back to her community over the years include annual events like the Race for the Cure and several holiday performances across her town. Having had a health scare last year where her vision was temporarily affected, Marbella has become an active volunteer for the Be My Eyes app, providing visual assistance through a live video connection to blind and low vision users. When thinking about her future career, Marbella reveals: “My love for music has inspired me to follow a career in the Arts. But as much as I hold music close to my heart, I also want to become an architect.” Her plan is to pursue both careers and find a way to merge them into a dream career. Contributing to her community helped Marbella find her voice and her confidence. “[It] enabled me to grow from a shy young girl into a confident woman that can accomplish what she sets [her] mind to,” she explains. She would like to one day start a nonprofit foundation to mentor young women academically and artistically and instill in them the power and value of being of service. Marbella is an active member of her school’s National Honor Society chapter and serves as the secretary of her school’s chapter of the National English Honor Society. With high aspirations and ambition, Marbella maintains a near-perfect 3.92 GPA and will attend the University of Notre Dame, Columbia University, or New York University. She plans to major in Music Vocal Performance and Architecture.
Public Service & Social Justice
GOLD - Rita Shuster
Hometown: Hollywood, FL
GPA: 4.00
High School: NSU University School
Heritage: Venezuelan & Mexican
The concept of social justice has captivated West Palm Beach, Florida resident Rita from an early age. “[T]his topic helped bring my family and I closer together,” she recalls. Whether it was her interest in the environment, her father’s interest in domestic policy, or her mother’s interest in foreign affairs pertaining to her home country of Venezuela, politics helped them bond. Her lively interest in political science and social advocacy led Rita to take on mock congressional debate at the international level after attaining national ranking. “Debating against other politically-involved high schoolers sparked adrenaline in me,” shares Rita. She has also become passionate about voting, which has led her to create her own podcast, “Voting Equals Democracy.” Through “Voting Equals Democracy,” Rita educates her audience on the importance of voting. During the 2020 presidential race, she became the country’s youngest intern for the Biden-Harris Finance Team, where she helped plan campaign fundraisers. Rita also worked with the Florida Democratic Party to ensure that her home state had everything it needed for its residents to vote as intended. “Advocating for my beliefs comes natural[ly] to me, and I am proud to be a leader in my community,” remarks this Latina leader. A cause that hits close to home for Rita is her advocacy against gun violence. Wanting to fight locally and be active while advocating for gun reform that would stop another instance of gun violence from occurring at any of the nation’s educational institutions, Rita established Kids Against Gun Violence, a nonpartisan group that works to organize marches standing against gun violence. Being active in her community is second nature for this Venezuelan Mexican American. Upon learning about poverty when she was ten years old, for example, she organized a school-wide event to raise funds to tackle poverty. She sold little toys to her classmates and managed to raise over one thousand dollars, which she donated to an organization combating poverty. Similarly, she has organized marches, fundraisers, and raised awareness for numerous causes over the years. Waiting for someone else to take action is not an option for this dedicated activist when it comes to issues that she cares about. For Rita, being an advocate for causes that matter to her is not an option; it is a moral and civic duty she diligently takes on. Rita is a model student. She has challenged herself academically throughout her high school career and holds a perfect 4.0 GPA. She will attend Georgetown University, Columbia University, or Harvard University and plans to major in Political Science.
GPA: 4.00
High School: NSU University School
Heritage: Venezuelan & Mexican
The concept of social justice has captivated West Palm Beach, Florida resident Rita from an early age. “[T]his topic helped bring my family and I closer together,” she recalls. Whether it was her interest in the environment, her father’s interest in domestic policy, or her mother’s interest in foreign affairs pertaining to her home country of Venezuela, politics helped them bond. Her lively interest in political science and social advocacy led Rita to take on mock congressional debate at the international level after attaining national ranking. “Debating against other politically-involved high schoolers sparked adrenaline in me,” shares Rita. She has also become passionate about voting, which has led her to create her own podcast, “Voting Equals Democracy.” Through “Voting Equals Democracy,” Rita educates her audience on the importance of voting. During the 2020 presidential race, she became the country’s youngest intern for the Biden-Harris Finance Team, where she helped plan campaign fundraisers. Rita also worked with the Florida Democratic Party to ensure that her home state had everything it needed for its residents to vote as intended. “Advocating for my beliefs comes natural[ly] to me, and I am proud to be a leader in my community,” remarks this Latina leader. A cause that hits close to home for Rita is her advocacy against gun violence. Wanting to fight locally and be active while advocating for gun reform that would stop another instance of gun violence from occurring at any of the nation’s educational institutions, Rita established Kids Against Gun Violence, a nonpartisan group that works to organize marches standing against gun violence. Being active in her community is second nature for this Venezuelan Mexican American. Upon learning about poverty when she was ten years old, for example, she organized a school-wide event to raise funds to tackle poverty. She sold little toys to her classmates and managed to raise over one thousand dollars, which she donated to an organization combating poverty. Similarly, she has organized marches, fundraisers, and raised awareness for numerous causes over the years. Waiting for someone else to take action is not an option for this dedicated activist when it comes to issues that she cares about. For Rita, being an advocate for causes that matter to her is not an option; it is a moral and civic duty she diligently takes on. Rita is a model student. She has challenged herself academically throughout her high school career and holds a perfect 4.0 GPA. She will attend Georgetown University, Columbia University, or Harvard University and plans to major in Political Science.
Silver - Anayre Martínez
Hometown: Miami, FL
GPA: 3.90
High School: Miami Arts Studio at Zelda Glazer
Heritage: Cuban
For Miami, Florida resident Anayre, serving her community is an outlet: "[g]iving back to the community is an escape for me, she says. Knowing that she holds the power to make a difference in someone's life by simply dedicating a few hours of her day to them astounds and inspires her. When she was younger, Anayre started giving back to her community in the form of donations of clothes and toys to help low-income homes. "[T]hat started a spark in me that has led to me to have over 800 community service hours in my high school [career]," shares Anayre. Being of service has taken many forms for this young Cuban American. After helping her community through donations, she moved on to volunteering to help struggling students while serving as a tutor. "There is nothing more beautiful than helping a little kid understand a math problem they had been working on for hours. Their smile, their joy, it is irreplaceable," remarks Anayre. In high school, her involvement in various service organizations and taking community service electives opened up a new realm of possibilities for her. As she has grown in her volunteering experience and her confidence as a leader, Anayre's approach to community service has evolved. The service opportunities and projects she has organized for her community have doubled as advocacy efforts, promoting causes she cares about and fighting against those she wants to change. Through her community service project—A Second First Chance—she has advocated against youth substance abuse and has worked to empower teenagers to fight and work for a better future for themselves. With A Second First Chance, Anayre has organized efforts to engage high-risk youth to paint inspirational murals at their schools. This Latina leader is highly active in her community, both at school and at large. At school, she has managed to find the perfect balance between her rigorous academic schedule and the demands of her extracurricular activities. She is a valuable member of several school organizations, including her school's chapters of the National English Honor Society, the Rho Kappa National Social Studies Honor Society, the Florida Law Honor Society, the Science National Honor Society, the Speech and Debate Honor Society, Quill and Scroll, and Mu Alpha Theta. As if that were not impressive enough, Anayre holds leadership positions in numerous of these organizations. Leaving her mark and making notable contributions to her community has been central to this dedicated servant leader's high school years. With a 3.90 cumulative GPA and an array of awards and recognitions for her academic achievements and remarkable community involvement, Anayre will attend Harvard University, the University of Miami, or Florida International University. She plans to study International Affairs and Finance.
GPA: 3.90
High School: Miami Arts Studio at Zelda Glazer
Heritage: Cuban
For Miami, Florida resident Anayre, serving her community is an outlet: "[g]iving back to the community is an escape for me, she says. Knowing that she holds the power to make a difference in someone's life by simply dedicating a few hours of her day to them astounds and inspires her. When she was younger, Anayre started giving back to her community in the form of donations of clothes and toys to help low-income homes. "[T]hat started a spark in me that has led to me to have over 800 community service hours in my high school [career]," shares Anayre. Being of service has taken many forms for this young Cuban American. After helping her community through donations, she moved on to volunteering to help struggling students while serving as a tutor. "There is nothing more beautiful than helping a little kid understand a math problem they had been working on for hours. Their smile, their joy, it is irreplaceable," remarks Anayre. In high school, her involvement in various service organizations and taking community service electives opened up a new realm of possibilities for her. As she has grown in her volunteering experience and her confidence as a leader, Anayre's approach to community service has evolved. The service opportunities and projects she has organized for her community have doubled as advocacy efforts, promoting causes she cares about and fighting against those she wants to change. Through her community service project—A Second First Chance—she has advocated against youth substance abuse and has worked to empower teenagers to fight and work for a better future for themselves. With A Second First Chance, Anayre has organized efforts to engage high-risk youth to paint inspirational murals at their schools. This Latina leader is highly active in her community, both at school and at large. At school, she has managed to find the perfect balance between her rigorous academic schedule and the demands of her extracurricular activities. She is a valuable member of several school organizations, including her school's chapters of the National English Honor Society, the Rho Kappa National Social Studies Honor Society, the Florida Law Honor Society, the Science National Honor Society, the Speech and Debate Honor Society, Quill and Scroll, and Mu Alpha Theta. As if that were not impressive enough, Anayre holds leadership positions in numerous of these organizations. Leaving her mark and making notable contributions to her community has been central to this dedicated servant leader's high school years. With a 3.90 cumulative GPA and an array of awards and recognitions for her academic achievements and remarkable community involvement, Anayre will attend Harvard University, the University of Miami, or Florida International University. She plans to study International Affairs and Finance.
Bronze - Ailen Ontivero
Hometown: Hialeah, FL
GPA: 3.70
High School: Mater Academy Charter High School
Heritage: Cuban
Hialeah, Florida resident Ailen, has wanted to become an attorney since she was a young child: “[a]s a small child I knew I wanted to become an attorney of some sort, helping people and changing their lives for the better,” she shares. Once in high school, Ailen sought opportunities that would help her contribute to her community while also helping her gain experience that would prepare her for her future career. She has been involved with her school’s Law Society since her freshman year. Ailen has participated in the Law Society’s annual Mock Trial Competitions, earning third place year after year. She also seized the opportunity to take law classes starting her freshman year. Thanks to this class, Ailen confirmed her passion for learning about law and further confirmed that she wanted to dedicate her life to advocating for others and fighting for justice. She has volunteered at the Hialeah City Hall Annual Teen Court, a juvenile justice diversion program, where she served as a student attorney and defended local misdemeanor youth offenders while learning about actual court environment and procedures. As a student attorney, Ailen’s goal was to get her clients acquitted with mandatory community service hours rather than having them sentenced to juvenile detention. After joining her school’s Model United Nations, Ailen realized that she wanted to pursue a career in international relations and one day serve as a diplomat. “There’s a lot I would like to change in our justice system,” shares future attorney and diplomat Ailen. “There’s a lot of change I would love to bring to this country and our government as well as to my community,” she adds. For this Latina leader, the first step in that direction is “tak[ing] a leap and believ[ing] in [her]self.” Next, she would like to volunteer at her local courthouse, “shadowing judges, filing for them, or simply just watching a case.” Ailen serves as the vice president of her school’s Law Society and is the president of its Turning Point USA. This Cuban American young leader has big aspirations and an even bigger drive to succeed. She will attend Carnegie Mellon University, Florida International University, or the University of Texas at Austin. She plans to major in International Relations and minor in Political Science.
GPA: 3.70
High School: Mater Academy Charter High School
Heritage: Cuban
Hialeah, Florida resident Ailen, has wanted to become an attorney since she was a young child: “[a]s a small child I knew I wanted to become an attorney of some sort, helping people and changing their lives for the better,” she shares. Once in high school, Ailen sought opportunities that would help her contribute to her community while also helping her gain experience that would prepare her for her future career. She has been involved with her school’s Law Society since her freshman year. Ailen has participated in the Law Society’s annual Mock Trial Competitions, earning third place year after year. She also seized the opportunity to take law classes starting her freshman year. Thanks to this class, Ailen confirmed her passion for learning about law and further confirmed that she wanted to dedicate her life to advocating for others and fighting for justice. She has volunteered at the Hialeah City Hall Annual Teen Court, a juvenile justice diversion program, where she served as a student attorney and defended local misdemeanor youth offenders while learning about actual court environment and procedures. As a student attorney, Ailen’s goal was to get her clients acquitted with mandatory community service hours rather than having them sentenced to juvenile detention. After joining her school’s Model United Nations, Ailen realized that she wanted to pursue a career in international relations and one day serve as a diplomat. “There’s a lot I would like to change in our justice system,” shares future attorney and diplomat Ailen. “There’s a lot of change I would love to bring to this country and our government as well as to my community,” she adds. For this Latina leader, the first step in that direction is “tak[ing] a leap and believ[ing] in [her]self.” Next, she would like to volunteer at her local courthouse, “shadowing judges, filing for them, or simply just watching a case.” Ailen serves as the vice president of her school’s Law Society and is the president of its Turning Point USA. This Cuban American young leader has big aspirations and an even bigger drive to succeed. She will attend Carnegie Mellon University, Florida International University, or the University of Texas at Austin. She plans to major in International Relations and minor in Political Science.
Sports & Fitness
GOLD - Karina Manrique
Hometown: Weston, FL
GPA: 3.78
High School: Cypress Bay High School
Heritage: Venezuelan & Spanish
Karina Manrique is a highly dedicated athlete. As a child, she quickly advanced through the available swim lessons and qualified for the YMCA Broward County Swim team at only 6 years old. Since then, she is a four-time varsity letter holder and has qualified for both the district and regional meets all four years of high school. Karina’s senior year, she was not only named one of the Varsity captains, but was also one of the top 24 swimmers in her event, which qualified her for the 4A State meet. Besides swimming for her high school, Karina has swum with YMCA South Florida and her current team, Midtown Weston Aquatics. At these competitive swim clubs, she has competed at the Florida Gold Coast Junior Olympics, Florida All Stars Meet, Spring and Summer Senior Championships and the Speedo Sectionals. On her current team, she was able to represent and swim for Venezuela. Karina credits her grandmother for her dedication to community service. Ever since she was little, her grandmother taught her the importance of giving back and being grateful for the life that you have. Karina has been heavily involved in a non-profit organization called Zoeros Foundation. While they do great work year-round, their busiest time is during the holiday season where they give out bags of food and toys for the children. Her work at this non-profit taught her that doing something seemingly small for someone else, can have a huge impact on their life. Besides being a highly decorated swimmer, Karina has also excelled in the classroom, taking a rigorous course load of AP science and medical courses. Karina’s Allied Health and EKG teacher, describes Karina as a dedicated student with an obvious passion for health care, which is not only seen in her high marks, but in her eagerness to start clinicals, which are part of the curriculum for all medical students. Karina is of Venezuelan and Spanish descent and has an impressive 3.78 GPA. Karina will be going to Saint Thomas University to study Natural Sciences with an allied health and rehabilitative services concentration, which would allow her to become a physician’s assistant with a focus on sports medicine so she can help athletes in the future.
GPA: 3.78
High School: Cypress Bay High School
Heritage: Venezuelan & Spanish
Karina Manrique is a highly dedicated athlete. As a child, she quickly advanced through the available swim lessons and qualified for the YMCA Broward County Swim team at only 6 years old. Since then, she is a four-time varsity letter holder and has qualified for both the district and regional meets all four years of high school. Karina’s senior year, she was not only named one of the Varsity captains, but was also one of the top 24 swimmers in her event, which qualified her for the 4A State meet. Besides swimming for her high school, Karina has swum with YMCA South Florida and her current team, Midtown Weston Aquatics. At these competitive swim clubs, she has competed at the Florida Gold Coast Junior Olympics, Florida All Stars Meet, Spring and Summer Senior Championships and the Speedo Sectionals. On her current team, she was able to represent and swim for Venezuela. Karina credits her grandmother for her dedication to community service. Ever since she was little, her grandmother taught her the importance of giving back and being grateful for the life that you have. Karina has been heavily involved in a non-profit organization called Zoeros Foundation. While they do great work year-round, their busiest time is during the holiday season where they give out bags of food and toys for the children. Her work at this non-profit taught her that doing something seemingly small for someone else, can have a huge impact on their life. Besides being a highly decorated swimmer, Karina has also excelled in the classroom, taking a rigorous course load of AP science and medical courses. Karina’s Allied Health and EKG teacher, describes Karina as a dedicated student with an obvious passion for health care, which is not only seen in her high marks, but in her eagerness to start clinicals, which are part of the curriculum for all medical students. Karina is of Venezuelan and Spanish descent and has an impressive 3.78 GPA. Karina will be going to Saint Thomas University to study Natural Sciences with an allied health and rehabilitative services concentration, which would allow her to become a physician’s assistant with a focus on sports medicine so she can help athletes in the future.
Silver - Elaisa Villar
Hometown: Hialeah, FL
GPA: 4.00
High School: Mater Academy Charter High School
Heritage: Cuban
When Cuban American Elaisa began training volleyball at the age of ten, she did not anticipate the impact the sport would have on her life. Over half a decade later, after having volunteered as an assistant coach at her local volleyball club, training young girls and boys learning the fundamentals of the game, Elaisa now realizes how much the sports world has impacted her and her values as both an athlete and as a person. This realization has motivated her to want to be a role model for the children she trains in her community. She wants to inspire them to continue pursuing the sport so they too can reap the benefits of their dedication one day the way Elaisa has been able to. This Latina athlete has been her team’s captain for the past six years. She has aided her teammates to multiple national and state championships for both her travel volleyball team and high school volleyball team. Elaisa is proof that there’s no substitute for hard work and perseverance. She has been an exemplary leader for as long as she has been with her team. First to practice and last to leave, she leads by example and expects the same from her teammates. Such is their dedication, that despite not having a gym to practice in on campus and playing the season on the road, Elaisa’s team earned their state championship last season. What makes this Latina athlete stand out from among other athletes, is that as invested as she is in her sport and the success of her team, she has learned to translate and mirror the same commitment to all her pursuits. She takes no shortcuts, be it as an athlete or a student. As much as she has challenged herself to grow into the athlete she has become, she has also taken on a rigorous academic program, replete with AP classes and accompanied by a perfect 4.0 GPA and numerous awards and honors in recognition of her achievements as a student athlete. This remarkable Latina has committed to play volleyball for North Carolina State University’s women’s volleyball team. She will work towards earning a degree in Sports Management of Business in hopes of accomplishing her goals of becoming a division one volleyball coach or a volleyball club owner.
GPA: 4.00
High School: Mater Academy Charter High School
Heritage: Cuban
When Cuban American Elaisa began training volleyball at the age of ten, she did not anticipate the impact the sport would have on her life. Over half a decade later, after having volunteered as an assistant coach at her local volleyball club, training young girls and boys learning the fundamentals of the game, Elaisa now realizes how much the sports world has impacted her and her values as both an athlete and as a person. This realization has motivated her to want to be a role model for the children she trains in her community. She wants to inspire them to continue pursuing the sport so they too can reap the benefits of their dedication one day the way Elaisa has been able to. This Latina athlete has been her team’s captain for the past six years. She has aided her teammates to multiple national and state championships for both her travel volleyball team and high school volleyball team. Elaisa is proof that there’s no substitute for hard work and perseverance. She has been an exemplary leader for as long as she has been with her team. First to practice and last to leave, she leads by example and expects the same from her teammates. Such is their dedication, that despite not having a gym to practice in on campus and playing the season on the road, Elaisa’s team earned their state championship last season. What makes this Latina athlete stand out from among other athletes, is that as invested as she is in her sport and the success of her team, she has learned to translate and mirror the same commitment to all her pursuits. She takes no shortcuts, be it as an athlete or a student. As much as she has challenged herself to grow into the athlete she has become, she has also taken on a rigorous academic program, replete with AP classes and accompanied by a perfect 4.0 GPA and numerous awards and honors in recognition of her achievements as a student athlete. This remarkable Latina has committed to play volleyball for North Carolina State University’s women’s volleyball team. She will work towards earning a degree in Sports Management of Business in hopes of accomplishing her goals of becoming a division one volleyball coach or a volleyball club owner.
Bronze - Danielle Medina
Hometown: Miami, FL
GPA: 3.87
High School: Carrollton School of Sacred Heart High School
Heritage: Puerto Rican & Cuban
Danielle experimented with a series of different sports when she was in elementary school. She tried playing soccer, volleyball, football, basketball and ran track. "What I have always loved about sports is that [they are] a great way to stay healthy, socialize with friends and also learn to be a team player and meet people from different walks of life," declares Danielle. Out of the sports she tried, the one she enjoyed playing the most was volleyball. This fact led Danielle to choose to play club volleyball more competitively when she was in sixth grade. "I was always fortunate to play in competitive, high-level teams, which helped me learn how to gain mental toughness and grit while learning how to deal with wins and losses," shares Danielle. Her freshman year, she was voted as her school's junior varsity volleyball team's Rookie of the Year. The following year, she made her school's varsity volleyball team. Danielle has always been eager to help her team and has been playing as her team's starting libero throughout high school. "This is a position I appreciate playing because it gives me the opportunity to always communicate with my teammates and be a part of each play," shares Danielle. As she continued to improve in her sport her junior year, she was selected as the recipient of the Coach Award and received Honorable Mention recognition from her county. Now a senior, having demonstrated her commitment, skills, and leadership abilities, Danielle earned the spot of captain of her school's varsity volleyball team. This Puerto Rican Cuban American is grateful for the impact volleyball has had on her life. "I am so thankful and appreciative to volleyball for being such a big part of who I am today and for teaching me how to balance and prioritize important things in my life," shares Danielle. Beyond athletics, she has been actively involved with a school organization called Club Purple throughout her high school career. Club Purple works to raise awareness and funds for people with epilepsy. To help with the club's efforts, Danielle has participated in bake sales and hospital visits. What she has enjoyed the most has been working with Epilepsy Florida, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting those impacted by epilepsy, and being able to buy and take toys to kids affected by epilepsy in her community. Danielle currently serves as Club Purple's president and has implemented additional programs to better serve those affected by epilepsy in her community. Since her freshman year, Danielle has also been involved with Breakthrough Miami, a local nonprofit organization that provides support to traditionally underrepresented students to help them achieve post-secondary success. "This is a great organization that helps qualified and motivated kids get the support and resources needed to succeed in their high school studies and be prepared for college," explains Danielle. Highly active in her school community, she is also a member of its chapters of the Science National Honor Society, the National English Honor Society, and Mu Alpha Theta. This coming fall, she will attend the University of Notre Dame, the University of Michigan, or the University of Miami and is considering pursuing a degree in Business.
GPA: 3.87
High School: Carrollton School of Sacred Heart High School
Heritage: Puerto Rican & Cuban
Danielle experimented with a series of different sports when she was in elementary school. She tried playing soccer, volleyball, football, basketball and ran track. "What I have always loved about sports is that [they are] a great way to stay healthy, socialize with friends and also learn to be a team player and meet people from different walks of life," declares Danielle. Out of the sports she tried, the one she enjoyed playing the most was volleyball. This fact led Danielle to choose to play club volleyball more competitively when she was in sixth grade. "I was always fortunate to play in competitive, high-level teams, which helped me learn how to gain mental toughness and grit while learning how to deal with wins and losses," shares Danielle. Her freshman year, she was voted as her school's junior varsity volleyball team's Rookie of the Year. The following year, she made her school's varsity volleyball team. Danielle has always been eager to help her team and has been playing as her team's starting libero throughout high school. "This is a position I appreciate playing because it gives me the opportunity to always communicate with my teammates and be a part of each play," shares Danielle. As she continued to improve in her sport her junior year, she was selected as the recipient of the Coach Award and received Honorable Mention recognition from her county. Now a senior, having demonstrated her commitment, skills, and leadership abilities, Danielle earned the spot of captain of her school's varsity volleyball team. This Puerto Rican Cuban American is grateful for the impact volleyball has had on her life. "I am so thankful and appreciative to volleyball for being such a big part of who I am today and for teaching me how to balance and prioritize important things in my life," shares Danielle. Beyond athletics, she has been actively involved with a school organization called Club Purple throughout her high school career. Club Purple works to raise awareness and funds for people with epilepsy. To help with the club's efforts, Danielle has participated in bake sales and hospital visits. What she has enjoyed the most has been working with Epilepsy Florida, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting those impacted by epilepsy, and being able to buy and take toys to kids affected by epilepsy in her community. Danielle currently serves as Club Purple's president and has implemented additional programs to better serve those affected by epilepsy in her community. Since her freshman year, Danielle has also been involved with Breakthrough Miami, a local nonprofit organization that provides support to traditionally underrepresented students to help them achieve post-secondary success. "This is a great organization that helps qualified and motivated kids get the support and resources needed to succeed in their high school studies and be prepared for college," explains Danielle. Highly active in her school community, she is also a member of its chapters of the Science National Honor Society, the National English Honor Society, and Mu Alpha Theta. This coming fall, she will attend the University of Notre Dame, the University of Michigan, or the University of Miami and is considering pursuing a degree in Business.
Sustainability (Green)
GOLD - Nichole Ruiz
Hometown: Doral, FL
GPA: 3.95
High School: TERRA Environmental Research Institute
Heritage: Ecuadorian
TERRA Environmental Research Institute student Nichole, wants to know: “What’s your biggest fear?” Since Nichole was six years old, she has known how she would answer her own question. “When I was six, I learned about climate change and became so terrified about my future that I urgently told my friends so they could know too,” reveals Nichole. The threat of rising sea levels looming ever-larger over her hometown of Miami. “At twelve, I talked so much about climate change that my essay on mitigating emissions placed third at the national SECME competition. I wasn’t done,” she adds. Learning about climate change set her on a mission. She began exploring the mechanisms behind the phenomenon and concluded that effective solutions were hindered by a divide between “action and science.” She has taken numerous environmentally focused classes and has committed much of her free time to extracurricular activities dedicated to climate science. Nichole wanted to learn about climate change by developing solutions to key environmental obstacles. Wanting to fight climate change and the inequity that it creates in marginalized communities, she created The Five Dollar Project (TFDP), a nonprofit organization and international grassroots initiative with the goal of mitigating the effects of climate change on marginalized communities through peer empowerment and action. In her community alone, Nichole has engaged over 3,000 members in learning more and fighting for climate action through TFDP. This Ecuadorian American has grown as a leader through her commitment to pursuing climate action. For Nichole, her high school experience has allowed her to amplify her passions and open spaces for people to join the climate movement. Her fellow schoolmates have interacted with the numerous opportunities she has created, like TFDP, planting trees through her school’s Sprouts Club when she was president, competing with Future Farmers of America, and more. “Seeing my peers engage in activities I’m passionate about gives me motivation to keep advocating when I need it most,” she remarks. Nichole stands among the top students in her class. She has been a model of academic excellence and a community leader. Her academic studies and advocacy work have led her to encounter too many gaps and inefficiencies in our current solutions to climate change. She is interested in advancing and improving these solutions. “Who knew researching my biggest fear would become my lifelong passion?” wonders this remarkable Latina leader. Nichole will attend Carnegie Mellon University, Cornell University, or the University of Florida. She is considering majoring in Biological Engineering or Environmental Engineering and will minor in Computer Science.
GPA: 3.95
High School: TERRA Environmental Research Institute
Heritage: Ecuadorian
TERRA Environmental Research Institute student Nichole, wants to know: “What’s your biggest fear?” Since Nichole was six years old, she has known how she would answer her own question. “When I was six, I learned about climate change and became so terrified about my future that I urgently told my friends so they could know too,” reveals Nichole. The threat of rising sea levels looming ever-larger over her hometown of Miami. “At twelve, I talked so much about climate change that my essay on mitigating emissions placed third at the national SECME competition. I wasn’t done,” she adds. Learning about climate change set her on a mission. She began exploring the mechanisms behind the phenomenon and concluded that effective solutions were hindered by a divide between “action and science.” She has taken numerous environmentally focused classes and has committed much of her free time to extracurricular activities dedicated to climate science. Nichole wanted to learn about climate change by developing solutions to key environmental obstacles. Wanting to fight climate change and the inequity that it creates in marginalized communities, she created The Five Dollar Project (TFDP), a nonprofit organization and international grassroots initiative with the goal of mitigating the effects of climate change on marginalized communities through peer empowerment and action. In her community alone, Nichole has engaged over 3,000 members in learning more and fighting for climate action through TFDP. This Ecuadorian American has grown as a leader through her commitment to pursuing climate action. For Nichole, her high school experience has allowed her to amplify her passions and open spaces for people to join the climate movement. Her fellow schoolmates have interacted with the numerous opportunities she has created, like TFDP, planting trees through her school’s Sprouts Club when she was president, competing with Future Farmers of America, and more. “Seeing my peers engage in activities I’m passionate about gives me motivation to keep advocating when I need it most,” she remarks. Nichole stands among the top students in her class. She has been a model of academic excellence and a community leader. Her academic studies and advocacy work have led her to encounter too many gaps and inefficiencies in our current solutions to climate change. She is interested in advancing and improving these solutions. “Who knew researching my biggest fear would become my lifelong passion?” wonders this remarkable Latina leader. Nichole will attend Carnegie Mellon University, Cornell University, or the University of Florida. She is considering majoring in Biological Engineering or Environmental Engineering and will minor in Computer Science.
Silver - Ellie Reyna
Hometown: Miami, FL
GPA: 4.00
High School: MAST Academy
Heritage: Puerto Rican & Peruvian
Promoting environmental conservation and sustainability has been a central focus of Ellie’s high school career. She joined her school’s environmental awareness club, Eclipse, out of curiosity her freshman year. “[I wanted] to see if I would like it,” shares Ellie. Starting out as a highly active member her first year and progressively becoming more involved and committed to Eclipse’s mission, she rose to the position of club president her junior year. This Miami, Florida resident has also been involved with her school’s Green Champions program, an initiative to make her school, MAST Academy, the first net-zero energy and waste school in her state, currently serving as student chair in the program’s Waste Diversion Committee. Through Green Champions, Ellie has played an important role in instituting sustainable change in her school’s waste reduction programs; she established MAST’s composting program and helped grow its recycling program. Ellie is part of the first generation of women in history to become an Eagle Scout. She is among the nation’s women Eagle Scout pioneers, having been third in her troop and fourth in her district, to have attained the distinction, after completing what she considers to be one of her most meaningful contributions to her community, her Eagle Scout project. Thanks to Ellie’s project, there are now three mangrove nurseries filled with over 1,200 propagules, or mangrove seedlings, which will be planted in her school’s nature trail and in other areas around Miami once they have grown large enough. “Mangroves play [an essential role] in protecting coastal ecosystems,” shares Ellie. They help stabilize Florida’s coastline ecosystem, prevent erosion, and absorb storm surge impacts during extreme weather events. Her project merged her passion for environmental conservation with her “feminist mindset focused on encouraging women to accomplish what was previously limited to only men”—referring to being able to earn the Eagle Scout rank—and her “appreciation for leading a team that is willing to put in much effort to give back to [their] community.” “This combination is why I consider this project to be my most meaningful commitment,” remarks Ellie. For this Latina of Puerto Rican and Peruvian descent, all the environmental work she has spearheaded over the years goes back to her deep-rooted desire to help her community. In addition to her environmentally focused initiatives and leadership positions, she has also worked to promote student mental health as her school’s Health Information Program vice president. Ellie has gone above and beyond to create a culture of excellence at MAST. She maintains a 4.0 GPA and has been recognized with the Oberlin College Book Award, is a Hispanic Scholarship Fund Scholar, and was selected as a Coca-Cola Scholar. She will attend the University of Pennsylvania, Northeastern University, or the University of Florida and plans to major in Business & Entrepreneurship and Sustainability Studies.
GPA: 4.00
High School: MAST Academy
Heritage: Puerto Rican & Peruvian
Promoting environmental conservation and sustainability has been a central focus of Ellie’s high school career. She joined her school’s environmental awareness club, Eclipse, out of curiosity her freshman year. “[I wanted] to see if I would like it,” shares Ellie. Starting out as a highly active member her first year and progressively becoming more involved and committed to Eclipse’s mission, she rose to the position of club president her junior year. This Miami, Florida resident has also been involved with her school’s Green Champions program, an initiative to make her school, MAST Academy, the first net-zero energy and waste school in her state, currently serving as student chair in the program’s Waste Diversion Committee. Through Green Champions, Ellie has played an important role in instituting sustainable change in her school’s waste reduction programs; she established MAST’s composting program and helped grow its recycling program. Ellie is part of the first generation of women in history to become an Eagle Scout. She is among the nation’s women Eagle Scout pioneers, having been third in her troop and fourth in her district, to have attained the distinction, after completing what she considers to be one of her most meaningful contributions to her community, her Eagle Scout project. Thanks to Ellie’s project, there are now three mangrove nurseries filled with over 1,200 propagules, or mangrove seedlings, which will be planted in her school’s nature trail and in other areas around Miami once they have grown large enough. “Mangroves play [an essential role] in protecting coastal ecosystems,” shares Ellie. They help stabilize Florida’s coastline ecosystem, prevent erosion, and absorb storm surge impacts during extreme weather events. Her project merged her passion for environmental conservation with her “feminist mindset focused on encouraging women to accomplish what was previously limited to only men”—referring to being able to earn the Eagle Scout rank—and her “appreciation for leading a team that is willing to put in much effort to give back to [their] community.” “This combination is why I consider this project to be my most meaningful commitment,” remarks Ellie. For this Latina of Puerto Rican and Peruvian descent, all the environmental work she has spearheaded over the years goes back to her deep-rooted desire to help her community. In addition to her environmentally focused initiatives and leadership positions, she has also worked to promote student mental health as her school’s Health Information Program vice president. Ellie has gone above and beyond to create a culture of excellence at MAST. She maintains a 4.0 GPA and has been recognized with the Oberlin College Book Award, is a Hispanic Scholarship Fund Scholar, and was selected as a Coca-Cola Scholar. She will attend the University of Pennsylvania, Northeastern University, or the University of Florida and plans to major in Business & Entrepreneurship and Sustainability Studies.
Bronze - Manuel Hernández
Hometown: Naples, FL
GPA: 3.82
High School: Gulf Coast High School
Heritage: Venezuelan
What sets Naples, Florida resident Manuel apart from his peers, is his passion for environmental science. He became acutely aware of the impact of climate change while taking his AP Environmental Science class in tenth grade. He has since become a student advocate for the cause. In his junior year, Manuel joined his school’s Youth Against Climate Change (YACC). YACC is a coalition of groups from across all Collier Count high schools that aims to educate and promote environmental awareness in the Collier County community. “Youth Against Climate Change has given me the grounds to spread my love for a sustainable planet to those around, while it has equally allowed many like me to become more informed stewards of the earth,” shares Manuel. Through YACC, he has worked alongside Citizen’s Climate Lobby, a nonprofit organization and grassroots advocacy group "focused on national policies to address climate change,” to lobby and educate local officials on climate change solutions. Working with YACC, Manuel has also served as a mentor to local middle school students while teaching them about climate change associated coastal challenges affecting their community, like rising sea level, increased extreme weather, and wildlife habitat shift, as part of the Watershed Education for Resilience in Southwest Florida program, also known as Project WATERS—an educational program operated by Florida Gulf Coast University’s Center for Environment and Society. “Through Project Waters, I’ve been able to give the gift of education to those in my community. [The project] has equally prepared youth to rebound and become more conscious members of society as the unexpected takes its course,” remarks Manuel. An aspiring environmental engineer, last summer, while interning at Raytheon Technologies, he led a group in the research, design, development, and presentation of an algae-enhanced solar panel prototype. This Venezuelan American credits his involvement with YACC for helping him develop an “explorative and inquisitive outlook into the world around [him].” He has learned not to be satisfied with the actions others are taking in their efforts to fight against climate change, and instead, look into what he could do to amplify and multiply those actions. Manuel will attend the University of Michigan, the University of Florida, or the University of Miami. He plans to major in Environmental Engineering and minor in Entrepreneurship or a foreign language and hopes to continue researching alternative ways to harness our energy.
GPA: 3.82
High School: Gulf Coast High School
Heritage: Venezuelan
What sets Naples, Florida resident Manuel apart from his peers, is his passion for environmental science. He became acutely aware of the impact of climate change while taking his AP Environmental Science class in tenth grade. He has since become a student advocate for the cause. In his junior year, Manuel joined his school’s Youth Against Climate Change (YACC). YACC is a coalition of groups from across all Collier Count high schools that aims to educate and promote environmental awareness in the Collier County community. “Youth Against Climate Change has given me the grounds to spread my love for a sustainable planet to those around, while it has equally allowed many like me to become more informed stewards of the earth,” shares Manuel. Through YACC, he has worked alongside Citizen’s Climate Lobby, a nonprofit organization and grassroots advocacy group "focused on national policies to address climate change,” to lobby and educate local officials on climate change solutions. Working with YACC, Manuel has also served as a mentor to local middle school students while teaching them about climate change associated coastal challenges affecting their community, like rising sea level, increased extreme weather, and wildlife habitat shift, as part of the Watershed Education for Resilience in Southwest Florida program, also known as Project WATERS—an educational program operated by Florida Gulf Coast University’s Center for Environment and Society. “Through Project Waters, I’ve been able to give the gift of education to those in my community. [The project] has equally prepared youth to rebound and become more conscious members of society as the unexpected takes its course,” remarks Manuel. An aspiring environmental engineer, last summer, while interning at Raytheon Technologies, he led a group in the research, design, development, and presentation of an algae-enhanced solar panel prototype. This Venezuelan American credits his involvement with YACC for helping him develop an “explorative and inquisitive outlook into the world around [him].” He has learned not to be satisfied with the actions others are taking in their efforts to fight against climate change, and instead, look into what he could do to amplify and multiply those actions. Manuel will attend the University of Michigan, the University of Florida, or the University of Miami. He plans to major in Environmental Engineering and minor in Entrepreneurship or a foreign language and hopes to continue researching alternative ways to harness our energy.
Technology
GOLD - Stellan Sarduy
Hometown: Hialeah, FL
GPA: 3.83
High School: Mater Academy Charter High School
Heritage: Cuban & Dominican
Mater Academy Charter High School student, Stellan, has been exploring his interest in technology through several school activities and organizations over the past seven years. Two of these organizations have been his school's Vex Robotics Competition Club, where he currently serves as president, and SECME Olympiad Club. Through his involvement in these organizations, Stellan, along with his teammates, has competed in over 40 competitions and won at the regional, state, and even international levels. He is co-founder of his school's International Robotics Honor Society chapter, an organization through which Stellan promotes growth in the future and community of STEAM and provides opportunities for students at his school to engage in "challenging, fun, and meaningful experiences through STEAM." Last summer, Stellan was selected to participate in the six-month MIT Online Science, Technology, and Engineering Community (MOSTEC) program. This opportunity allowed him to take classes with MIT Computer Science and Electrical Engineering professors. "The program has inspired me and given me more clarity into my passions in technology. [It has] shown me that even though it is very difficult and requires a lot of skill and knowledge, [advancements are] best done with the help of peers and teamwork, [which] is something I have [also] learned throughout the last seven years in robotics and will take with me throughout my time in college and wherever my life takes me afterward," remarks Stellan, One of this Cuban Dominican American's most impactful community works was born in the middle of quarantine. With the help of one of his fellow Vex Robotics Competition Club members, he devised a way to keep children in his community distracted and motivated while encouraging them to pursue careers in STEM by organizing their club's first Summer STEM Camp. For two months in 2020, Monday through Friday, the two of them spent six hours a day conducting online classes where they introduced their students to programming thinking and concepts using Scratch and later transitioned into teaching them Python programming fundamentals. They also taught them CAD basics on Fusion 360 and collaborated with them on challenges and fun projects where their students learned how real engineers use the engineering design process to innovate and come up with solutions to engineering problems. "[W]e wanted to give something fun for the kids to do but at the same time inspire them [to consider] a potential career pathway," shares Stellan. This dedicated Latino wants to see his community advance and has worked hard to help open doors for them. He is committed to serving his community while inspiring its members by sharing his knowledge and abilities with them. "What is the point of learning things if you can't teach it to others later on?" asks this inspiring community leader. He will attend the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cornell University, or Stanford University and plans to major in Mechanical Engineering. He hopes that with his work, he can inspire more Latinos to pursue careers in STEM.
GPA: 3.83
High School: Mater Academy Charter High School
Heritage: Cuban & Dominican
Mater Academy Charter High School student, Stellan, has been exploring his interest in technology through several school activities and organizations over the past seven years. Two of these organizations have been his school's Vex Robotics Competition Club, where he currently serves as president, and SECME Olympiad Club. Through his involvement in these organizations, Stellan, along with his teammates, has competed in over 40 competitions and won at the regional, state, and even international levels. He is co-founder of his school's International Robotics Honor Society chapter, an organization through which Stellan promotes growth in the future and community of STEAM and provides opportunities for students at his school to engage in "challenging, fun, and meaningful experiences through STEAM." Last summer, Stellan was selected to participate in the six-month MIT Online Science, Technology, and Engineering Community (MOSTEC) program. This opportunity allowed him to take classes with MIT Computer Science and Electrical Engineering professors. "The program has inspired me and given me more clarity into my passions in technology. [It has] shown me that even though it is very difficult and requires a lot of skill and knowledge, [advancements are] best done with the help of peers and teamwork, [which] is something I have [also] learned throughout the last seven years in robotics and will take with me throughout my time in college and wherever my life takes me afterward," remarks Stellan, One of this Cuban Dominican American's most impactful community works was born in the middle of quarantine. With the help of one of his fellow Vex Robotics Competition Club members, he devised a way to keep children in his community distracted and motivated while encouraging them to pursue careers in STEM by organizing their club's first Summer STEM Camp. For two months in 2020, Monday through Friday, the two of them spent six hours a day conducting online classes where they introduced their students to programming thinking and concepts using Scratch and later transitioned into teaching them Python programming fundamentals. They also taught them CAD basics on Fusion 360 and collaborated with them on challenges and fun projects where their students learned how real engineers use the engineering design process to innovate and come up with solutions to engineering problems. "[W]e wanted to give something fun for the kids to do but at the same time inspire them [to consider] a potential career pathway," shares Stellan. This dedicated Latino wants to see his community advance and has worked hard to help open doors for them. He is committed to serving his community while inspiring its members by sharing his knowledge and abilities with them. "What is the point of learning things if you can't teach it to others later on?" asks this inspiring community leader. He will attend the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cornell University, or Stanford University and plans to major in Mechanical Engineering. He hopes that with his work, he can inspire more Latinos to pursue careers in STEM.
Silver - Adonis Serrano
Hometown: Miami Gardens, FL
GPA: 3.95
High School: Mater Academy Charter High School
Heritage: Ecuadorian
Ecuadorian American Adonis has been fascinated by innovation and creation since he was introduced to the world of computers as a child. Although he grew up interested in technology, he was not able to take his first computer science class until the seventh grade. "[T]he experience in [this class] not only helped me understand the different aspects of the computer world; but also fueled my ambition [to] learn more about the subject," shared Adonis. Starting with coding with blocks on Scratch and MIT App Inventor and learning HTML5, he began to dedicate his free time to teaching himself different coding languages and their various applications. "By the start of the start of eighth grade, I was fluent in Web Design—HTML, CSS, JS, etc.," he remembers. In computer science class and by learning all he could on his own, this gifted and dedicated autodidact had found his passion. From that point forward, he began getting involved with activities and classes that would help prepare him for his future career in STEM. Adonis serves as his school's Robotics Club recording secretary, lead programmer, and web creator. Last summer, he was selected to participate in the MIT Office of Engineering Outreach Programs' prestigious MIT Online Science, Technology, and Engineering Community (MOSTEC) program. MOSTEC helped Adonis expand his academic horizons through a project course, a science writing course—Embedded Systems, where he worked with a partner to create a tech-supported cane for the visually impaired, and Science Writing & Communication, respectively—and online mentorship. Adonis has been a model of academic excellence at his school; he is a student-athlete and stands among the top students in his class. Yet, according to his AP Computer Science teacher, what makes him exemplary, beyond his academic achievements, is the quality of his character. "Since the first day of school, Adonis has proven to be a kind, respectful, and trustworthy student," shares his teacher. "He is a kind individual who wants to see not only himself succeed, but those around him as well," he adds. He has taught younger members of his community how to code and helped inspire them to pursue careers in STEM as a mentor in his school's summer STEM camps. This fall, Adonis will make his way to Cambridge, Massachusetts, where he will begin his first year of college at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. He plans to major in Computer Science and minor in Business.
GPA: 3.95
High School: Mater Academy Charter High School
Heritage: Ecuadorian
Ecuadorian American Adonis has been fascinated by innovation and creation since he was introduced to the world of computers as a child. Although he grew up interested in technology, he was not able to take his first computer science class until the seventh grade. "[T]he experience in [this class] not only helped me understand the different aspects of the computer world; but also fueled my ambition [to] learn more about the subject," shared Adonis. Starting with coding with blocks on Scratch and MIT App Inventor and learning HTML5, he began to dedicate his free time to teaching himself different coding languages and their various applications. "By the start of the start of eighth grade, I was fluent in Web Design—HTML, CSS, JS, etc.," he remembers. In computer science class and by learning all he could on his own, this gifted and dedicated autodidact had found his passion. From that point forward, he began getting involved with activities and classes that would help prepare him for his future career in STEM. Adonis serves as his school's Robotics Club recording secretary, lead programmer, and web creator. Last summer, he was selected to participate in the MIT Office of Engineering Outreach Programs' prestigious MIT Online Science, Technology, and Engineering Community (MOSTEC) program. MOSTEC helped Adonis expand his academic horizons through a project course, a science writing course—Embedded Systems, where he worked with a partner to create a tech-supported cane for the visually impaired, and Science Writing & Communication, respectively—and online mentorship. Adonis has been a model of academic excellence at his school; he is a student-athlete and stands among the top students in his class. Yet, according to his AP Computer Science teacher, what makes him exemplary, beyond his academic achievements, is the quality of his character. "Since the first day of school, Adonis has proven to be a kind, respectful, and trustworthy student," shares his teacher. "He is a kind individual who wants to see not only himself succeed, but those around him as well," he adds. He has taught younger members of his community how to code and helped inspire them to pursue careers in STEM as a mentor in his school's summer STEM camps. This fall, Adonis will make his way to Cambridge, Massachusetts, where he will begin his first year of college at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. He plans to major in Computer Science and minor in Business.
Bronze - Isabella Otalora
Hometown: Boca Raton, FL
GPA: 3.78
High School: Olympic Heights Community High School
Heritage: Colombian
Olympic Heights Community High School student Isabella wants to be an aerospace engineer. This Colombian American young woman has worked arduously throughout her high school years, challenging herself by pursuing one of her school’s most academically demanding programs and seeking extracurricular opportunities that have helped her prepare for her future career. Since her freshman year, Isabella has been part of her school’s Olympian Advanced Placement Academy, an elite, accelerated, and rigorous program of study promoting the successful completion of advanced course work. Since her first year, she has also been involved with her school’s Engineering Academy, a Project Lead the Way certified program that offers its students a four-year engineering and computer science curriculum. Along with a team of her peers, Isabella has represented her school at the Student Astronaut Challenge, an aerospace science competition sponsored by Florida State University and presented with cooperation from NASA and the Kennedy Space Center. For the Challenge, teams compete in events where they demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of the field of aerospace science as well as problem-solving skills as they work to solve an engineering challenge within a space flight simulation. She has also showcased her mathematical abilities while competing and becoming a state finalist for the Florida Math Brain Bowl competition. Isabella understands the value of contributing to her community by giving back. She has served her community by participating in local beach clean-ups and volunteering at soup kitchens, retirement homes, and after-school programs for kids. She has also worked to inspire young women in her community to become interested in STEM through her involvement with her school’s Coding For Girls initiative. Another way in which she has helped her give back through STEM, is by volunteering to introduce new tech concepts to seniors in her community and instruct them on how to implement modern-day technology within their day-to-day tasks while working with Teens Teach Tech. Isabella is a member of her school’s chapters of Mu Alpha Theta and the National Technological Honors Society. She has worked tirelessly, committed to her goals and wanting to make a difference, on and for, those around her. This Latina leader will study Aerospace Engineering at the University of Florida, the Georgia Institute of Technology, or the University of Central Florida.
GPA: 3.78
High School: Olympic Heights Community High School
Heritage: Colombian
Olympic Heights Community High School student Isabella wants to be an aerospace engineer. This Colombian American young woman has worked arduously throughout her high school years, challenging herself by pursuing one of her school’s most academically demanding programs and seeking extracurricular opportunities that have helped her prepare for her future career. Since her freshman year, Isabella has been part of her school’s Olympian Advanced Placement Academy, an elite, accelerated, and rigorous program of study promoting the successful completion of advanced course work. Since her first year, she has also been involved with her school’s Engineering Academy, a Project Lead the Way certified program that offers its students a four-year engineering and computer science curriculum. Along with a team of her peers, Isabella has represented her school at the Student Astronaut Challenge, an aerospace science competition sponsored by Florida State University and presented with cooperation from NASA and the Kennedy Space Center. For the Challenge, teams compete in events where they demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of the field of aerospace science as well as problem-solving skills as they work to solve an engineering challenge within a space flight simulation. She has also showcased her mathematical abilities while competing and becoming a state finalist for the Florida Math Brain Bowl competition. Isabella understands the value of contributing to her community by giving back. She has served her community by participating in local beach clean-ups and volunteering at soup kitchens, retirement homes, and after-school programs for kids. She has also worked to inspire young women in her community to become interested in STEM through her involvement with her school’s Coding For Girls initiative. Another way in which she has helped her give back through STEM, is by volunteering to introduce new tech concepts to seniors in her community and instruct them on how to implement modern-day technology within their day-to-day tasks while working with Teens Teach Tech. Isabella is a member of her school’s chapters of Mu Alpha Theta and the National Technological Honors Society. She has worked tirelessly, committed to her goals and wanting to make a difference, on and for, those around her. This Latina leader will study Aerospace Engineering at the University of Florida, the Georgia Institute of Technology, or the University of Central Florida.
