My name is Angela Ponce and I am a recent graduate from the University of Arizona. I earned a Bachelor’s in Science majoring in Nutritional Sciences and minoring in Biochemistry. I was the first Cruz Scholarship recipient from Arizona and it has definitely been an honor! I am currently working at Abrazo Heart Institute while I wait to hear back from the Peace Corps and hopefully spend two years in Albania as a health volunteer. After that, I hope to apply to Physician Assistant school. I absolutely love to dance and have taught dance classes throughout the Phoenix and South Tucson area and plan to keep dance as a part of my life for as long as I possibly can!

Impossible does not exist. It’s only a placeholder to fill space for something that is yet to be discovered. Jakqueline Granillo believes in turning the impossible into reality and her secret is education. As a survivor of domestic violence and poverty, she learned from her mother that all things are possible through hard work, discipline and focus. Jakqueline is the recipient of the 2015 Alcanzando Un Sueño Scholarship, graduated 5 out of 358 students in her class Metro Tech High School in Phoenix, Arizona and moved to Massachusetts to study Aeronautical Engineering at the prestigious Smith College.

Despite facing significant challenges, Juan Panduro has consistently demonstrated an indomitable will to rise above them and set the bar higher than life had intended. Juan knew that his life had a greater purpose, which motivated him to study longer and harder than the rest. Today, Juan Panduro is a recipient of the 2015 Alcanzando Un Sueño Scholarship, graduated 4th in a class of 358 at Metro Tech High School, and is headed to his first year at Barrett, The Honors College at ASU.

“I am Juan Panduro, and life for me has just begun.”

Fear of family separation is not something that most high school sophomores have to deal with, but for Jennifer Hernandez one traffic stop brought this reality front and center. As a child of undocumented parents, Jennifer understood the risks her parents faced in hopes of giving her and her four siblings a better life in America, but until her mother was detained by immigration, she hadn’t contemplated the impact it would have on her life. Not only did she have to become a mother to her four younger siblings all while continuing to maintain a rigorous academic load but she was also determined to see her mother set free. Knocking on doors, asking for help from every politician and civil rights organization, calling on the press and finally taking to the streets with a group of supporters she was finally able to see her mother free. We are proud to name Jennifer Hernandez winner of the 2015 Alcanzando Un Sueño Scholarship. Jennifer graduated as Valedictorian of Carl Hayden Community High School in Phoenix, Arizona and attended the University of Southern California.

Ivan Jimenez Pineda

Ivan Jimenez Pineda, a recent graduate of César Chávez High School, has proven to be an exceptional student with a fiery passion for engineering and the sciences. His academic journey began in La Guásima, a small ranch in the heart of Nayarit, Mexico, where he spent his early years exploring nature and developing his curiosity.

From an early age, Ivan showed interest in technology. A modest robot he received as a birthday gift sparked his fascination with engineering. This small toy became his constant companion, reminding him of his parents’ struggles and sacrifices to offer him a better life.

Ivan’s move to Phoenix, Arizona, marked a turning point in his life. Despite leaving behind his home and community, he found solace in his passion for science, particularly robotics. His dedication led him to immerse himself fully in his high school’s engineering program, where he excelled in competitions and projects. He designed and programmed a Sparks robot, which triumphed in multiple challenges.

In addition to his academic achievements, Ivan’s leadership skills shone through as he served as president and leader of his school’s National Honor Society. His work alongside Gravity Water to organize events and raise funds to provide clean drinking water to children in need is a clear demonstration of his ability to lead and make a positive impact in his community.

Ivan’s commitment to educational equity is not just a statement, but a lived reality. His participation in programs like the Academic Decathlon and the Marshall-Brennan Constitutional Literacy Project, and his first place win in the regional winning team of the Arizona Academic Decathlon, are clear indications of his dedication to ensuring equal educational opportunities for all.

Despite the challenges and limitations he faced as an immigrant, Ivan’s unwavering determination and resilience never wavered. His relentless pursuit of his dreams and his exceptional academic success, including securing the top position in his class with a weighted GPA of 4.914, is a testament to his strength and character.

Now, Ivan embarks on a new adventure at Harvey Mudd College, hoping to continue his passion for engineering and make a difference in the world. With his commitment to educational equity and dedication to serving others, Ivan embodies the spirit of perseverance and overcoming obstacles that define his journey so far.

Catalina Burgara Maldonado

Catalina Burgara Maldonado, a first-generation Hispanic student, has demonstrated unwavering dedication to her studies and community. Her unique background has not only fueled her academic success but also significantly contributed to her school and surroundings.

From an early age, Catalina was inspired by the sacrifice and determination of her parents, Juana Maldonado and José Burgara, who worked tirelessly to provide her with opportunities they never had. This legacy of hard work and dedication has shaped Catalina’s character, and she has proudly taken on the challenge of honoring her parents’ trust and support.

At Apollo High School, Catalina excelled academically, ranking in the top 1% of her class with a weighted GPA of 5.0. She participated in rigorous Advanced Placement courses and the dual enrollment program at Glendale Community College, where she excelled in studies of professional sales and marketing.

Catalina’s success extends beyond the classroom. Her commitment to the community is evident in her involvement in various extracurricular activities, including Key Club, National Honor Society, DECA, Mu Alpha Theta, and dance. Over the years, Catalina has accumulated more than 400 hours of community service, demonstrating her passion for helping others and making a tangible difference in her environment.

As vice president of Key Club and president of DECA at Apollo High School, Catalina has shown exceptional leadership skills. Her dedication to service and her ability to inspire others has been recognized by her classmates, teachers, and counselors.

In addition to her academic and extracurricular achievements, Catalina has worked as an instructor and choreographer at Limitless Dance Studio, sharing her passion for dance with children of all ages. She has also demonstrated her leadership abilities in work settings, serving as a shift leader at Jamba Juice.

With a curious mind and a generous heart, Catalina is prepared to face future challenges with determination and courage. Her dream of becoming a dentist will lead her to study Biological Sciences (Pre-Dental) at Arizona State University, where she hopes to continue serving her community and positively impacting the world around her.