From First-Generation Students to College Graduates
The St. Vincent de Paul First-Generation Scholarship Program is now celebrating its 25th year of impact with 163 graduated scholars over the span of nearly three decades. This year, SVdP is happy to celebrate 16 additional graduates in the academic year 2025-2026 who credit the scholarship program, and its mentors for their success.
The program uses a relationship-based model and taking a holistic approach, the scholarship meets scholars where they are and supports them through one-on-one mentoring, access to SVdP’s wrap-around community services, and offers connections to opportunities through individual donors and community partners, ultimately changing their lives and professional trajectories.
Here is a selection of this school year’s graduates, sharing how the program and their mentors have shaped their journeys, along with reflections from the mentors who walked alongside them through their college years.
Debby Suarez - May 2026
Bachelor of Science in Speech and Hearing
“This scholarship actually meant a lot to me. Everything that I've accomplished feels like a breakthrough,” said Debby.
“Being connected to a mentor, it kind of brought me outside of the college world. My mentor has offered perspectives as a mother on things that I couldn't necessarily share with my own mother because she hadn't gone to college,” said Debby.
Mentor, Lisa Olvera: “As Debby has navigated her path, she has really come into her own and I am excited for her to begin her Master’s program! I listen to Debby, giving some advice where wanted/needed and encouraging her. I also pray for her.”
Zachary Kaesberg - May 2026
Bachelor in Psychology with a Minor in Health and Wellness Coaching
“This scholarship has meant a lot to me, it gave me a chance to better myself and obtain an education that will benefit me for the future. This has set me up for a successful future and has helped me to grow more than I could have imagined otherwise,” Zachary said.
“My journey through college was made a lot easier with Kelly, my mentor. He has helped me so much the past 3 years to feel supported and not alone through the tougher times in school,” said Zachary.
Mentor, Kelly Mortensen: “I am very proud of him to be able to graduate in 3 years. Zach and I have similar family backgrounds, so we really understood each other. I was able to help Zack along the way by coaching him on post-graduation strategies, roommates, financials to get through graduation, and potential jobs while in school.”
Letina Teklihmanot - May 2026
Bachelor of Science in Nursing
“The SVdP first-generation scholarship meant a lot to me. My husband was the only one working, and we have three young children. It helped reduce the financial burden and allowed me to focus more on my studies and my family without constantly worrying about expenses,” said Letina.
“There were times when I thought about changing my major or even quitting, but my mentor encouraged me to stay focused on my dream, no matter how long it would take. Her guidance and support made a big difference in helping me stay on track and continue moving forward,” said Letina.
Mentor, Linda Upshaw: “I am so proud of her, she did not give up. This scholarship program has been a tremendous blessing to her, and she has always mentioned how grateful she is for it and to have the support that comes with the mentorship program. I think it is important in educational spaces that people have mentors, to have someone who has gone through it and accomplished it. I was able to give her guidance and unique views.”
Adriana Jaramillo - May 2026
Double Bachelor’s in Science for Medical Studies and Population Health
“The SVdP scholarship for me meant that the possibility of attending a higher education without debt was a reality. I had support both financially and academically,” said Adriana.
“Martha has made a huge impact on me; she has been the person I can always count on. Having someone mature and dependable like Martha in my life has given me a great sense of guidance when I need it most,” said Adriana.
Mentor, Martha Batista: “I’m incredibly proud of her and the hard work she has put in over the last several years. I’m so happy for her and excited about the next phase of her life. She still has quite a journey in front of her, but I have no doubt that she will achieve her goal. She is an amazing young woman, and I’m honored to have been her mentor.”
America Haro - May 2026
Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics with a second degree in Spanish with a concentration in Translation and Interpretation
“As a first-generation student, I didn’t have guidance on how college works, so having financial support made a huge difference,” said America.
“As a first-generation student, there are a lot of things you have to figure out on your own, and having someone who understands that and can offer advice makes a big difference. My mentor has helped me stay motivated and reminded me that I’m capable of reaching my goals and that I go first.”
Mentor, Kelly Pignato: “I am super proud of America’s accomplishments and tenacious spirit. I have no doubt she will continue on the path she has outlined for herself.”
William Bolanos - May 2026
Associates Degree in Business Management
"The SVdP first-generation scholarship helped ease the financial stress that comes with being a first-generation college student. The scholarship also reminded me that there were people who believed in my success and wanted to support my journey," William said.
"My relationship with my mentor, Jason, has been great. He was someone I could rely on when I needed guidance and is a very awesome person to communicate with! Knowing I had someone in my corner helped me feel less alone and more confident when facing challenges or making important decisions," William said.
Mentor, Jason Pritchett: "I'm very proud of him for sticking with something that was difficult. Graduating from any institution with any degree, it requires an amount of discipline and amount of perseverance, but to do that in the midst of basically having another obligation that require a lot of his time, is truly impressive."
Michelle Rivera - December 2025
Bachelor of Applied Science in Early Childhood Studies
“The SVDP scholarship gave me a chance to attend university without having to worry about tuition and fees. I also was able to make multiple connections with other scholars as well as mentors. We were all able to share new ideas, experiences, and advice,” Michelle said.
“I truly admire my mentor. She taught me that despite any adversity, we have the power to overcome it. I believe my relationship with Teresa is truly one of a kind, and I’m incredibly blessed to have been able to connect with her on such a great level,” Michelle said.
Mentor, Teresa Guerra: “I am so proud of her! She has been a go-getter since the beginning, and I have seen her grow into a beautiful human being who now has a bachelor’s degree! I am so glad she is a part of my life and will continue to be. I will be a lifelong cheerleader for her!
Adan Montoya - December 2025
Bachelor of Science in Construction Management and Technology
“The SVdP Scholarship helped me and my family tremendously. I was able to finish school debt free because the scholarship helped pay for my tuition and other fees. I was also able to focus on helping my parents pay off their house instead of worrying about school expenses,” said Adan.
“My journey through college was definitely easier because of my mentors. When I gave up on school, they were part of the circle who galvanized me to get back up and try again. Fred, my mentor, was instrumental in finding my way back to school after dropping out for a semester,” Adan said.
Mentor, Fred Amador: “I am so proud of Adan! He is kind, hardworking, and intelligent. I look forward to keeping in touch with him to see what positive impact he will have in his professional and personal life.”
Alejandro Castro - December 2025
Bachelor in Global Logistics Management
“The SVdP first-generation scholarship helped me by providing a foundation of additional funds to help me through college to purchase books or any other necessities I needed,” said Alejandro.
“My mentor Pat was one of the most influential people in my life. He was there for me at some of my lowest points in life that happened in college, and I know he will be there for me at my highest now after college. Pat helped me understand that giving up on my journey was never an option,” Alejandro said.
Mentor, Pat Donaldson: “Being a mentor has been a gift to me! It gave me an opportunity to help Alex through unique challenges related to being the first in his family to attend college. I’ve watched as he has matured into a professional young man. He remains confident but knows more about the real-world challenges. He’s impressed me every step of the way.”
Congratulations to the remaining students of the 2025-2026 graduating class!
May Scholars:
- Luis Duque
- Momo Dorman
- Fatima Alaaraji
- Carlos Diaz
December Scholars:
- Jaxmin Segura
- Daylene Sanchez
- Diana Nunez
A special thank you to our Vincentians, Donors, Mentors, Supporters and SVdP Leadership Staff for helping make the scholarship program possible and an outstanding success.
If you would like more information regarding the program or would like to get involved, please contact Andy Romley at: (602) 622-4566 or [email protected]
