Meet our 2023 Student Ambassadors!

Andrea Prieto, a 25-year-old Venezuelan native, has always possessed a genuine love for learning and a passion for education. Growing up, Andrea’s enthusiasm for school and exploration of new subjects set the foundation for her academic journey. Currently a sophomore at Miami Dade College, she is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Film, Television, and Digital Production.

Maria Rubio Arteaga, an accomplished first-generation college student, is on the brink of completing her educational journey. Currently enrolled at Lander University in Greenwood, SC, Maria is pursuing a double major in psychology and Spanish, complemented by a minor in child and family studies. Through valuable internships, Maria has been immersed in the public education system, gaining firsthand insights into the challenges faced by families who lack the necessary guidance to navigate the complex system.

Krystal Ramos, a recent high school graduate, stands poised at the beginning of an exciting academic journey. Having earned both her high school diploma and associate’s degree, Krystal is no stranger to the challenges of navigating a new educational environment. She has personally experienced the difficulties that arise when lacking the resources and guidance of parents or peers who have already embarked on similar paths.

Vanessa Ruiz, the proud owner of Nessa’s Sweet Treats, hails from Arizona, where she was born and raised amidst a large and entrepreneurial family. From an early age, Vanessa found joy in catering to her family’s tastes and impressing them with a wide variety of delicious treats and flavors. Her passion for baking and pastry arts led her to attend a career prep school during high school, where she honed her skills and cultivated a professional approach to the culinary world.

Britney Perez is an ambitious and driven rising leader who is set to embark on an exciting academic journey at Northwestern University. With a strong passion for sociology, business, and education, Britney wants to make a meaningful impact in the lives of underprivileged students by establishing an organization dedicated to promoting positive youth development and educational empowerment.

Elaine Torres-Lopez was valedictorian at Nevada State High School and was recently granted admission into Nevada State University, where she intends to pursue her passion for Biology. Elaine’s affection for animals has always been a driving force in her life, motivating her to make a significant impact in the veterinary field. Her ultimate goal is to establish a non-profit foundation or clinic in Nevada that will provide exceptional care for animals in need.

Lilian Santos proudly embraces her Mexican heritage as the daughter of Mexican parents. Currently a college student, she is preparing to embark on a new educational chapter at CBU, where she will be pursuing a degree in Public Relations. Lilian’s K-12 years were marked by a diverse range of educational experiences, including homeschooling, public school, and attending a charter school–shaping her into an open-minded young professional.

Valeria Campos embarked on a life-changing journey when she and her family immigrated to California from El Salvador at the age of 14. Starting high school in a new country brought forth feelings of fear and nervousness, but Valeria’s tenacity allowed her to overcome these initial challenges and ultimately find safety, comfort, and success in her new environment.

Edwin Carranza was born in El Salvador and made the life-changing move to the United States in 2012. Currently in his third year of college, he is pursuing a major in Criminal Justice at the University of Toledo in Toledo, Ohio. Throughout the past year, Edwin has dedicated his time and expertise to the Ohio Hispanic Coalition, where he serves as a tutor for Latino students.

Gabriella Campos was born and raised in El Salvador before embarking on her journey to Los Angeles at the age of 11. Arriving in a new country, she faced the challenge of learning English, a hurdle she tackled head-on. Her perseverance propelled her to excel academically and she was selected as valedictorian at her elementary school. This early success fueled Gabriella’s drive to continually push herself in her educational journey, seeking opportunities for growth and personal development.