Topic: first-generation

man in Native American dance regalia
Campus News | May 8, 2025

After 26 years, Edward Box III finally completed his hospitality degree. Now he's ready to pursue two missions: running a tribal casino and helping to steer youths from his reservation to his alma mater.

Piotr Tomasik wearing a shirt that says Tensorwave
Campus News | January 30, 2025

Piotr Tomasik, a computer science graduate and serial entrepreneur, is driving a local tech renaissance one internship â€” and startup â€” at a time through new 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÍòÄܿƴó program.

man posing by red metal pillars
People | October 21, 2024

As a 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÍòÄܿƴó student, Izack Tenorio learned from friend and mentor Patrick T. Smith about the importance of giving back. Now the four-time Rebel graduate is getting the award named in Smith's honor.

Wearing black medical scrubs, Dr. Chase Shropshire poses with his arms crossed in a mock hospital triage area at the 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÍòÄܿƴó School of Medicine
People | October 11, 2024

Even well into his undergraduate studies, Chase Shropshire didn't envision a career in medicine. Now he’s the School of Medicine’s first Alumnus of the Year.

51³Ô¹ÏÍøÍòÄܿƴó alumna Aileen Pastor relaxes on a park bench on campus with her feet up
People | October 7, 2024

Urban Affairs Alumna of the Year — and die-hard Rebel — Aileen Pastor parlays her internship into a career with the Regional Transportation Commission.

Physical therapist Juan Gutierrez poses with his arms folded in an empty hospital room
People | September 19, 2024

Inspired by another 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÍòÄܿƴó grad, Juan Gutierrez Jr. focuses his career on helping others through physical therapy. He's now the School of Integrated Health Sciences' Alumnus of the Year.