Valentina (Val) Lara
Yale University
Valentina, a 2024 graduate of The Winsor School and La Vida nominee, will be attending Yale University in the Fall. She will be majoring in the History of Science, Medicine, with a minor in Italian. Ms. Lara plans to become a doctor, and wants to bring a holistic approach, care and compassion to her patients as well as advocate for better healthcare in marginalized communities.Valentina’s passion for educational equity, service and social justice was evident in the work she did at The Winsor School helping other Latinx families navigate the enrollment process. She helped pioneer the school’s Latinx outreach program, including guiding parents through the application process which, as a first generation Columbian American, she knew could be difficult for Spanish dominant families. This compassion, commitment and drive will serve her well as she continues her educational journey.
Jolett Majano Licona
University of Massachusetts, Amherst
Jolett is a 2024 graduate of Lynn Vocational Technical Institute, and will be attending University of Massachusetts- Amherst in the Fall. Ms. Lacona, a La Vida Scholars nominee, earned her Certified Nursing Certificate while in high school in the health assisting program and will be majoring in Nursing. She has worked in geriatric care but hopes to explore other nursing specialities.Ms. Licona credits her Mexican background for her motivation and devotion to family. She enjoys going out with friends and reading, including, in particular, articles and news about the Mayo Clinic, and is looking forward to her college experience.
Jeilyn Martinez
Boston College
Jeilyn Martinez, a 2024 graduate of Boston Latin High School, and proud member of the school’s cheer team, will be starting Boston College in the Fall. Ms. Martinez, a Steppingstone Foundation nominee, plans to obtain a degree in Business Marketing and wants to pursue entrepreneurship. She currently has her own nail business and would like to use her education to connect her interests in art and the beauty industry with her own business. She would like to create a post-graduate business which makes people feel comfortable, beautiful and valued. Jeilyn loves and is proud of her Dominican culture. She is excited about going to college and looking forward to experiencing new people, academic challenges, opportunities for growth and networking.
Gwendolyn Castro
Northeastern University
Gwendolyn Castro, a 2024 graduate of The Winsor School, will be attending Northeastern University in the Fall. Ms. Castro, a La Vida nominee, is enrolled in the School of Social Sciences and Humanities and plans to major in political science, on a pre-law track. Presently, Gwendolyn is leaning towards practicing immigration law, a decision inspired in large part by her family’s background.and her first generation Honduran-American experiences.Ms. Castro is a passionate advocate for diversity and inclusion for BIPOC members in all communities, particularly higher education establishments. She enjoys playing softball, watching sports and spending time with friends and family.
Gricela Castro
Clark University
Grisela Castro, a 2024 graduate of The Winsor School, and a La Vida nominee,will be attending Clark University in the Fall. Ms. Castro, a self-described proud Honduran-American, is majoring in marketing where she hopes to use her passion and creativity to champion the aspirations of Black and Brown people, particularly women, in all professional fields.Gricela loves softball and going to the gym, as well as food, music and laughter and family.
Devonnie Dennis
Boston University
Devonnie Dennis will be a freshman at Boston University in the fall of 2024 and plans to be a veterinary surgeon. Guided by her empathy and passion for life, she hopes to make a significant impact in the field of animal science. Born and raised in Jamaica, and fueled by talent and drive, Devonnie received a prestigious Questbridge scholarship. BU, Questbridge and the Anaya Tipnis Foundation all recognize Devonnie's academic achievements, compassionate character, and desire to leave an indelible positive mark on the world. Devonnie has an adventurous and creative spirit. Whether it's the exhilarating thrill of sky jumping or the peaceful pursuit of drawing, Devonnie brings her warmth, joy and brilliance wherever she goes.
Aliyana Bailey
Suffolk University
Aliyana Bailey, a 2024 graduate of Boston Latin School and Steppingstone nominee, will be attending Suffolk University in the Fall. Ms. Bailey has many academic interests and is considering careers in such diverse fields as nursing, social work and law. She also would be interested in doing some studies abroad. In high school, Aliyana was a leader who created a vibrant and inclusive environment. She was co-president of the Caribbean Culture Club, among other leadership roles. She demonstrated a commitment to community service while in high school, dedicating many hours to various events, including multicultural festivals. Aliyana’s broad range of interests, her leadership and passion for community service will serve her well as she embarks on her academic journey.