Dr. Lorena Navarro
This scholarship is dedicated to my parents, Vicente and Albina Navarro Duran, whose sacrifices and unwavering support inspire me every day. Immigrating from Mexico in 1973, they settled in the Imperial Valley, where Vicente worked as a farm laborer for over 40 years to provide for our family and open doors of opportunity. Though they never had the chance to pursue a formal education themselves, they valued learning deeply and instilled in us the importance of dreaming big and never giving up. Their boundless optimism and support fueled my pursuit of a career in science and my goal of obtaining a Ph.D., even when they didn’t fully understand my research. This scholarship honors their sacrifice, resilience, and belief in the power of education. It’s my way of paying it forward—helping other first-generation students to chase their dreams, overcome obstacles, and achieve greatness.
Impact
This scholarship empowers STEM students to pursue their academic and professional goals while championing greater equity and inclusion in science and technology. By supporting scholars who are committed to excellence and to the advancement of underrepresented groups in STEM, this award helps cultivate the next generation of innovators, educators, and leaders who will create lasting change in their fields and communities.