Sí Se Pudo: Celebrating the Class of 2025 🎓🌱
Across California and beyond, LEAF Scholars from the Class of 2025 are crossing the stage with diplomas in hand—and futures full of purpose. From the first day of college to their final exams, each cap, gown, and LEAF graduation stole represents first-generation scholars who navigated challenges, built community, and rose as leaders in their families and neighborhoods.
At LEAF, we know that when a student graduates, it’s more than a personal win—it’s a victory for entire communities.
We’re proud to highlight just a few of the incredible journeys from this year’s graduating class:
🎓 Carolina Torres
San José State University
B.A. in Sociology | Concentration in Race & Ethnic Studies | Minor in Human Rights
Carolina joined LEAF during her final year at SJSU and quickly became a powerful force for change. As a LEAF intern, mentor, and participant in our Advocacy Program, she mentored 3rd-year scholars in East San José and helped parents become stronger advocates for their children.
“LEAF gave me the confidence to lead, to connect with families, and to believe in the impact I could have.”
Carolina’s academic work deepened her understanding of systemic inequities—and LEAF gave her the platform to take action. She plans to pursue her Master’s in Social Work after a gap year, with the goal of working with youth impacted by the justice system. Her journey reminds us why mentorship and advocacy matter.
🎓 Vanessa Segura-Casillas
San José State University
M.A. in Counseling & Guidance
Vanessa’s recent achievement marks a major milestone in her journey as an advocate for educational equity. As a LEAF Mentor, she provided steady, heartfelt support to fellow first-gen college students.
“Mentoring college students isn’t always easy, but LEAF provided a structure and a community of people who truly care.”
With her master’s now complete, Vanessa is stepping into a full-time role focused on college access and student success in East San José. Her leadership, rooted in empathy and lived experience, continues to uplift the next generation.
🎓 Jada Velazquez Medina
University of California, Berkeley
B.A. in Public Health (STEM)
Jada’s path through UC Berkeley was filled with challenges—but also growth, connection, and purpose. With LEAF’s guidance, she found the confidence to ask for help, and ultimately, to give back by mentoring others.
“LEAF gave me the guidance, encouragement, and real-life advice I truly needed—and the chance to give back.”
Jada’s most meaningful experience? Supporting her mentees with the same care she once received. She’s now exploring roles in biotech, healthcare, and public health, with plans to pursue graduate studies. Her story shows the power of full-circle mentorship.
🎓 Lizbeth Hernandez
University of California, Davis | Class of 2025
B.A. in Psychology & Chicano Studies | Minor in Education
From résumé writing to public speaking, Lizbeth grew tremendously through LEAF’s Career Exploration & Development (CED) Program. As a mentor, she guided community college students—while also building her own confidence and professional toolkit.
“I’ve asked every LEAF staff member about their academic journeys. Their advice helped shape mine.”
Navigating college wasn’t always easy. Learning to ask for help—and accepting it—was one of her biggest milestones. Emergency funding from LEAF even helped her secure housing after studying abroad, proving that support can be life-changing.
Now, Lizbeth is back in the Bay Area, exploring careers in healthcare and education—and savoring time with family before her younger sister begins her own college journey.
Each graduate’s story is a testament to the power of community support, mentorship, and opportunity.
But for every tassel turned, there are dozens more students still on the journey—working late shifts, supporting siblings, navigating financial uncertainty, and dreaming of the day they’ll walk the stage too.
Help Us Keep the Momentum Going 💚
Your support today helps ensure that more Latinx first-gen scholars from East San José can reach the graduation stage, lead in their communities, and create lasting change.
Together, we can fund futures—and keep lifting the next generation of leaders.
