My name is Enrique Mendez, and I serve as a college counselor in Austin, Texas. This year, I had the honor of guiding an exceptional graduating senior, and I’m now reaching out to help ensure his path to college starts off strong.

From our first conversation, it was clear he had the drive, resilience, and vision to turn his goals into reality. I’ve watched him work tirelessly to overcome challenges, seize opportunities, and prepare himself for this next chapter. With just a bit of extra support, I know he will thrive.

Salem Diaz, Salutatorian of his graduating class, is a first-generation college student who has worked tirelessly to make his dream a reality, earning a place at Brown University this fall, where he plans to study engineering.

For Salem, this journey is more than his own; it’s a milestone for his family and community, proof that hard work and perseverance can open the doors to the Ivy League. Now, he faces one last challenge before he can begin, covering housing costs until the day of orientation.

Your support will help ensure Salem has a safe place to stay as he takes his first steps into this life-changing opportunity. Together, we can help him start this new chapter with stability, pride, and the focus he needs to succeed.