π Welcome, MSU Puksta Scholars! π
We had an incredible evening at the MSU Puksta Scholar Welcome Dinner, where we focused on building connections, setting intentions, and starting the academic year on the right foot. π
Our new scholars were warmly welcomed into the Puksta community, and the night was all about creating meaningful cohort connections. Together, we explored our personal purpose and intentions through powerful writing and expressive art. βοΈπ¨
Weβre also thrilled to introduce our brand-new Puksta Scholar Social Media Ambassador position! This exciting role will give one of our scholars the opportunity to lead our digital presence and share the amazing work being done across our community. π²β¨
As we move forward into the academic year, weβre excited to see how our scholars grow, connect, and make a lasting impact. Welcome to the Puksta familyβwe canβt wait to see what youβll achieve!
#PukstaScholars #MSUDenver #WelcomeDinner #CohortConnection #SetYourIntentions #SocialImpact #SocialMediaAmbassador #NewBeginnings
We recently went on a trip to Chicago and were thrilled to schedule sometime with our Puksta alumni, Ian and Bweza, who now live out there! We embarked on an architecture tour by boat and caught up over delicious deep-dish pizza at Giordanoβs! ππ€ We were so inspired to hear of amazing work theyβre doing post-Puksta.
π» Ianβs Story: Ian has taken his love for music and discovered his lifelong passion for crafting violins, a journey that has been as intricate and beautiful as the instruments heβs learning to create. His dedication to this art form is nothing short of inspiring, and we canβt wait to see where this passion takes him. We also got to meet his beautiful wife Morgan!!!
π± Bwezaβs Journey: From her days working with Growhaus in Denver on her Puksta project, Bweza has taken her love for plants and passion for food justice to new heights. Sheβs now co-founded Sistas in the Village, a local farm in Englewood, Chicago, thatβs making a significant impact on the community. At Sistas in the Village, theyβre reclaiming farming as a source of cultural pride and spiritual resilience. Their vision? A community where everyone is fed spiritually, physically, and emotionally.
They not only sell and donate the food they grow, but they also host workshops for community members of all generations and partner with like-minded Black-owned organizations and brands. Bwezaβs commitment to food justice is transforming her community and empowering others to join the movement. https://loom.ly/LoOc1Ow
We are beyond proud of Ian and Bweza for their incredible contributions and the lasting impact theyβre making. Keep shining, and thank you for continuing to embody the Puksta spirit wherever you go!
Alumni don`t forget to update you profile in the Puksta Online Community Portal https://loom.ly/zF3L4jg so we can be sure to visit you next time John and I are off on our next adventure! β€οΈ, NiChel
#PukstaScholars #Chicago #PukstaAlumni #FoodJustice #CulturalPride #CommunityEmpowerment #ArchitectureTour #DeepDishPizza
Maria Kahn, University of Denver Puksta Alumni 2013, is now being represented by Grassports LLC, the only sustainability and inclusivity focused publicity agency in the UAE! π πβ½
As the Captain of the Pakistan Women`s National Team and the first Pakistani female athlete to be endorsed by PUMA Middle East, Maria consistently breaks barriers and sets new standards. She has played football at the highest levels in the USA, UAE, Pakistan, and Saudi Arabia, earning numerous accolades. Including the Player of the Tournament Award in Saudi Arabiaβs first ever Womenβs International Competition, which comprised of 4 different nations. π
Congratulations, Maria! We hope ya`ll will keep up with her journey and check out the article: https://loom.ly/tnZtHTU
Just another day at the office π€© Puksta Scholars Program 24-25!! can`t wait to start this next year and welcome in our new scholars! Big thanks to our Puksta Coordinators and our special guest for lunch, Puksta Scholar Cristal De La Torre! #planning #planningcommunity #makingmoves #pukstascholars
ππ Proud of our now Puksta Alumni and DU Alumni Christy Voππ
We are thrilled to announce Puksta Scholar, Christy Vo`s, graduation from the University of Denver with a double major in Biochemistry and Computer Science not to mention a minor in Art! π Christy`s dedication over the past years has been deeply rooted in a transformative project aimed at enhancing access to higher education for underserved communities. Through collaboration with Minds Matter, a prestigious nonprofit organization, Christy has empowered individuals from low-income backgrounds by providing essential resources and guidance for their college journeys.
This experience has reinforced Christy`s commitment to equity and demonstrated the profound impact of collective efforts in creating opportunities for aspiring students. Christy`s journey highlights the importance of perseverance and the transformative power of education.
As Christy celebrates this milestone, we also recognize her growth in patience and trust in the future. She is actively pursuing opportunities, including potential roles at Denver Safe House, to further contribute to causes she deeply cares about.
Congratulations, Christy, on this incredible achievement! π We look forward to seeing the continued impact you will make in your community and beyond.
#PukstaScholar #PukstaALUMNI #UniversityOfDenver #Graduation #EquityInEducation #CommunityImpact #FutureLeaders
ππ Josie Duenas Tapia... Proud Puksta Scholar and now a Graduate of Colorado State University! ππ
I am thrilled to share that Josie has graduated from Colorado State University with a degree in Computer Science π During his time at CSU in the Puksta Scholar Program, he dedicated himself to combating the underrepresentation of Latine students in higher education. Through initiatives like the Caminos mentoring program, he worked with over 50 high school students each semester, empowering their Latine identities and expanding their post-graduation opportunities.
In his first year with Puksta, he conducted impactful research on the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the Latine community in Eagle County and Vail, CO. This research, which Jose was proud to contribute to, has been published and can be accessed here: https://loom.ly/bkhJG1U
Looking ahead, he is excited to explore opportunities with local nonprofits like Adelante, supporting Latine businesses in Denver, and expanding his impact as an independent contractor in the area.
So proud of you Josie and we can`t wait to see what the future holds! π
#CSUPukstaGraduate #LatineLeadership #EmpoweringCommunities #HigherEducation #CSURams #PukstaALUMNI
ππ Proud moment! ππ
Congratulations to Marissa Alejandra Martinez Suarez, a 2024 Puksta Scholar graduating from the University of Denver! ππ Marissa has achieved an incredible milestone, earning at the same time her Master`s degree in Teacher Education and Bachelor`s with a Majors in History and Political Science, and a Minors in Spanish, Critical Race, and Ethnic Studies. π
Over the years, Marissa has made a tremendous impact by working with youth and fostering their identities. As a Peer Program Coordinator for the Achieving Excellence Academy, she has supported students in developing their skills as mentors. This summer, Marissa will continue her journey as an 11th-grade teacher, working closely with the LatinX affinity cohort. ππ
In Puksta, Marissa has been actively engaged in impactful projects like the P3 mentorship program, Empowering our Women of Tomorrow initiative, and organizing DACA/Undocu Week with Unity Without Borders. These experiences have enriched her perspective, enhanced her advocacy skills, and strengthened her commitment to social justice.
Marissaβs journey doesnβt stop here. She aims to continue supporting students and becoming the representation she wished she had growing up. Hereβs to Marissaβs bright future and the positive change she will bring! ππ©βπ«
#PukstaFoundation #PukstaGraduates2024 #UniversityOfDenver #TeacherEducation #Mentorship #SocialJustice #LatinxEducation #EducationForAll #ProudGraduate #ProsperityDenverFundScholar
ππ Celebrating CSU Puksta Scholar Joel Ibarra! ππ
A huge congratulations to Joel Ibarra, a 2024 Graduate from Colorado State University! Joel has earned his degree in Construction Management. π
Joel`s journey with Puksta has been transformative. He established a mentorship program within the Construction Management department, supporting first-generation and multicultural students. This program, now in its second year, has provided invaluable mentorship and guidance, fostering a welcoming and supportive community. π€
Joelβs dedication extends beyond the classroom. He has been actively involved in social justice groups and restorative justice initiatives, channeling his passion into creating positive change within the construction industry. His work has not only connected students with industry leaders but also paved the way for future cohorts to benefit from this incredible initiative.
Join us in celebrating Joel`s achievements and his continued advocacy for diversity and inclusion! ππ
#PukstaFoundation #CSUGrad #ConstructionManagement #Mentorship #DiversityAndInclusion #FirstGenSuccess #ProudGraduate
ππ Celebrating Our CSU Puksta Graduate, Anh Bui! ππ
We are proud to announce that Puksta Scholar Anh Bui has graduated from Colorado State University with a major in Biology and a minor in Business Administration. Throughout this year, Anh has delved deeper into her project on equal access to quality education, discovering the immense support from her circle in making her vision a reality.
Anh successfully targeted the needs of two Denver Public Schools (DPS) from their advisor`s perspective, helping students get onto campus and building deeper relationships with their DSF advisor and the students. She left CSU with a lasting impact by connecting resources to the DPS advisor, ensuring continued support for students.
Anh produced a website, planned a school tour, and wrote a 20-page thesis paper. Her efforts resulted in 50 students from JFK High School touring CSU and receiving personalized mentorship connections.
Congratulations, Anh! Your dedication to education and community impact is truly inspiring.
#PukstaScholar #PukstaGraduate #CSU #Biology #BusinessAdministration #EqualAccessToEducation #CongratsGrad
πΊπΈβ¨π Happy Fourth of July, everyone!πβ¨πΊπΈ
As we celebrate today, the ππ©Ά Puksta Foundation ππ©Ά is also taking a moment to honor the memories of Harry and Eva Puksta, who we lost on July 3rd and 4th, 25 years ago.
The story of their π love lives on through the π 346 Puksta Alumni and 66 Puksta Scholars π who are working in our communities to create positive change. Their legacy of creating access to higher education continues to inspire us every day.
Let`s use this moment to honor their contributions and celebrate the difference they have made in the lives of so many.
#FourthOfJuly #PukstaFoundation #LegacyOfLove #EducationForAll #ActsOfKindness #PositiveChange #AmericatheBeautiful #pukstascholars #takingamoment #today #moment #legacy #access #education
ππ Celebrating Our CU Boulder Puksta Graduate, Fernanda Cerros! ππ
Fernanda Cerros graduated from the University of Colorado Boulder with a major in International Affairs and Political Science. Fernanda has been a champion for educational equity and the expansion of ethnic studies in schools.
During her time at CU Boulder, Fernanda worked with Public Achievement to mentor youth and inspire change in their schools and communities. As a youth organizer with YES4CO, she has been instrumental in expanding ethnic studies in the Boulder Valley School District (BVSD). Fernanda`s dedication and hard work have earned her the prestigious President`s 2024 DEI Award.
We are incredibly proud of Fernanda and know that she will leave a mark wherever she goes! Congratulations, Fernanda!
#PukstaScholar #PukstaGraduate #CUBoulder #EducationalEquity #EthnicStudies #YouthAdvocacy #CongratsGrad #classof2024
ππ Celebrating Our CSU Puksta Graduate, Pastor Niyogusengwa! ππ
We are proud to announce that Pastor Niyogusengwa, a new Puksta Alumni, has graduated from Colorado State University with a degree in Business - Marketing. Pastor has worked tirelessly on projects aimed at promoting equal access to education.
Throughout his time at CSU, Pastor focused on increasing high school student engagement. He discovered that effective planning and adaptability are crucial for teachers, and he also learned how to enhance his own skills in planning and communication. By asking his group members what they enjoyed and what helped them succeed during grade school, he was able to gather valuable insights.
Pastorβs commitment to education and his ability to adapt and plan effectively will undoubtedly contribute to his future success. Congratulations, Pastor! Thank you for bringing so much life and laughter to the program we will miss you!
#PukstaScholar #PukstaGraduate #CSU #BusinessMarketing #PukstaAlumni #EqualAccessToEducation #CongratsGrad #classof2024
ππ Congratulations to our DU Puksta Grad, Sunjoi Gandhi! ππ
Sunjoi has earned a degree in Computer Science and Socio-legal Studies with a minor in Mathematics from the University of Denver. As a Puksta Scholar, Sunjoi has been a dedicated advocate for youth and girls` access to education.
During their time at Puksta, Sunjoi worked with Girls Inc and focused on advocacy and activism.
In Sunjoiβs own words: "In my last year as a Puksta, I have begun curating a vision of what I would like my future to look like. I have felt torn between prioritizing my community work or myself and family as I move into the workforce. I have been leaning into the spiral of senior year and learning to be comfortable with the unknown. I know I will continue working with my community organization while pushing myself career-wise in my field of study. I am celebrating graduating!"
We are so proud of Sunjoi... Keep Rocking it!
Shout out to the amazing organization Girls Inc!
#PukstaScholar #PukstaGraduate #UniversityOfDenver #YouthAdvocacy #GirlsEducation #Classof2024
πβ¨ Congratulations to Madylin Kessler, a CU Denver Puksta Alumni! Madylin has earned her BS in Architecture and Planning with a minor in Landscape Architecture and Construction Management. π
ποΈ Her Puksta Project: This year, Madylin has focused on learning about resources available to those experiencing gentrification. She has been compiling various resources, definitions, explanations, and testimonies to create brochures that will be distributed to affected communities and community centers. Her goal is to provide valuable information and support to those impacted by gentrification.
π Future Plans: Madylin plans to involve politicians and local government to address gentrification and implement regulations for new companies involved in housing and commercial projects.
π Join us in celebrating Madylin`s achievements and her dedication to making a positive impact in her community! @maddsss.38 #Classof2024
#PukstaProud #ArchitectureForChange #CUGrad #CommunityAdvocate
πβ¨ Congratulations to Dhiona Carter Jaramillo, a proud University of Denver graduate and now Puksta Alumna! Dhiona majored in Biochemistry with minors in Biology, Human Health Systems and Sciences, and Medical Physics. Her passion for reducing health disparities and ensuring equal access to healthcare for all has driven her impactful work. π
π¬ Her Puksta Project: Dhiona has been tackling the health disparity crisis, especially as more individuals migrate to Colorado and face challenges accessing equitable healthcare. Through her role as a care coordinator at the D.A.W.N. Clinic in Aurora, CO, she has assisted over 300 patients in the past four years, providing free healthcare and helping them register for benefits like housing, transportation, food, and mental health services.
πͺ Dhiona also works with Red Equity to distribute period products nationwide, aiming to eradicate the Pink Tax and ensure equal access to these essential items. Her dedication extends to her research on Alzheimerβs disease prevention at DU and her new role as a full-time leasing agent at TAVA Waters, where she helps Spanish-speaking residents navigate challenges.
π Future Plans: Dhiona plans to attend Physician Assistant school to continue her mission of transforming healthcare systems and ensuring equal healthcare for all.
π Join us in celebrating Dhiona`s incredible achievements and wishing her all the best in her future endeavors! #PukstaProud #HealthcareForAll #DUGrad #ChangeMaker
πβ¨ Congratulations to our incredible 2024 CSU Puksta Graduate, Melanin Nahomi Armendariz Figueroa! β¨π
πβ¨ Congratulations to Melanin Armendariz Figueroa, our 2024 Puksta Graduate! β¨π
π Majored in Human Development & Family Studies with a concentration in Early Childhood Professions and a minor in Spanish at CSU
π Puksta project: Addressing intergenerational trauma and domestic violence
π Passionate about social justice and community change
Thank you Melanin for inspiring all of us through your dedication and your compassion, you have such a kind and beautiful heart and we know it will take you great places moving forward! ππ€
Hereβs to Melaninβs remarkable achievements and her bright future ahead! ππ
@ke
#PukstaFoundation #CSU #HumanDevelopment #Graduation2024 #SocialJustice #CommunityImpact #IntergenerationalTrauma #DomesticViolenceAwareness
π Tuesday night, we had the pleasure of hosting a special dinner for our Puksta Scholar graduates at our home in Denver. It was a wonderful evening filled with delicious food and great company! We enjoyed a delicious dinner including salmon, tri-tip, mac and cheese, and more if you can believe it... Then we had the audacity to top it off with brownies and ice cream for dessert. π½οΈπ¨
We had a fantastic time chatting about summer plans, sharing lots of laughs, and celebrating all the hard work and achievements of our scholars. Best of luck to all our newest Puksta alumni! We are going to miss having you in the program day to day, but please keep in touch now that you are alumni, and congratulations on your achievements! πβ¨ @whereispastor
#PukstaScholars #PukstaAlumni #Graduation #Congrats #StayInTouch #Denver #DeliciousDinner
πβ¨ Congratulations to our amazing 2024 MSU Puksta Graduate, Gracie Leal! β¨π
Majoring in Social Work at MSU Denver, Gracie has made significant contributions through her Puksta project. She focused on providing awareness and resources for homelessness, sustainability, policy, and victim services through social media with CO Aware Denver πβ€οΈ
As she embarks on her journey to pursue her MSW this fall, we celebrate all that she has achieved and look forward to her continued impact in the field of social work. Way to go Gracie we know you are looking at a bright future ahead! ππ
@leal.graciie
@coawaredenver
@msudenverc2hub
#PukstaFoundation #MSUDenver #SocialWork #Classof2024 #CommunityImpact #HomelessnessAwareness #Sustainability #DenverResources
πβ¨ Congratulations to our 2024 CU Denver Puksta Graduate, Guinevere Vigil-Goltermann! πβ¨
Majoring in Geography and Urban Planning at CU Denver, Guinevere worked on an incredible project focused on educational access. They created a comprehensive database of historical resources that often go overlooked in traditional history education. ππ
"Puksta has given me a community on campus I did not have before." π
Join us in celebrating Guinevere`s achievements and the impactful work they have done to bring lesser-known history to light! ππ #PukstaFoundation #PukstaGraduates2024 #EducationalAccess #HiddenHistory #CUdenver #Community #Pukstaalumni #Classof2024
@guinny.actually