CELEBRATING FIRSTS

Amy Garrido Portillo ’25 was one of 29 students in Indiana selected to receive a “Realizing the Dream” scholarship from the Independent Colleges of Indiana (ICI). Only sophomores who attend ICI institutions were eligible; a grant from Lilly Endowment Inc. makes the scholarship program possible.

“Realizing the Dream” recognizes first-generation college students and pays tribute to their families and inspirational teachers. Franklin College nominated Garrido Portillo for the award based on the many achievements she has made since enrolling only two years ago. She serves as a Student Mentor and is active in the Art Club, FC Pride Alliance and Model U.N. She also was inducted into Tri-Alpha, a national honor society for first-generation college students, and earlier this academic year was one of two sophomores at Franklin to receive a Laurels and Lancers Award for first-year academics and community involvement.

The “Realizing the Dream” reception and awards dinner was held in Indianapolis, where students received plaques and $4,000 checks to assist with college costs.

“When I think about what this scholarship will do for me, the words peace and balance come to mind,” said Garrido Portillo. “Seeing as though in the past year I’ve worked three jobs at once on top of extracurricular activities and classes, time management has become my best friend. But peace and balance are something I’m still struggling with because of having to work those jobs so this scholarship will ease my financial burden significantly and will help allow me to take a step back and just be a student.”

Garrido Portillo majors in political science with a pre-law focus.

She said, “In simple terms, my dream is to help people. My ultimate goal is to become a