ALPFA Awards $1.4M in Scholarships to 334 Students

For 334 students, October 1st became the day their educational dreams got a major boost forward.

ALPFA, a national professional organization, announced its 2026 scholarship recipients at its annual convention in Charlotte, awarding $1.4 million to students pursuing careers in fields from healthcare to technology. Among the winners, 240 are first-generation college students breaking new ground for their families.

The recipients represent 122 colleges and universities across 31 states. More than 200 attend Hispanic-Serving Institutions, reflecting the program's reach into communities where opportunity can be hardest to find.

Individual awards ranged from $2,500 to $10,000, chosen from more than 1,400 applications. Students are pursuing degrees across diverse fields including business, engineering, and public service at undergraduate, graduate, and community college levels.

"At ALPFA, we want every student to see a future where their culture and their career pull in the same direction," said Damian Rivera, President and CEO. The scholarships aim to remove financial barriers while connecting students to a nationwide network of mentors and corporate partners.

Eight recipients were also selected for fellowship opportunities, adding professional development and career experiences to their financial support. These students will gain access to mentorship programs and hands-on experiences designed to prepare them for leadership roles.

The Ripple Effect

The impact extends far beyond tuition checks. ALPFA operates 270 student chapters and 50 professional chapters nationwide, providing year-round career resources and leadership development.

At this year's convention, 5,800 people gathered, including 2,600 students who connected with leading employers and built professional networks. For many first-generation students, these connections open doors that might otherwise remain closed.

"When we invest in these students, we are investing in the leaders who will help build a better future for all of us," Rivera explained. The organization welcomes students across all majors and backgrounds who meet academic and enrollment criteria.

Daniela Correa from Hult International Business School captured what receiving the scholarship means: "You have given me more than a scholarship. You have given me the confidence to push forward, knowing that I am not just building a career for myself, but a pathway for those who will follow in my footsteps."

Lorelys Alvarez from Lehman College added that the recognition reminds her that "hard work, perseverance, and community involvement matter."

The scholarships were made possible through corporate partners whose investment helps translate student potential into meaningful career impact. For 334 students and their families, this support means one less barrier between them and their goals.