National Association of Puerto Rican Hispanic Social Workers

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    Scholarship for Graduate-Level Human and Social Services Professionals

    The National Association of Puerto Rican-Hispanic Social Workers is proud to offer four scholarship awards in honor of our esteemed cabinet members: Sonia Palacio Grottola, Ruth Negron-Gaines, Angeline Martinez, and Pauline Vasquez.

    These awards recognize and support graduate students in human and social services fields who demonstrate a strong commitment to serving Latino communities.

    Each recipient will receive a $1,000 scholarship to assist with their academic and professional journey. Open to students across the U.S., regardless of immigration status, this opportunity aims to uplift future leaders dedicated to equity and social justice.

    Under the leadership of Elizabeth Conde

    We are proud to reopen our scholarship program for the first time in five years—now offering more than financial support. This year’s Legacy Scholarship program provides ongoing guidance, resources, and community connections, continuing our tradition of uplifting future leaders beyond the award itself.

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    "When we believe in our Visionaries, we open doors for entire communities to rise—ensuring the next generation of leaders is never without guidance.”

    — Elizabeth Conde, LMSW, SIFI, AWA

    Second Vice-President and Scholarship Chairperson

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    “Representation matters, especially in mental health.”

    As an MSW student at Columbia University, Carina is focused on increasing access to mental health services for Latinx and neurodiverse communities. Her work combines advocacy, policy reform, and clinical training to close equity gaps and ensure students with disabilities have the resources they need to thrive. The Legacy Scholarship supports her path to becoming a somatic therapist and policy advocate.

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    “Language and culture should be a bridge, not a barrier.”

    The child of immigrant parents, Leticia has dedicated her career to making mental health care more accessible and culturally responsive for Latino and immigrant communities. Through bilingual counseling, advocacy, and legal support, she works to remove systemic barriers. The Legacy Scholarship helps her deepen her skills and expand her reach in community-based mental health.

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    “Every young person deserves someone to believe in them.”

    Medardo is dedicated to guiding students from middle school through college, ensuring they have the mentorship and resources to succeed. Currently working as a Care Coordinator, he connects families to essential services and champions culturally responsive mental health care. With the Legacy Scholarship, he is advancing toward his MSW and clinical licensure to expand his impact in underserved communities.

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    “When mothers are supported, whole communities thrive.”

    Laura is passionate about maternal mental health, working with immigrant and Latina mothers to ensure they receive comprehensive support during and after pregnancy. Her long-term vision includes creating two healing spaces—one in Queens, NY, and one in rural Paraguay—to serve underrepresented families. The Legacy Scholarship enables her to continue building clinical expertise and community leadership.

  • Legacy Scholarship Program Overview

    The Legacy Scholarship Program is designed to support and empower graduate-level students pursuing careers in social work, mental health, and human services. The program honors the legacy of past leaders while fostering the next generation of professionals committed to serving Latino communities.
    Recipients, known as Visionaries, will receive a $1,000 scholarship to help further their academic and professional journeys. In addition to financial support, each Visionary will participate in the Training Program, a virtual two-day intensive focused on essential skills in direct service, community organizing, leadership, policy, and program development.
    Through this experience, Visionaries will gain valuable knowledge and hands-on training to become effective change agents in their communities. They will also engage in a year-long mentorship program with seasoned professionals in their field, receiving guidance and support for their personal and professional growth.
    As part of their commitment, Visionaries will serve as liaisons between NAPRHSW and their universities, organizing a forum where NAPRHSW board members can engage with students and further the association’s mission.
    The Legacy Scholarship Program is a unique opportunity for emerging leaders to gain the skills, knowledge, and connections to make a lasting impact in the Latino community.

    Selection Criteria

    Eligibility:

    • Must be a first- or second-year graduate student in an accredited MSW, MHC, MFT, Psychology or human services program.
    • Must demonstrate a commitment to serving Latino communities.
    • Open to students across the U.S. regardless of immigration status.
    • Must be 21 years old and over.
    • Must be able to demonstrate a strong interest in community advocacy and community organization which could potentially impact the Latino Community.
    • Must be in need of financial assistance.

    Award Amount: $1,000

    Application Requirements:

    1. Personal Statement (750 words) – Describe your journey into the human and social services field, your commitment to serving marginalized communities, and how this scholarship will support your goals.
    2. Resume or CV – Highlight relevant experience, education, and leadership roles.
    3. Current Transcript- A current transcript to demonstrate proficient academic performance.
    4. Letter of Recommendation – From a professor, supervisor, or mentor who can speak to your dedication to the profession you are pursuing.
    5. Headshot and release of photo consent

    For any questions contact:

    Elizabeth Conde

    Scholarship Chair

    condesw@gmail.com

    Application Deadline: Sunday, June 15, 2025 at 11:59PM

    Thank you to all who have submitted.

    The scholarship application is now officially closed.

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    Cristina Arbucias

    2017 Recipient

    Fordham University

    Receiving this scholarship is a great honor. It has helped me in many ways during my last year of my graduate program, such as paying for my books. This is a great opportunity that allows me to take a summer class for a trauma certification, which will not only help further my career, but also in achieving my dream of working with children and families a lot sooner. Thank you to the National Association of Puerto Rican and Hispanic Social Workers, you have made a positive impact in my schooling and most importantly in my career.

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