PULLMAN, Wash.–Washington State University student Lourdes Reyna has been invited to speak during the 2011 High School Equivalency Program (HEP)/College Assistance Migrant Program (CAMP) National Conference in Washington, D.C., July 21-22.
Reyna is a junior at WSU from A.C. Davis High School in Yakima, Wash. She is majoring in sociology and criminal justice.
When Josue Estrada, director of WSU’s CAMP Program, learned that organizers of the HEP/CAMP National Conference were looking for student speakers, Reyna immediately came to mind.
In his nomination for Reyna, he indicated she has an amazing story to share with others.
“Early in her life she experienced the loss of a parent, family separation, worked in agriculture, and got behind in high school credits,” he wrote. “But through all these trials she remained optimistic and graduated on time.”
While attending WSU Reyna has participated in CAMP and the Student Support Services Program. Last summer she became the first sophomore ever to be accepted into WSU’s McNair Achievement Program. She plans to pursue a doctorate degree in sociology.
Reyna said she is honored to have the opportunity to represent WSU at the Conference. “I want to share with others how these programs have impacted my life and the lives of many others,” she said. “I want people to know that these programs need to the funding to continue into the future.”
Soon after arriving at WSU, Reyna experienced some health problems. Her parents strongly pleaded for her to come home where they could keep a better eye on her condition. She decided to remain at WSU and credits the CAMP staff for providing essential academic and personal support that helped her through her challenging situation.
“It is because of the dedication of these staff members that I am so motivated to do my best to try to go above and beyond what everyone else does.”
Reyna joined 10 other WSU students in attending a CAMP Consortium last year. There she and the other students received training that led to the creation of a leadership conference at WSU for students with migrant and seasonal farmworker backgrounds.
Last semester Reyna traveled to Denver, Colorado, to compete in a mock trial competition.
Estrada said she has what he calls the “ganas” factorthe will and passion to motivate others with her presence.
“She is a very bright and talented individual who challenges herself at every corner.”