Merrill Scholars honor mentors who inspired them | Cornell Chronicle

"“As someone who wants to be a public servant and be an advocate, not only did you help me find my voice, but you helped me find it in a way that would bring positive change to the world,” said Aguilera-Garza, a government and American studies double major with a minor in law and society, expressing gratitude for the lifelong lessons she learned from Paul Gaba, her high school debate coach - “not only a teacher and a mentor, but a friend that I will carry with me forever.”"

"Aguilera-Garza was one of 31 Merrill Presidential Scholars who gathered at the 38th annual Merrill Presidential Scholars luncheon May 19 at Willard Straight Hall to celebrate the high school and Cornell mentors who contributed most significantly to their early education and college experience, respectively. The scholars are graduating seniors selected by deans of the university's 10 undergraduate colleges and schools based on outstanding scholastic achievement, evidence of leadership and their desire to positively affect the world beyond Cornell."

"“Cornell means so much to so many, and does so much, that it's important that we have these reminders that the central function of any university is teaching new generations of students: opening their minds to the world of ideas, and preparing them for lives of greater meaning and impact,” President Michael I. Kotlikoff said in his opening remarks."

"The high school educators and mentors are brought to Cornell, all expenses paid, for the two-day program, which includes dinner with students and"

Senior Carolina Aguilera-Garza’s path to Cornell began in Paul Gaba’s classroom, where debate training strengthened her voice and passion for politics. She credits her high school debate coach as a teacher, mentor, and friend who helped her advocate for positive change. Aguilera-Garza was one of 31 Merrill Presidential Scholars celebrated at the 38th annual luncheon at Willard Straight Hall. The scholars are graduating seniors selected for scholastic achievement, leadership, and a desire to affect the world beyond Cornell. High school mentors traveled from multiple U.S. states and abroad, representing many disciplines. Cornell President Michael I. Kotlikoff emphasized teaching as the university’s central function, opening minds to ideas and preparing students for meaningful impact.

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