As a first-generation college student, Evelyn Cruz says that “What really captivated me about St. Lawrence was how open-minded people were and eager to learn about my Mexican heritage.” She admits to not expecting to receive a Community Service Scholarship, quickly adding that she was “honored and truly grateful” when she learned she’d been offered one.  
“The scholarship made me realize that the dream of going to college was not just a dream,” she explains. “My family was going through some financial difficulties; college was the last thing on my mind. The scholarship told me that St. Lawrence would support me in obtaining an education, and especially that they believed that I could obtain it.”

Evelyn is active with La Sociedad Hispana (the Hispanic Society) and the African Student Union “because I believe in expanding students’ knowledge and perception of two of the ever-growing communities on campus.” On the community service front, she is tutoring Spanish at Canton Middle School; she sees this also as “an opportunity to show my culture to these students who are preparing to enter a world that is filled with diversity.” She also volunteers at CAVA (Citizens Against Violent Acts), helping victims of sexual abuse.