Merrillville

Viva College! Scholarship 2025

Our Viva College! Scholarship Luncheon shines a spotlight on talented Latino students and their incredible potential. The annual celebration recognizes recipients of our $2,000 Viva College! Scholarships, affirming the achievements of young people determined to pursue higher education and inspiring all who attend to believe in the power of community support.

This year’s luncheon featured award-winning children’s author Angela Cervantes as keynote speaker. Known for her Pura Belpré Honor book Lety Out Loud and her junior novelizations of Coco and Encanto, Angela brought powerful storytelling rooted in her Mexican-American heritage. Her message to “lead with your heart”—in both prose and life—resonated deeply with students, families, and community members, offering encouragement to pursue education with courage, creativity, and pride.

Held on September 11, 2025, at Avalon Manor near Merrillville, the event brought together more than 250 students, families, and community leaders for a day of celebration and inspiration. Together, we honored scholarship recipients, recognized the Latino/a Amigo of the Year, and celebrated the resilience, talent, and ambition of Latino youth. Browse the photos below to relive the highlights of this unforgettable day.