The Hispanic Public Relations Association (HPRA) has announced its 2026 scholarship recipients, awarding six students—the largest cohort in the program's history. Since its launch in 2022, the initiative has provided $50,000 in scholarships to 20 students, and this year marks the first time a high school senior has been selected, extending support to emerging talent earlier in their academic careers.
The 2026 recipients are Camila Garcia Chirino (University of Florida), Isabelle Flores (The University of Texas at Austin), Luis David Latozefsky (Stetson University), Melanie Herrera (Florida International University), Nasaiah Algarin (American University), and Xavier Ramirez (University of Southern California). They were chosen for academic achievement, leadership, community involvement, and commitment to communications, with interests spanning public relations, strategic communications, public affairs, entertainment and media, civic engagement, and social impact.
“The growth of this program is something our leadership is deeply proud of because it reflects what is possible when our industry invests intentionally in the next generation,” said HPRA National President Sonia V. Diaz. “With the support of partners like Aflac and H+M Communications, as well as individual donors, we have been able to expand our reach, open more doors, increase mentorship opportunities, and continue building a program that can make a meaningful impact in communities across the country.”
The expansion matters because it directly addresses the persistent lack of diversity in public relations and communications leadership. By providing financial support and professional development, HPRA aims to create greater access to education and industry opportunities for students pursuing careers in public relations, communications, marketing, and related fields. Beyond scholarships, recipients are connected to HPRA’s national network through mentorship, networking, and exposure to industry leaders, strengthening the pipeline of diverse talent entering the profession.
“Our scholarship winners inspire us every year with their stories,” said Natalie Asorey, Scholarship Committee Co-Chair. “We’re proud to support and champion them as they chart their paths in this industry.”
Among the recipients, Melanie Herrera of Florida International University will receive the Roshana Gossoff Memorial Scholarship, a $1,500 award for an FIU undergraduate demonstrating strong interest in public relations and communications. The scholarship honors Roshana Gossoff, a communicator, FIU alumna, and former HPRA Miami officer whose legacy continues to inspire.
In addition to the financial award, students will receive free access to HPRA National webinars and events, a mentorship and shadowing opportunity with a board member, and recognition at HPRA’s annual ¡BRAVO! Awards gala on Nov. 19, 2026, at the LA River Center and Gardens in Los Angeles. This year’s program theme, “Legacy in Motion,” honors the organization’s history and the leaders shaping each generation of communicators. The scholarship program represents one expression of that legacy: investing in emerging talent, creating greater access to opportunity, and ensuring that progress built over more than four decades continues forward.
For more information about HPRA and its initiatives, visit NOTICIAS NEWSWIRE.
