For Aurora Nunez, being a first-generation college student isn’t just about breaking barriers—it’s about building a future. A sophomore at Holy Cross College and a South Bend native, Nunez was recently named a recipient of the prestigious Realizing the Dream Award, an honor given by the Independent Colleges of Indiana (ICI) to recognize outstanding first-generation students across the state.
Balancing academics, extracurriculars, and campus involvement is no easy feat, but Nunez has embraced the challenge. Majoring in Physical Therapy with a 3.7 GPA, she has immersed herself in campus life, working as a lab assistant, serving as a chemistry tutor, and actively participating in organizations like Latinos Unidos, the Biology Club, and support groups for first-generation students.
For Nunez, this scholarship isn’t just personal—it’s also a way to honor a mentor who helped guide her to Holy Cross. The award allows recipients to recognize an educator who played a significant role in their journey, and for Nunez, that person was her high school ceramics teacher, Paul Kuharic of St. Joseph High School.
Nunez will receive a $4,000 award for the honor and Kuharic will be given $1,000.
“He was always attentive to what people were going to do in their life and gave advice on choosing the right school,” Nunez said. “He influenced me to choose Holy Cross and reminded me to keep my options open while focusing on my career.”
On March 1, Nunez will travel to Indianapolis for a special luncheon celebrating the Realizing the Dream honorees. She’ll be joined by her family and Juan Maldonado, Holy Cross College’s Student Success Coordinator.
“As a first-generation student, Aurora epitomizes the willingness and motivation of so many students who take on the challenge of succeeding academically and in all areas of life,” said Br. Bill Zaydak, CSC, Director of the Office of Student Success. “Our team was delighted to nominate her based on the enthusiastic recommendations of faculty and staff.”
Sponsored by ICI, the Realizing the Dream Award supports first-generation students as they continue their academic journeys. Nunez’s recognition is not just a testament to her own dedication but also a reflection of the Holy Cross College community’s commitment to helping students thrive.