GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. (KREX) — Lupita Santiago grew up in Olathe, Colorado. She graduated from high school in 2019 and went to cosmetology school, but her COVID-19 pandemic prevented her from finishing. When pandemic restrictions eased, Santiago returned to school at Colorado Mesa University.

Outside of her classes, Santiago is the Latino Student Alliance Coordinator. She plans events and meetings, communicates with members, and runs the LSA’s social media accounts. Santiago will lead the way for CMU’s Latino Student Alliance this academic year. When Santiago graduates, she wants to be a leading voice for her culture in the Grand Valley.