40 Years of Impact: Celebrating the Mercile J. Lee Scholars Program

Over the past four decades, the Mercile J. Lee Scholars program has been a transformative force, empowering countless students to achieve their academic and professional dreams. To honor this milestone, we’ve gathered inspiring stories and valuable advice from our alumni, who have navigated diverse paths and forged their unique journeys.

As we reflect on the rich history and experiences of our scholars, we also look to the future, envisioning new opportunities for growth, collaboration, and impact within our vibrant community.

Advice From Alumni

“Never turn down opportunities for your future. Although you may still be figuring out interests or what you want your career to look like, opportunities such as committees, internships, shadowing, even a job could lead you towards some affirmation or career exploration.

Even if the opportunity didn’t work for you, you at least now know that this is something you do not wish to continue to study or do. Any exploration leads you a step closer to knowing what is next, and this journey can be exciting! You will know what is best for you, so listen to your passions and your inner monologue!”

Sofia Garcia-Garbuno
Powers-Knapp Scholar
Education Studies ’22
DDEEA Career Development Coordinator

“Be open to careers that are not directly related to your major. There are countless ways the world could use your talents and with a broad education from the University of Wisconsin–Madison, you should never feel boxed in to only specific types of careers or industries based on what you majored in. Always remain open to possibilities you may not have considered for yourselves. You never know where they might lead.”

Alicia Hazen
Powers-Knapp Scholar
Communication Arts ’00
Assistant Dean & Career Services Director

“I built the skill of active listening. Often in advising scholars and working with young people in general, I received the most praise and affirmation when I said the least in a conversation, instead asking questions and following up with what I hear. This is a skill that Mercile and other program staff intentionally taught me. I hope future generations of Mercile J. Lee Scholars and alumni take their lessons and resources and pay them forward.”

Joe Maldonado
Sociology & African American Studies ’05
UW–Extension Community Youth Development Program Manager

“If you are surrounding yourself with only people that look like you and think like you, then you will miss the greatest opportunity to experience diversity of thought and representation that you will ever have. I was a member of La Union Puertoriquena but did many things and even attended Mecha, Wunk Sheek, Asian Pacific American Coalition, and Black Student Union.

These experiences changed my life and built lifelong friendships. Most of you will never get another chance to really step outside your comfort zone and hear from those different from you and learn from the incredible perspectives that make up our society like you do at UW.”

Justin Kruger
History & Comparative Literature ’05
Madison Metropolitan School District Teacher

“Dive in and soak up every opportunity the Mercile J. Lee Scholars Program offers: networking, events, and any opportunities to connect with current and former scholars. As much as possible, attend the numerous no-cost events on campus; the opportunities are endless! Be sure to attend any office hours for your classes. It will make a significant impact on your academic experience and you will feel more connected to your coursework.”

Marlena Holden
Powers-Knapp Scholar
English & Women’s Studies ’00
Marketing & Communications

“Speak the language of gratitude. Cling to those amazing, supportive people who believe in you; wrap them around you like bubble wrap against the sharp thoughts and words of others. Get involved in your community, see the world, do work in service of others, and capture your story and your growth in pictures, writing, or video. Spend time daydreaming by bodies of water, give yourself grace, read a lot, and don’t feel guilty reaching for treats after life’s tricks.”

Jessica Lee Stovall
Chancellor’s Scholar
Secondary Education ’07
Assistant Professor of African American Studies

“Always stay true to yourself and don’t let anyone dim your unique sparkle! Also, be intentional to cultivate strong relationships at UW–Madison with people who encourage you, including academic and career advisors, faculty, staff, your scholarship advisors, and of course, friends!”

Lauren Anderson
Chancellor’s Scholar
Gender & Women’s Studies & Environmental Studies ’15
UW–Madison Academic Advisor

“One of the best things you can do for your career development is making connections with professionals in the field early on. A lot of the professionals I considered mentors as an undergraduate turned out to be great colleagues down the road!”

Kyle Martinez
Powers-Knapp Scholar
Political Science ’18
UW–Madison Graduate Program Manager

“Dig in. Just dig into what ever it is you may be focused on, or want to accomplish in life.”

Hershel Miller
Powers-Knapp Scholar
Business: Marketing & HR Management ’01
Sales Management – Marketing

“Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there and try new things! I know it can be scary to be outside of your comfort zone, but that’s where we tend to grow the most. One of my friends (and fellow MJL scholar) always used to say, “If you can laugh about it tomorrow, do it today,” and that’s something I still try to live by.”

Rachel Nguyen
Chancellor’s Scholar
Marketing & International Business ’23
Undergraduate Engagement Coordinator

“This life is short. We can work to blow other people’s candle light out or we can work to make everyone shine a little brighter together. Happiness does not live in hyper-competitive dominance over others. Happiness and success live in human connections, creativity, vulnerability and courage. Go make your mark with heart.  You can do this.”

Anna Pirkl
American Indian Enterprises ’95
Counselor & Therapist

“All Mercile J. Lee scholars NEED to go abroad. Going abroad was my favorite part of my undergrad, and MJLSP helps you get there.”

Maria Rivera
Chancellor’s Scholar
Animal & Veterinary Biosciences ’24
UW–Madison Veterinary Student

“You may have to find the mentorship that fits right for you. I went through many mentors to find my right fit.”

Ariana Thao
Chancellor’s Scholar
Political Science & Sociology ’20
Law Student

“Don’t rush your journey. Take the time to savor every moment no matter how big or small. Your undergrad is the time to embrace opportunities for growth, both academically and personally, which is what makes it some of the most memorable moments in life. While you are working hard academically, don’t forget to enjoy the freedom and excitement of discovering who you are!”

Pahouachua Thor
Powers-Knapp Scholar
Education Studies & Communication Arts ’23
Financial Aid Advisor

“YOU ARE A MERCILE J. LEE SCHOLAR. That means so much. You were chosen to be a part of a selective and incredible community of scholars. Life is full of challenges and hardships, but by believing in yourself and your fellow scholars, anything is possible. Never give up on your goals.“

Johnny Uelmen
Biology & Epidemiology ’17
UW–Madison Assistant Professor in Population Health Sciences

“The village will always catch you when you fall. Rest assured that when life’s path becomes tough or unclear, you are not alone.”

Diana Yang
Chancellor’s Scholar
Computer Sciences ’24