ALPFA announces the 2026 Scholarship Recipients, investing in the next generation of student leaders
CHARLOTTE, N.C., Oct. 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- ALPFA proudly announced the recipients of its 2026 Student Scholarship Program during the 2026 ALPFA Convention, awarding $1.4 million to 334 students in recognition of their academic excellence, leadership, and commitment to making a lasting impact in their communities across North America. This year's scholarship recipients reflect the talent, resilience and ambition shaping the future of business, technology, healthcare, finance, public service and entrepreneurship. With awards ranging from $2,500 to $10,000, the program represents ALPFA's continued investment in expanding access to higher education and professional opportunity.
Join us in expanding pathways to education, opportunity and career growth for the next generation of leaders. Support ALPFA's continued investment in students and communities.
Impact in Action
The ALPFA 2026 Student Scholarship Program awarded $1.4 million to 334 students, representing 122 colleges and universities across 31 states. The recipients included 240 first-generation college students and 203 students across 52 Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs), highlighting the program's reach across institutions serving our communities nationwide.
A Commitment to Opportunity
"At ALPFA, we want every student to see a future where their culture and their career pull in the same direction where who they are becomes a source of strength in who they are becoming. These scholarships help create that future by expanding access to education, opportunity, relationships and experiences that can change the trajectory of a life. We are proudly rooted in Latino culture and open to all, building a community where people can learn from one another, lead authentically and use their success to create opportunity for the people who follow. When we invest in these students, we are investing in the leaders who will help build a better future for all of us." said Damian Rivera, President and CEO of ALPFA
The ALPFA Student Scholarship Program is designed to remove financial barriers to higher education while connecting students to a national network of mentors, corporate partners, and career development opportunities. Reflecting ALPFA's commitment to creating pathways to opportunity, the scholarship program welcomes students across all majors and backgrounds who meet application, academic and enrollment criteria. Beyond academic achievement, recipients are recognized for their leadership, service, resilience, and commitment to advancing their community.
"At ALPFA, investing in our students' education is a commitment to the dreams of our community," said Maria V. Fernandez, Student Programs Manager. "We see education as an accelerator, one that can transform the trajectory of a student's life and create an impact that reaches far beyond any single award. When we invest in them, we are also investing in the people they will mentor, the doors they will open, and the generations that will follow. That is how a scholarship becomes more than financial support. It becomes a lasting legacy of opportunity."
With more than 1,400 applications, the 2026 scholarship recipients represent a diverse group of emerging leaders bringing their own experiences, ambitions and perspectives to the next chapter of their academic and professional journeys. They are pursuing degrees across a wide range of disciplines, including business, engineering, healthcare, technology, and more, reflecting the strength and diversity of multicultural talent across undergraduate, graduate, and community college programs.
Meet the Scholars
Hear directly from some of our scholarship recipients and learn about their experiences here.
Several recipients shared what receiving an ALPFA scholarship means to them:
"You have given me more than a scholarship—you have given me the confidence to push forward, knowing that I am not just building a career for myself, but a pathway for those who will follow in my footsteps." – Daniela Correa, Hult International Business School
"Beyond the financial support, this recognition serves as a reminder that hard work, perseverance, and community involvement matter. Through ALPFA, I have developed valuable leadership skills, built meaningful relationships, and gained access to opportunities that have shaped my career path. This scholarship motivates me to continue striving for excellence, give back to my community, and create opportunities for others who share similar aspirations." – Lorelys Alvarez, Lehman College CUNY
Creating Pathways for What's Next
The 2026 Student Scholarship Program was made possible through the generous support of our partners, whose commitment helped ALPFA award $1.4 million to 334 students. Their investment extends beyond financial support, helping scholars pursue their ambitions, build on their strengths and translate their potential into meaningful career impact.
This year, 8 scholarship recipients were also selected for fellowship opportunities, extending that investment through continued professional development, mentorship and career experiences. Together, these opportunities help prepare the next generation of professionals to contribute, lead and shape the future of the workforce.
Scholarships are one of the many ways ALPFA invests in the next generation of leaders. Through 270+ student chapters and 50+ professional chapters, ALPFA provides year-round access to career resources, mentorship, bootcamps, leadership development and a nationwide professional network. At the 2026 ALPFA Convention, 5,800+ attendees—including 3,200+ professionals, 2,600+ students, 370+ executives and 250+ speakers—came together, creating opportunities for students to connect with leading employers, expand their networks, build career-ready skills and take the next step in their professional journeys.
Learn more about our scholarship eligibility requirements and application criteria and fellowship opportunities designed to support students' continued professional development and career growth.
Join us in building pathways to opportunity and investing in the leaders of tomorrow.
About ALPFA
Founded in 1972, ALPFA is the nation's leading professional association dedicated to empowering and developing leaders. With a nationwide network of professional and student chapters, ALPFA provides leadership development, career opportunities, mentorship, and community to professionals and students across every stage of their careers. Through strategic partnerships with leading organizations, ALPFA continues to create pathways for the next generation of leaders while advancing representation across every industry.
ALPFA
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