ABQ Times

The University of New Mexico has proudly announced that three of its students have been named as 2024-2025 Goldwater Scholars. Mia Baca, Victoria Nisoli, and Ariana Pritha have been selected for this prestigious honor from a competitive pool of candidates.

In response to the news, Honors College Scholarship Coordinator Kiyoko Simmons expressed her congratulations to the three scholars, emphasizing the significance of their achievement. Simmons remarked, “Earning this prestigious award not only validates their academic excellence but also underscores their potential to make significant contributions to their respective fields through their dedicated research efforts.”

Mia Baca, a junior majoring in chemical engineering, shared her gratitude upon being selected as a Goldwater Scholar. Baca highlighted her passion for science and expressed her excitement for the opportunity to contribute to global knowledge expansion. She credited her mentors for their support in her academic journey.

Victoria Nisoli, majoring in chemistry, also expressed her gratitude for being chosen as a Goldwater Scholar. Nisoli acknowledged the support of her mentors and professors, recognizing their role in her research work and academic development.

Ariana Pritha, a junior majoring in biochemistry and psychology, conveyed her honor at being recognized as a Goldwater Scholar. Pritha expressed deep gratitude for the mentorship she received from various individuals, emphasizing their pivotal role in shaping her research pursuits.

The Goldwater Scholarship, established in honor of U.S. Senator Barry M. Goldwater, provides financial support for students aiming to pursue a Ph.D. and a career in STEM research. The Foundation selected 438 Scholars based on academic merit, with the intention of furthering research in various fields. The three UNM scholars are poised to make impactful contributions to their respective disciplines.

The University of New Mexico has a history of success with Goldwater Scholarships, having produced 17 recipients in the past decade, with the most recent recipients being women. The institution's commitment to supporting students in their pursuit of prestigious scholarships is evident through initiatives such as the Center for Academic Excellence & Leadership Development.

The Goldwater Selection Committee at UNM, comprising esteemed faculty members, plays a crucial role in identifying outstanding nominees for the scholarship. The recognition of Mia Baca, Victoria Nisoli, and Ariana Pritha as Goldwater Scholars adds to the legacy of academic excellence at the University of New Mexico.