As the son and grandson of Honduran immigrants, Leonardo Estrada Pineda carries a deep sense of gratitude, faith, and purpose. Each day, he strives to honor his family’s sacrifices by working hard, serving others, and pursuing excellence. A proud CEF scholarship recipient, Leo is a senior at Bishop Ward High School, where he is an honor roll student, member of the National Honor Society, and active in Friends in Faith and Campus Ministry. He has also completed internships with Burns & McDonnell and ProEx, and participated in Servant Leadership Camp and BCYC. “Without the opportunity to attend Bishop Ward, I know I would not be on the same path I am today,” Leo shares. “Attending a Catholic school has brought me closer to my faith in Jesus and impacted my life on a whole other level.” Inspired by his love of science and exploration, Leo is taking college courses and plans to pursue a degree in engineering or astronomy. His ultimate goal is to help others in need and provide for his future family, mother, and grandmother, just as they have supported him.

As the child of Mexican immigrants, Jaime Vega strives to honor his parents’ sacrifices. In the fifth grade, he transferred to Our Lady of Unity Catholic School (OLU) and his life took a pivotal turn. Catholic education deepened Jaime’s faith and lead the way for him to develop impactful connections. Dedicated teachers at OLU and Bishop Ward High School guided his personal and academic growth, while fostering a passion for community service. “The people I’ve met at Bishop Ward have made me who I am today,” says Jaime. “CEF scholarships are truly a blessing and an honor.” After graduating high school, Jaime plans to attend college to study mechanical engineering. He aims to make a positive impact on the world by creating machines that improve people’s lives.