The Hispanic Public Relations Association (HPRA) announced its 2026 scholarship recipients on September 30, 2026, marking the largest class in the program’s history. Six students will receive scholarships, bringing the total awarded since the program’s 2022 inception to 20 students and $50,000. The announcement was made via NOTICIAS NEWSWIRE.
The 2026 recipients are Camila Garcia Chirino of the University of Florida, Isabelle Flores of The University of Texas at Austin, Luis David Latozefsky of Stetson University, Melanie Herrera of Florida International University, Nasaiah Algarin of American University, and Xavier Ramirez of the University of Southern California. For the first time, the program includes a high school senior, extending HPRA’s support to emerging talent earlier in their academic journey.
Scholars were selected based on academic achievement, leadership, community involvement, and commitment to communications. Their interests span public relations, strategic communications, public affairs, entertainment and media, civic engagement, and social impact.
“The growth of this program is something our leadership is deeply proud of because it reflects what is possible when our industry invests intentionally in the next generation,” said HPRA National President Sonia V. Diaz. “With the support of partners like Aflac and H+M Communications, as well as individual donors, we have been able to expand our reach, open more doors, increase mentorship opportunities, and continue building a program that can make a meaningful impact in communities across the country.”
Beyond financial assistance, recipients gain access to HPRA’s national network through mentorship, professional development, networking opportunities, and exposure to industry leaders. The program aims to strengthen the pipeline of diverse talent entering public relations and communications fields.
Melanie Herrera of Florida International University was selected to receive the Roshana Gossoff Memorial Scholarship, a $1,500 award given to an FIU undergraduate demonstrating a strong interest in public relations and communications. The scholarship honors Roshana Gossoff, a former HPRA Miami officer and FIU alumna whose legacy continues to inspire the South Florida community.
“Our scholarship winners inspire us every year with their stories,” said Natalie Asorey, Scholarship Committee Co-Chair. “We’re proud to support and champion them as they chart their paths in this industry.”
In addition to the monetary award, students will receive free access to HPRA National webinars and events, a mentorship and shadowing opportunity with a board member, and recognition at HPRA’s annual ¡BRAVO! Awards gala on November 19, 2026, at the LA River Center and Gardens in Los Angeles.
This year’s program theme, “Legacy in Motion,” honors HPRA’s history and the leaders shaping each generation of communicators. The expansion of the scholarship program reflects HPRA’s ongoing commitment to creating greater access to opportunity and ensuring that progress built over more than four decades continues forward.
