The Heart of SSU in action: A scholarship sending positive impact across generations
Like many first-generation college students, during her time at SSU Nataly Hernandez navigated higher education and its financial challenges largely on her own. Between financial pressure and the uncertainty that comes with being the first in a family to pursue a degree, staying enrolled wasn’t just about academics – it was about whether she could afford to keep going at all.
Then she received the Heart of SSU Alumni Scholarship.
“Rather than worrying about how to make ends meet, I was able to invest my time and energy into becoming the educator I aspired to be,” Hernandez said. “The scholarship not only eased financial burdens, but also affirmed that I belonged.”
Today, after completing her SSU bachelor’s degree in 2022 and her teaching credential in 2024, Hernandez is a second-grade dual immersion teacher in her hometown of Winters, California, supporting the next generation of bilingual learners in her community. She is also continuing her education, pursuing a master’s degree in Dual Language and English Learner Education.
Hernandez’s experience exemplifies why the Heart of SSU Alumni Scholarship exists.
Established by the Sonoma State Alumni Association, the scholarship provides a full year of tuition for high-achieving students with financial need — students who are deeply engaged on campus and committed to their communities.
As alumnus Joseph Huang ’02, ’04, ’18 put it, “education has the power to transform lives and shape generations to come.”
Since the first award in 2018, 10 students have received this life-changing support.
“My experience at Sonoma State was shaped by the support I received,” said alumna and Heart of SSU donor Libby Payan ’14. “I’m proud to give back and support today’s students as they pursue their goals.”
The impact of support for scholarships like the Heart of SSU doesn’t stop with one student.
“The impact of (donor) generosity reaches not only me, but also the students I teach every day,” Hernandez said, adding that she carries that support “into my classroom, where I strive to uplift and empower the next generation.”
Giving Day on April 23 is an opportunity for individuals across the SSU community to continue to create that kind of ripple effect.
The Heart of SSU Alumni Scholarship fund is one of a half dozen scholarship funds that donors can choose to support during Giving Day this year. Explore all of the campus departments, programs, and causes participating in Giving Day here.