The ceremony highlighted the leadership and excellence of students, faculty, and members of the university community.
By Institutional Communications
As the academic year comes to a close, the Student Support Program (PAE, by its Spanish acronym) recognized 166 students for their academic achievements during a ceremony that brought together families, faculty, and members of the university community to celebrate their journeys of perseverance and success.
Among the recognized students, 68 received the Academic Progress Medal, awarded to students who maintain a GPA between 3.50 and 3.79 and have completed at least 39 credits. Additionally, 98 students earned the Academic Excellence Medal for achieving GPAs between 3.80 and 4.00 with a minimum of 39 approved credits.
The ceremony also honored members of the university community whose paths reflect the commitment, leadership, and sense of belonging promoted by PAE.
PAE Collaborator of the Year
The PAE Collaborator of the Year recognition was awarded to Mariana Pagán Figueroa, Scholarship and Incentive Program Manager, for her commitment to service and student success, as well as the empathy and human-centered approach that have allowed her to build trusting relationships with students.
Success Story Award
The Success Story Award recognizes students who have overcome major challenges, made positive contributions to their communities, and demonstrated leadership. This year, the award was presented to degree candidate Kelvin L. Colomba.
Originally from Guayama, Colomba created the Noticias_KJ platform in 2023 to provide accessible information on topics relevant to the public. He has also worked as a journalist for Sagrado media outlets Radio Activa and STV Noticias, where he has stood out for his on-camera presence and ability to connect with audiences.
As a reflection of his dedication and determination, he has earned three Suncoast Emmy Awards throughout his academic journey.
PAE Perseverance and Spirit Award
For embodying the program’s values through perseverance and academic commitment, the PAE Perseverance and Spirit Award was presented to Naylea Otero Rodríguez, a Theater student in the School of Arts, Design and Creative Industries.
“Being part of this university community has been a privilege, but being part of PAE has been a blessing. Thanks to the support I received here, I have been able to achieve my academic goals and experience unforgettable opportunities, such as traveling outside Puerto Rico with my classmates,” expressed the degree candidate.
Distinguished Professor Award
The program presented the Distinguished Professor Award to Gerardo Pomales Ríos, assistant professor and academic leader of the 3D Animation, Visualization and Interactivity program at the School of Arts, Design, and Creative Industries, for promoting an interdisciplinary and innovative vision in student education.
His professional career has taken him to universities in Spain, Puerto Rico, Mexico, and the United States. As a professor, he is recognized for his genuine interest in helping each student discover their potential.
Distinguished Alumni Award
The Distinguished Alumni Award was presented to Augusto Lebrón Rodríguez in recognition of his 40 years of service and professional trajectory at Universidad del Sagrado Corazón as part of the Communications Center within the Ferré Rangel School of Communication.
The program highlighted his contributions to generations of students, as well as his sense of belonging and commitment to the university community — values that continue to inspire future generations of Sagrado students.
PAE at Universidad del Sagrado Corazón is an initiative that provides mentoring, academic and professional advising, personal counseling, and other support services aimed at strengthening the holistic development and academic progress of its participants.
For more information about the program, interested individuals may contact pae@sagrado.edu.