Liliana Pérez-Cardona joined the Scholarship Foundation in 2022 as programs coordinator and was later promoted to her current position, program manager. In this role, she oversees the organization’s application and payout processes, among other responsibilities. Born in Santa Maria and raised in Guadalupe, Lili graduated from Ernest Righetti High School in 2010. She went on to attend Allan Hancock College before earning a bachelor’s degree in sociology at Cal State Los Angeles and a master’s degree in higher education counseling and student affairs at Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo – both with support from the Scholarship Foundation. A former first-generation college student, she is the proud daughter of immigrants from Aguascalientes, Mexico, who are now retired after working for many years in the area’s agricultural sector.
How significant was the aid you received from the Scholarship Foundation?
Very, particularly when I was a graduate student. Balancing the demands of full-time work and full-time study was challenging, often resulting in many sleepless nights. Nevertheless, I persevered and earned my master’s degree with honors. I am deeply grateful to the donors and the Foundation for believing in me and making my academic journey possible!
How does it feel as a former scholarship recipient to be helping current students?
It’s both rewarding and humbling. I am always excited to inform the community about the Scholarship Foundation’s services. As a first-generation college student, I personally understand how overwhelming it can be to complete financial aid, scholarship, and university applications, so sharing resources is especially meaningful to me.
What is the biggest challenge of your job?
The most difficult part of my job is sending denial emails on May 15. We have so many deserving students but unfortunately are unable to support them all. I always encourage applicants to apply again the following scholarship cycle.
Did you intend to pursue this line of work?
Initially, I did not consider a career in the nonprofit sector. Once I learned about this Foundation and saw the impact it had on my personal, academic, and professional life and in the community, it intrigued me. I thought, “If the opportunity arises, I want to give back to the organization that has helped me so much.” Fortunately, when I decided to advance in my career, a position became available, and I was grateful to be offered a role.
What is your most memorable experience at the Scholarship Foundation?
My most memorable experiences are the award ceremonies in both North and South County. It is heartwarming to witness awardees and their families coming together to celebrate their achievements. The excitement, laughter, and smiles that fill the spaces create an atmosphere of genuine joy and pride. Learning about the recipients’ stories of perseverance and seeing their hard work acknowledged is incredibly inspiring. These moments remind me of the Foundation’s positive impact and reinforce the importance of supporting students in their educational endeavors.
What is the most gratifying part of your job?
The most rewarding aspect of my job is contributing to an organization dedicated to supporting students’ educational aspirations. It is inspiring to witness so many community members generously donating to a cause that is making a meaningful and positive impact on the world. Thanks to the support of donors and the Scholarship Foundation, recipients can pursue their educational ambitions and build careers in every imaginable field.