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Highlights

The most important goal of the TRIO programs here at UCF is to grow and mold scholars of the future! We are beyond proud of the accomplishments of our talented scholars in both our pre-collegiate and collegiate programs!!

Here is where we honor YOU!!! YOU are the proof that #TRIOworks. Check out some of the honors and accolades our scholars have achieved while in our TRIO programs.

Collegiate (SSS) Programs

Project Best

  • Kenny Voltair, Junior, Nursing

    Majoring in Nursing, Kenny is also active in various clubs and orgs such as Brother2Brother and Adventist Christian Fellowship. He also serves as an Ambassador, a leadership and mentoring program, within Project BEST. Kenny’s goal is to become a Nurse Practitioner and travel the world! 

PRIME STEM

Current Scholars

Tariqullah Wardak​

Tariqullah is a Junior studying Aerospace Engineering. He joined the Nanoscience Technology Centerwhere he started research on Composite & Structural Batteries for Aerospace Applications. His research was selected in the CECS Top 5 of undergraduate research projects and featured in the UCF News article “Students Recognized for Undergraduate Research.” Through this research, Tariqullah has reinforced his passion to improve the efficiency and sustainability of aviation.

Ornella Vintimilla​

Ornella is a Senior studying Biomedical Sciences. Recently, she presented research on the physical/mental health impacts of COVID-19 on Hispanic/Latino students during the Florida Undergraduate Research Conference (FURC) 2025, at USF in Tampa.

David Alicia

David Alicea is a Junior studying Mechanical Engineering. He is a transfer student who is trying to get an internship with Limbitless Solutions, a research group that helps kids get 3d printing bionic arms for kids who are born without or lost an arm. David also has experience with research with NSF LSAMP at his community college. The experience helped with 3d printing light switch covers and testing the strength and durability of 3d printing. He hopes to help others with physical disabilities especially since he struggles with ASD and wishes to help make the world a more accessible place for everyone.

Graduated Scholars

Veronica Soto

Veronica is graduated, as a first-gen Latina, with a Bachelor’s of Science in Health Sciences. She faced many challenges, and worked part-time, while balancing a demanding STEM course load. These struggles taught her resilience, organization, and the importance of mental health. After graduation, she plans to work a clinical externship while preparing for the MCAT and medical school. Veronica is grateful for the support of her parents and the resources of PRIME STEM and is excited about the future ahead.

Harold Dawson

Harold exemplifies the qualities of a high-performing, mission driven professional whose unique background and contributions distinguish him as a true asset to NASA and the Pathways Internship Program. He has already delivered tangible results across multiple high impact projects in pressure vessel systems and Artemis mission planning. As a direct result of his outstanding performance, he has been offered a full-time position with NASA upon graduation.

Chelsea Bermudez

Chelsea is graduated with a Bachelors of Science in Health Sciences and a minor in Health Services Administration. She plans to apply to medical school and further her education with healthcare certifications. She is very proud to be a PRIME Stem Scholar since this program has helped her meet others in her field as well as guide her as a first-generation college student. She’s super excited for what the future holds after her time at UCF ends.

Pre-Collegiate (UB) Programs

Project ACE

  • Sharon Gonzalez-Ortiz, Apopka H.S., Class of 2023 

    Sharon is interested in the Biomedical Field. She has received multiple admissions offers and plans to attend the University of South Florida.  

  • Jhakiera Collington, Apopka H.S., Class of 2024 

    Jhakiera is interested in Sports Management. She joined Upward Bound in her freshman year and has attended the Summer Academy. She has maintained a strong GPA while working part-time all through high school. Her first-choice school is UCF.  

Project EDGE

  • Ely’cia Lorde, Edgewater H.S. Class of 2024 

    Ely’cia was recently selected to serve as the 2023 MLK Humanitarian for Edgewater High School. This title is awarded to those who exemplify the ideals embraced by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., through their character and leadership. She excels academically balancing four dual enrollment courses and maintaining all As. She has been an Upward Bound scholar since her freshman year in high school. 

  • Catherine Nollie, Edgewater H.S. Class of 2023 

    Catherine was recently awarded a Questbridge Scholarship to Columbia University. In addition, she was recognized by College Board’s National African American Recognition Program and became an Horatio Alger National Scholar. She joined Upward Bound her sophomore year, and she believes Upward Bound gave her the confidence and tools she needed to succeed in high school and beyond.