Latin Americans Working for Achievement (LAWA) Welcomes Elon University as Newest Scholarship Matching Partner

Latin Americans Working for Achievement | Charlotte, NC 28209 | lawa@lawanc.org

Charlotte, September 15, 2025 – Latin Americans Working for Achievement (LAWA) is proud to announce Elon University as its newest scholarship matching partner, expanding LAWA’s growing network of higher education partners committed to advancing educational opportunities for Latino students. Elon becomes LAWA’s 9th matching university partner, furthering a shared mission of supporting student success, particularly for first-generation college students.

Elon University has long been recognized for its leadership in creating inclusive pathways for students from diverse backgrounds. The university’s First-Generation Student Support Services program provides tailored resources and mentoring for students who are the first in their families to attend college, helping them navigate both the academic and social aspects of higher education.

In addition, Elon’s Center for Race, Ethnicity, and Diversity Education (CREDE) plays a pivotal role in fostering belonging and empowerment for students, while El Centro, a welcoming space for Spanish language and cultural engagement, helps students and the broader campus community discover and celebrate Latino culture and build meaningful cross-cultural connections.

“Elon University’s commitment to student success aligns beautifully with LAWA’s mission to promote economic mobility for Latino families through higher education,” said Daniela Izurieta, President & CEO of LAWA. “We are thrilled to partner with Elon to ensure that Latino and first-generation students not only access higher education but thrive once they’re there.”

As a scholarship matching partner, Elon University will provide matching funds to LAWA Scholars who enroll at the institution, effectively doubling the impact of LAWA scholarships. This collaboration underscores both organizations’ dedication to equity, access, and community empowerment through education. With this new partnership, LAWA continues to expand its network of institutions that are committed to ensuring Latino students have the financial support and wraparound services they need to achieve academic and professional success.

About LAWA

Founded in 1992, Latin Americans Working for Achievement (LAWA) promotes economic mobility in the Charlotte region by empowering Latino families through strategic investments in higher education. Through scholarships, mentorship, and educational programming, LAWA equips students to persist through college and into meaningful careers.

About Elon University

Elon University, located in Elon, North Carolina, is recognized nationally for engaged and experiential learning. With robust support programs such as First-Generation Student Services, the Center for Race, Ethnicity, and Diversity Education, and El Centro, Elon continues to lead in building inclusive, student-centered pathways for success.

Media Contact:

Daniela Izurieta

President & CEO

Latin Americans Working for Achievement (LAWA)

dizurieta@lawanc.org

Eric Townsend

Assistant Vice President for Strategic Communications and Media Relations

etownsend4@elon.edu

Elon University