LUNA awards to be given Sunday
YOUNGSTOWN
Latinas United Networking Association will honor two scholarship recipients and the Estrella de LUNA recipient at the LUNA annual scholarship fundraiser from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. Sunday in the Helen Chapel at First Presbyterian Church, 201 Wick Ave.
The scholarship recipients are Ryan Bezzarro, son of Peggy and Robert Bezzarro, and Celeste Pagan, daughter of Aracelis and William Pagan.
Ryan is a sophomore at Westminster College, majoring in biology and pre-med and minoring in music. He is a member of the Pre-Med Society, Chemistry Club and Men’s Chorus.
Celeste is a sophomore at Youngstown State University, majoring in fashion merchandising and minoring in business. She is on the Dean’s List, participates in the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life and is a mentor with Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Mahoning County.
Graciela Perera, an assistant professor in YSU’s department of computer science and information systems, is the Estrella de LUNA recipient. The award is given to a Latina in the community who exemplifies generosity and dedication to the Hispanic community and is committed to the Mahoning Valley through community service.
Perera received her doctorate in computer science and engineering from the University of South Florida, and has been involved in efforts to increase the participation of women and Hispanics in the computer science fields.
In 2007, she was awarded a $10,000 grant from the Ohio Latino Affairs Commission to help increase the participation of Hispanics in computer science research education. She serves on numerous panels and speaks on issues that promote diversity among women, minorities and Hispanics.
She is part of the Computing Alliance for Hispanic-Serving Institutions.
Tickets to the fundraiser are $20. To purchase, contact ytownluna@sbcglobal.net or call 330-774-2808.