CHASKA, MN — May 20, 2026 — Highlighting the power of perseverance and community support, Vamos Impact is proud to announce the 2026 Vamos! Scholarship recipients from Chaska High School. Executive Director Juan Llerena recently visited the school to present these awards to graduating seniors Gonzalo Romero Rocha and Sebastian Leighton, celebrating their determination to overcome obstacles and pursue their academic dreams.
Each student was awarded a $1,500 scholarship to fund their upcoming collegiate journeys. These grants are designed to support talented Latino youth who are stepping into highly competitive fields; Gonzalo plans to double major in Finance and Business Analytics, while Sebastian aims to pursue a degree in Mechanical Engineering.
Celebrating What is Possible
For Vamos Impact, this year’s presentation at Chaska High School represents a celebration of grit and focus. The initiative seeks to empower students who view education as a vehicle for personal transformation and community leadership.
“This milestone is truly about celebrating what is possible when we refuse to give up,” said Juan Llerena, Executive Director of Vamos Impact. “Both Gonzalo and Sebastian have demonstrated incredible dedication to their futures. Our message to them as they graduate is simple: Keep pushing forward. We are so incredibly proud of you, and you have an entire community standing right behind you, supporting your next steps.”
A Foundation Built on Collaboration
The ongoing growth of the Vamos! Scholarship Fund is driven by shared values and strategic local alliances. This presentation was made possible through the vital support of community partners who believe in investing directly in local talent.
A special thank you goes to Americana Community Bank for serving as a Sustainable Sponsor. Without their continued collaboration and deep commitment to equity and education, empowering these future business and engineering leaders would not be possible. To learn more about their community initiatives, visit Americana Community Bank.
About Vamos Impact
Vamos Impact is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing Latino entrepreneurship, education, and economic mobility. Through initiatives like the Vamos! Scholarship Fund, the organization provides culturally relevant resources and financial support to help Latino leaders and students thrive in Minnesota. Learn more at vamosimpact.org.
Media Contact:
Juan Llerena, Executive Director
Vamos Impact
Email: info@vamosimpact.org
Website: www.vamosimpact.org