Hispanic Access Foundation officially announced the launch of its newly finalized 2026-2027 Mentor-Mentee cohort under the Pathways to Science program. This year-long college preparation and leadership program walks alongside local high school students in grades 10 through 12, equipping them with the tools, confidence, and networks needed to successfully transition into higher education and professional careers. This year, the program welcomes 28 youth who have previously attended Pathways to Science STEM and Health talks, pairing them with 14 established mentors across different career sectors.
By pairing these motivated high school students with accomplished professionals from different sectors, the program establishes trusted relationships that foster mutual growth. The initiative cultivates organic pipelines of opportunity by engaging local talent, expanding professional skills, and developing strong support networks that equip individuals to pursue a higher education.
Throughout the academic year, the selected student participants will attend monthly workshops focused on academic readiness, leadership development, and effective communication. Each workshop is paired with a one-on-one mentoring conversation, creating a dedicated space for reflection, career exploration in STEM and Health Sciences, and personal growth. Simultaneously, the program provides the post-graduate mentors with advanced coaching and leadership training, strengthening their capacity to serve as impactful leaders.
"True impact happens when we bring leadership development, trusted networks, and career pathway exposure together," said Yashira Valentin-Feliciano, STEM Program Manager of Hispanic Access Foundation. "With this year's Pathways to Science Mentor-Mentee cohort officially locked in, we are excited to see these equipped individuals share their knowledge, lift and inspire youth as they prepare for college, and ultimately shape the future of the science and health fields in the United States."
Hispanic Access Foundation develops and connects Latino leaders to influence systems, shape narratives, and drive collective action that strengthens communities and advances a thriving nation. Through Pathways to Science and other initiatives, the organization builds trusted regional networks that expand opportunity, foster leadership, and create lasting change.
For more information about Pathways to Science or to get involved, visit
https://hispanicaccess.org/what-we-do/senderos-a-la-ciencia
Research reported in this publication was supported by the National Institute Of General Medical Sciences of the National Institutes of Health under Award Number R25GM150175. The content is solely the responsibility of the authors and does not necessarily represent the official views of the National Institutes of Health.
