Students Energized by Empower First Summer Program

Ricardo Zamora ’26, a Computer Science and Biblical Studies major, spent this past summer in Trinity’s Empower First program—developing and applying professional skills to projects that have energized him for his future.

Through the program, Ricardo completed a paid academic internship at Bible League International. As the Church Relations and Research intern, he managed a complex data dashboard—tracking poverty, illiteracy, and other statistics in the US—and represented the organization at conferences.

“This experience helped me understand my passions and skills more and instilled a laser focus in me as I enter my final year at Trinity. I am terribly grateful for the opportunity… Empower First has blessed me, and I pray that it will bless many more in the future,” says Ricardo.

Ricardo and his eight peers in this summer’s cohort met weekly with faculty to reflect on their experiences, strengthen communication skills, and encourage each other. The program also paired each student with a mentor in their field from a similar background, who could provide professional development and networking support.

Not too long ago, these opportunities were only accessible to students who could afford to work unpaid during the summer months.

But thanks to the partnership of Trinity supporters, Ricardo and his peers can access hands-on learning experiences without the burden of student debt—and they are one step closer to launching fulfilling careers.

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Empower First is one of several opportunities linked to Earn, Network, and Learn, part of Trinity’s Transformative Colleges Initiative (TCI). The program is designed to support BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color), FGLI (First-Generation and Low-Income) students who are seeking a paid internship and academic credit during the summer months.

If you are a student or employer and want to explore opportunities with Empower First, our Dean of Student Success Services, Rocio Mendez-Rozo, would love to hear from you at rmendez-rozo@trnty.edu.

To learn more about how you can support Trinity students participating in these transformational opportunities, visit trnty.edu/donors or contact Mackenzi Huyser, Vice President for Advancement, at mackenzi.huyser@trnty.edu.