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As a student who strives for excellence, Lienhard School of Nursing student Samuel Silva Ortiz is proud to be the first member of his family to graduate from a university in the United States.

His accomplishments have been a great source of pride for his family. So much that his aunt traveled all the way from Colombia to watch him receive awards for Outstanding Academic Achievement in Undergraduate Nursing and achieving Latin Honors Summa Cum Laude at the College of Health Profession’s Award Ceremony in Pleasantville. “I am beyond proud of Samuel,” said Samuel’s Aunt Martha. “He is the first in our family to earn a bachelor’s degree in nursing. I have seen him work tirelessly to get to this point and can't wait to see what he accomplishes next!” Her hope is that Samuel will continue his education and focus on addressing healthcare issues that affect the Hispanic community.​

To honor his parents and the sacrifices they made for their family, Samuel decorated his graduation cap with the statement, “Product of the American Dream.” His parents both immigrated from Colombia, working hard to build futures for themselves and their children. “My success is also my parents’ success,” said Samuel. “I want to inspire my younger siblings and others to pursue their goals and trust that the American Dream is alive and well!”

My success is also my parents’ success. I want to inspire my younger siblings and others to pursue their goals and trust that the American Dream is alive and well!

- Samuel Silva Ortiz

Samuel’s goal is to become an acute care nurse practitioner and acknowledges his family was his motivation to succeed. “I am dedicated to being a nurse and I'm so grateful to my wonderful family, classmates, and professors for supporting me throughout my academic journey,” said Samuel. “It has been amazing to be able to share this moment with them.”