We are proud to announce that Sophia Ponce has been selected to attend the 2026 NCCEP/GEAR UP Annual Conference in Washington, DC!
Sophia earned this incredible opportunity through a competitive application process that included an essay and teacher recommendation letters.
This makes 2 years in a row one of our Seminoles is selected!
She was chosen by UTRGV GEAR UP staff as a standout student to represent Sauceda STEAM Academy, Donna ISD, and our entire community.
To celebrate, we surprised Sophia and her family during lunch with a special recognition for such a memorable moment!
This summer, Sophia and a family member will enjoy an all-expenses-paid trip, where she will participate in leadership development at the Youth Leadership Summit from July 18–23!
Way to represent and congrats again!