Together We Rise: Laurie’s Story of Family, Resilience, and Impact
At Ednovate, our mission is to create Positive Multigenerational Change (PMC) by empowering students to succeed in college, uplift their families, and transform their communities. This commitment doesn’t end at graduation—it evolves. Laurie Cruz, our innovative Alumni Coordinator, embodies this evolution, driving new pathways to success for Ednovate graduates.
Laurie’s connection to Ednovate is more than professional—it’s deeply personal. Her brother Luis, a Stanford University senior, and her sister Diana, a USC business student, are proud Ednovate alumni. Laurie’s mother, Isabel, works as an Enrollment Specialist at Ednovate, ensuring families can access the opportunities that transformed her own. Now, Laurie is making her own mark by reimagining alumni support.
As Alumni Coordinator, Laurie plays a groundbreaking role in keeping Ednovate alumni connected to a community that nurtures their dreams long after high school. Through mentorship programs, career workshops, and ongoing college support, she’s building an innovative network that ensures every graduate thrives. Reflecting on her work, Laurie shares: “My role isn’t just about staying in touch with alumni; it’s about creating a bridge that connects them to resources, opportunities, and each other. At Ednovate, we don’t just promise college acceptance—we promise long-term success. It’s inspiring to see how much we can achieve together.”
By fostering connections among alumni, Laurie is building a movement where students not only achieve their dreams but also support their peers and uplift their communities.
Her role reflects Ednovate’s commitment to innovation. Laurie and her team have developed forward-thinking initiatives like virtual networking platforms, alumni mentorship programs, and career readiness events that extend Ednovate’s support beyond the classroom. These programs ensure that every graduate remains part of a thriving community, helping them to navigate challenges and seize opportunities.
“It’s incredibly fulfilling to see the impact of this work. I’m proud to contribute to a mission that doesn’t just create success stories—it creates a ripple effect of change. When we support one student, we’re uplifting their entire family and community.”
Laurie’s story and her innovative work remind us that the journey to Positive Multigenerational Change is ongoing. Together, we rise—and together, we thrive.
Your support makes this possible. By donating to our end-of-year campaign, you’ll help us reach our $50,000 goal and continue building programs that empower alumni, support students, and transform communities.
Together, We Rise.
April Komolmis
Director of Development & External Affairs
