The University of New Mexico is becoming a hub of Truman Scholar recognition. UNM senior Jesus Sanchez, is one of 191 Truman Scholar finalists selected from this year’s pool of 709 nominations across over 285 institutions. Sanchez is scheduled to interview in March.
“The Truman Scholarship is a highly competitive award that selects students with the potential to become change agents,” Honors College Scholarship Coordinator Kiyoko Simmons said. “Jesus has demonstrated leadership and service aimed at enhancing the college experience for students by addressing basic needs studies. I am excited about Jesus advancing to the Truman Finalist Interview. Wishing him the best of luck!”
Sanchez expressed his gratitude by saying, “Words cannot describe how honored I am to be selected as a Truman finalist! I have so many people I’d like to thank, chief among them being my mentor, Dr. Sarah Dreier. I would not be studying Political Science if not for her faith in me and continuous support in my academic journey.”
Sanchez, who studies Political Science and Honors Interdisciplinary Liberal Arts (HILA), has been praised by MMUF Mentor and Political Science Professor Sarah Dreier, who said, “Jesus is as creative and compassionate as he is intelligent and engaged. I've learned a lot working with him and I am proud that he will represent UNM on the national stage as a Truman Finalist. Congratulations, Jesus.”
Sanchez's research focuses on the impact of different forms of welfare on income inequality. He plans to continue this work in an Honors College capstone project, where he will execute a statewide conference addressing food and housing insecurity on college campuses. His ultimate goal is to pursue a Ph.D. in Education with a concentration in education policy to increase the economic accessibility of higher education.
Speaking about his inspirations, Sanchez mentioned, “I’d also like to greatly thank LESC policy analyst Marit Andrews; My passion for education policy flourished from my time interning at the legislature, and that’s largely because of her guidance.”
Truman Foundation Regional Review Panels will interview the Truman finalists in March, with the hope of selecting the 2024 Truman Scholars. Sanchez's nomination follows previous UNM success in the Truman Scholarship program, with past scholars including Andrew Schumann in 2023, Abrianna Morales in 2022, and Emma Hotz in 2021.
Sanchez also expressed his gratitude towards his parents, saying, “I wouldn’t be half the person I am if not for my parents. When my parents decided they wanted to have a child, they immigrated from Mexico to the United States so that I would have opportunities they never did, this one included. They left a whole life behind because they believed in me; I hope this proves that they were right to have that faith.”
The University of New Mexico extends its support to Sanchez and wishes him success in his pursuit of becoming a Truman Scholar.
