Glenda Lozano-Licona was a passionate volunteer and leader during her time at Ferndale High School. The recently graduated student ran the school’s food drive for the past two years, volunteered at local elementary schools, and was involved in both student leadership and the Latinx-focused MEChA Club at FHS.

In her role overseeing the FHS food drive, Lozano-Licona kept track of how much food was collected and was in charge of communicating with her fellow students and leading them as a team, she said. After graduation, she still intends to continue volunteering at food banks and elementary schools.

Lozano-Licona said the most influential people in her life are her parents.

“Being raised by two hard-working, compassionate, and honest people is something I will always be grateful for,” she said. “They have taught me to listen, respect and be kind to those around me – not just by telling me, but by demonstrating it.”

Lozano-Licona said she hopes that Ferndale can continue to showcase the many cultures that reside in the city.

“When younger generations see representation within their community, it allows them to feel the extra support, and they maybe will be able to do the same and support their community as well,” she said.

Now a FHS graduate, Lozano-Licona plans to stay in Washington for college to pursue a bachelor’s degree in business administration, with a minor in marketing. Before this year, she completed the Alberts Summer Business Institute program at Seattle University.

Applying for that pre-college program and leaving Ferndale to continue her education is something Lozano-Licona said she’s proud of herself for accomplishing.

“Being a first-generation student has been quite challenging, but I have worked hard so I can encourage my younger cousins to follow their dreams,” she said.