From the Iron Triangle to Stanford, Salesian Paved the Way

Although acceptance to Stanford is obviously an outstanding achievement in its own right, Marc Huerta's journey goes beyond hard work in the classroom.

Marc was born 3,000 miles away from Salesian in Nicaragua. Marc immigrated with his parents to Richmond in 2003 when he was just 2 years old. He grew up in the Iron Triangle neighborhood of Richmond, an area known for its unrest. He recalls his mother encouraging him at the age of 6, saying that "someday you will attend Stanford." His love for Stanford continued to grow over the years.

While attending Helms Middle School nearby, Marc decided he wanted to attend Salesian. He believed he would find a great challenge at Salesian and it would open more opportunities for him. In keeping with its mission, Salesian accepted Marc and arranged the financial assistance he, and his single mother, required for him to experience all Salesian had to offer. This provided the chance for Marc to realize his full potential.

Marc believes Salesian altered his life's course for the better and afforded him the opportunity to work toward acceptance to his "dream" college.

"I live in the Iron Triangle of Richmond, the 'hood area of Richmond," Marc says. "I've seen things that kids shouldn't see. Because of Salesian, I feel like I've moved away from all of that and I'm on a new path in life. I'm going to be the first member of my family to go to college. I'm not sure where I would be if I had not attended Salesian."

On May 1, 2019, Marc officially accepted his invitation to attend Stanford University.

Your gifts to Salesian College Preparatory give bright, deserving students like Marc the opportunity to achieve their dreams. To discuss your scholarship gift, contact Wendy Duncan at wduncan@salesian.com or (510) 234-4433, Ext. 1414.