Georgia Rotary Student Program GRSP

🌎Student Spotlight: From the Salt Flats to Sustainability: Meet Isabella Velasquez!

Isabella Velasquez is class of 2025-2026 GRSP scholar representing Bolivia at Georgia Gwinnett College. Pursuing a degree in Environmental Science, Isabella’s academic journey is fueled by a deep-seated passion for sustainability and the natural wonders of her homeland. She often shares the marvels of Bolivia with her new community, such as the breathtaking Salar de Uyuni, explaining how the world’s largest salt flat transforms into a massive, shimmering mirror during the rainy season. This connection to the earth was forged during her years with the Grupo Scout Santa Ana, where the values of leadership and environmental stewardship first inspired her to protect our global ecosystem. As a representative of the Georgia Rotary Student Program, Isabella goes far beyond her studies to foster "Peace Through Understanding" by bridging the gap between South American traditions and Georgia life. Whether she is educating others on the unique geography of the Andes or sharing the service-oriented values she learned as a scout, she serves as a vital link in our international community.

We extend our deepest thanks to the Rotary Club of Gwinnett County for sponsoring Isabella and providing her with this platform to grow as a global leader. Her presence on campus is a testament to the power of cross-cultural exchange and the bright future of environmental advocacy.

🥇Student Spotlight: Racing Toward Peace: Meet Ryheem Mighten of Jamaica!

Ryheem Mighten is a Class of 2025-2026 Georgia Rotary Student Program scholar from Jamaica who is making history at LaGrange College. This year, Ryheem had the unique opportunity to be part of the college’s first-ever track and field program, and he has already proven to be a cornerstone of the team’s success. His incredible speed and dedication led him to be named the voted the Collegiate Conference of the South (CCS) Rookie of the Year after an incredible season which included winning the men's 200-meter and 400-meter dash events at the CCS Championships the weekend prior! Whether he is sprinting toward a new personal record or engaging with his peers on campus, Ryheem’s energetic spirit and Caribbean warmth are helping to build a more connected and vibrant community in LaGrange.

We would like to extend our sincere gratitude to the LaGrange Rotary Club for their sponsorship of Ryheem this year. Your support has given this talented student-athlete the platform to excel both on the track and in the classroom, fostering the cross-cultural understanding that is at the heart of the GRSP mission. We are so proud to have Ryheem representing Jamaica and the GRSP spirit at LaGrange College.