About Erick
Erick grew up in Colorado, attending both Greeley West High School and Glenwood Springs High School. His dedication and passion for learning led him to the University of Colorado Boulder, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering. After graduating, Erick worked as a roadway engineer at Kiewit, where his talent, creativity, and strong work ethic were deeply respected and valued.
Erick was a kind, selfless, and genuine soul. He lived with compassion, humility, and purpose—always showing up for the people in his life without hesitation. Whether through a warm smile, a helping hand, or a thoughtful gesture, Erick gave of himself freely and wholeheartedly.
Like many of you, Erick was the first in his family to attend and graduate from a four-year university. With that honor came many challenges—navigating unfamiliar systems, overcoming obstacles, and often facing financial hardship. Erick was also a DACA recipient, and despite the added uncertainty and barriers that came with his status, he remained determined to succeed and pave the way for others.
Creating an Impact
We have created this foundation to inspire students to live like Erick — with courage, determination, and heart. His story is not just one of personal success, but of resilience in the face of adversity and a deep commitment to lifting others as he climbed. Erick showed us that achieving your dreams doesn’t mean leaving your identity behind; it means carrying your roots with pride and using your success to create space and opportunity for others.
Through this foundation, we hope to empower first-generation students to pursue a successful and fulfilling future, just as Erick did — but also to lead with compassion, humility, and a strong sense of purpose. Our mission is to support those who are not only striving for academic and professional excellence, but who are committed to giving back and becoming leaders in their communities. In honoring Erick’s life, we aim to build a legacy of hope, service, and meaningful impact.