Northern Arizona University Foundation, in partnership with Univision Arizona, announces that first-generation student Itzel Perez Lillos, ’30, from Mesa, Arizona’s Dobson High School, is the second recipient of the “Tu Futuro” (“Your Future”) scholarship program. Launched in 2024, the “Tu Futuro” scholarship program is part of Univision Arizona’s Contigo community empowerment initiative, covering the total cost of tuition and lodging for an undergraduate student at NAU for four years.
During a reception at Univision Arizona studios on May 11, 2026, Perez Lillos was announced as the scholarship awardee after being selected as a finalist based on an interview and a 250-word essay describing the impact a college degree would have on her future and local community. Nearly 500 students applied for the “Tu Futuro” scholarship—an increase of 100 applicants from 2025—and 23 were selected as finalists from a review committee.
A standout essay
Perez Lillos’ essay stood out from fellow applicants because of her passion for breaking barriers for her family and giving a voice to those often left unheard. She shared that she has had to translate for her parents, and that experience has shaped her into someone who is resilient, independent, and ready to advocate for others.
Enrolled in NAU’s College of Health and Human Services, she plans to study dental hygiene and has already completed over 100 internship hours in dental offices in Phoenix. It was during her time in the dental assistant program that she became passionate about healthcare and eager to pursue it as a career.
“The Tu Futuro scholarship means I can chase my dreams at NAU without the heavy burden of debt holding me back,” said Perez Lillos. “It’s a chance to make my family proud and prove that my hard work and Hispanic heritage are powerful assets for my future. This support isn’t just about the money, but it’s a door opening to a career where I can lead and give back to my community.”
Creating a cohort
The reception, which included attendees from Univision Arizona and NAU, celebrated Perez Lillos and past scholarship recipient Dayana Amaya, ’29, reinforcing a collaborative partnership between both organizations and their commitment to student success.
“TelevisaUnivision is dedicated to education and deeply invested in the success of students,” said Mark Masepohl, senior vice president of content strategy and operations. “Education serves as the foundation for future progress, acting as a catalyst for community resilience and individual empowerment. We take pride in our partnership with Northern Arizona University and extend our congratulations to this year’s recipient for her commitment to pursuing higher education through the Univision Contigo ‘Tu Futuro’ scholarship.”
Read more stories of impact from donors like Univision Arizona at elevate.foundationnau.org. To learn more about Univision Arizona, visit UnivisionArizona.com.
“The Tu Futuro scholarship means I can chase my dreams at NAU without the heavy burden of debt holding me back… This support isn’t just about the money, but it’s a door opening to a career where I can lead and give back to my community.”
Itzel Perez Lillos, ’30
