Miguel Cisneros was just 12 years old when his father was killed in a workplace accident while working for the New Mexico Department of Transportation.
“My dad was my best friend – I told my dad everything,” Cisneros said. “So, it was really hard for me. It was a dramatic change in my life.”
Today, Cisneros is turning his grief into purpose. Thanks to a prestigious national scholarship given to a student whose parent suffered a workplace injury, he is beginning his journey as a member of the University of Arizona Class of 2029. He plans to major in Chemistry and Chemical Engineering and has set his sights on a career in national security and defense at Los Alamos National Laboratory.
As the 2025 recipient of Kids’ Chance of America’s Jim Hudak and Sally Silvia Scholarship, Cisneros will receive $10,000 annually toward his four-year degree to help him reach that goal.
“Because of Kids’ Chance, kids like me can go to college,” said Cisneros, who grew up in Santa Fe, New Mexico. “I think it’s really important for kids to get out there and see the world and have new experiences. If I hadn’t received this scholarship, I wouldn’t have been able to come to Arizona. It really pushes you to do better and shoot for higher goals.”
Cisneros first connected with Kids’ Chance of New Mexico, which provided him with scholarship support. When he shared his dream of attending the University of Arizona, Kids’ Chance of Arizona nominated him for the Jim Hudak and Sally Silvia Scholarship, which is awarded to one student nationwide each year.
“I am absolutely ecstatic that Miguel has been selected for the Jim Hudak and Sally Silvia Scholarship,” said Cat Kvasnicka of Kids’ Chance of Arizona. “This is a life-changing opportunity and a silver lining born from a tragic event. Miguel is a shining example of resilience and determination, and KCAZ is incredibly proud to support him on his educational journey.”
Kids’ Chance of America CEO Chris Letsos agreed.
“Miguel’s story demonstrates the importance and the impact of our mission to provide brighter futures for children who have endured the life-altering impact of a parent’s workplace injury or death,” he said. “We are honored to walk alongside him as he pursues his education and career goals.”
With this support, Cisneros said he feels both empowered and determined to honor his father’s legacy by pursuing his dreams and helping others. He hopes that sharing his story will inspire other young people who have endured similar loss.
“My advice would be to dream big,” he said, “and know that things do get better.”
