Andres Cruz of Luquillo, Puerto Rico, is a freshman at Brown University this fall.  He plans to concentrate in commerce, organization and entrepreneurship and to earn a Master’s degree before seeking work with an independent record label. In addition to his musical interests, Andres also enjoys long boarding, both for the adrenaline rush and the camaraderie among skaters.

Andres looks up to his father and says, “My Dad’s position as the Forest Supervisor of El Yunque National Forest has instilled in me leadership and charity. From his dedicated 30 years of public service, I learned the importance of helping others. He has been able to conserve the rain forest and create a positive bridge between the public and the federal government on my island.”

Andres is the 2011 David O. “Doc” and Marion M. Cooke Memorial Scholarship award winner.  Learn more about the award here.