UCR

I had the pleasure of attending the CUC (Citizen's University Committee) meeting last night where they honored 3 groups of individuals -- all very deserving -- PLUS it was just a nice evening.   For me, probably the MOST inspiring was the young lady that recently graduated from UCR and is now heading off to graduate school (UCR). 

Her story helps us remember what this is all about and clearly she is also highly motivated and talented.  Her name is Pricila Lara -- from Hemet.  While at UCR she joined the Chamber group -- as a Saxophone player!!?  Most recently she is established the Hemet Youth Orchestra and is it's conductor (on the way to being conductor for the LA Phil?).  Pricila has a series of firsts in her family (which has given her great encouragement and support).  She was the first in the family to graduate from college, high school, and middle school.

The other UCR honorees (i.e., Francis and Jane Carney, Tim White) were certainly deserving as well, but Pricila reminds us of the students and miracles that happen before our eyes every day.