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Giving
6 Students Who Are Committed to Making a Difference
Meet USF’s 2025 Read Scholars
At the beginning of the calendar year, Bay Area philanthropist Peter Read ’67 continued his legacy of scholarship giving at USF by generously pledging to support a new cohort of Read Scholars. Fast-forward to today, and a group of bright, driven School of Nursing and Health Professions students has embarked upon (or continued along) their journey to become healthcare professionals — in part thanks to scholarship support.
Among them is a bassist, a wrestler, and a teacher. They are volunteers, swimmers, activists, and more. Learn why they chose nursing, what their scholarships mean for their lives and studies, and what they do for fun:
Nataly Luna ’29
“My motivation comes from my desire to help people in need and to inspire others to pursue careers in healthcare. When I was younger, I spent time in the hospital, and one nurse made a lasting impact on me through her kindness and care. That experience showed me how powerful compassion can be, and I hope to one day have that same positive effect on my future patients.
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Daisy Huerta ’28
“I grew up with a single mom who supported my sister and I. When I got accepted to USF, I didn't want to say no. After a while, I convinced my mom to let me go into debt to be a part of USF's incredible nursing program, and not long after my acceptance, I was selected to receive the Read Scholarship. My mother and I were overjoyed and extremely grateful for the opportunity.
“I am from San Bruno, California, and my favorite activities include cross country, water polo, swim, musicals, choir, baking, cooking, roller skating, ukulele, and piano.
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Sifora Kahsay ’29
“I was born and raised in Eritrea and came to the United States when I was 15. In high school, I was involved in the 2024 mayoral campaign, served as a Peer Mental Health Educator, and was a member of the varsity wrestling team. I currently give my time to the Red Cross, Alameda Food Bank, Uhuru Pies. I’m an art enthusiast, and one of the most meaningful parts of my life is serving as a teacher and choir singer at my Eritrean Orthodox church. I teach children, and it’s something I truly love and find purpose in.”
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Hala Abdelfattah ’29
“I come from a low-income, first-generation family and when I initially committed to USF, the cost was the largest concern. When I got accepted as a Read Scholar, it solidified my decision to attend USF. Since being here, I have received incredible support from Peter Read, Stacey Kohut [Director of Undergraduate Student Services], and many other professors and students. I could not be more grateful for the support and guidance, especially through this new transition in life.”
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Alyssa Nguyen ’25
“My motivation to study nursing originated when I assisted in translating for my grandfather in a medical setting. Seeing the gaps between languages showed me that many patients aren’t advocated for — and may be missing critical parts of their care that they are unaware of. Thus, I took a step toward bringing change to others' lives. Hopefully I can contribute towards a future with more diverse and inclusive healthcare.
“I am from San Jose, California and my favorite place to walk and hang out with friends is Golden Gate Park.”
Sherry Lai ’29
“I was born and raised in Vietnam for 15 years, and just moved to the U.S. about three years ago. This scholarship is like a lifesaver because it has helped to ease the financial stress on my family as I begin college. Due to this financial support, I can focus more on my studies and work that will help me become a nurse. I truly appreciate the opportunity.”
Learn more about how you can support scholarships and programs at one of the top nursing schools in the country.
