In a heartfelt moment during the East Tennessee State University (ETSU) Board of Trustees meeting, Dr. Perez shared a personal journey that underscored the transformative power of education and the vital role of the Upward Bound program. As he recounted his experience as a first-generation college student, the room was filled with a sense of inspiration and hope.

Dr. Perez began by reflecting on his initial uncertainty about college, recalling how he filled out his application for the Upward Bound program in 1995. "At the time, I thought, well, this is cool. I'm in the Upward Bound program," he said, unaware of how significantly it would shape his future. The program, designed to support students from disadvantaged backgrounds, provided him with essential exposure to college life and academic rigor that his family had not experienced.

Throughout his high school years, the Upward Bound program encouraged Dr. Perez to challenge himself academically, pushing him to take college preparatory classes and engage in dual enrollment. He emphasized the importance of these experiences, stating, "They showed me that college was something that I could achieve." This encouragement was pivotal, as it helped him envision a future where he could be the first in his family to earn a college degree.

One of the highlights of his journey was the summer residential program, where he discovered his passion for web design. Initially uncertain about his career path, Dr. Perez found clarity through hands-on experiences that allowed him to explore various fields. "I ended up falling in love with web design," he shared, a revelation that ultimately led him to pursue a degree in computer science at ETSU.

Dr. Perez's story is a testament to the impact of educational programs like Upward Bound, which aim to improve the quality of life for students in the region. He credited the dedication of educators and mentors, particularly Dr. Ronnie Gross, for their unwavering support. "If it were not for their hard work, I would not be standing here today," he remarked, highlighting the collaborative effort that goes into fostering student success.

As the meeting progressed, Dr. Nolan, ETSU's president, took the floor to provide updates on the university's initiatives, reinforcing the institution's commitment to enhancing educational opportunities for all students. The discussions during the meeting not only celebrated individual achievements but also emphasized the collective responsibility of the university community to uplift and empower future generations.

In closing, Dr. Perez's narrative resonated deeply, reminding everyone present of the profound difference that education can make in a person's life. His journey from uncertainty to success serves as an inspiring reminder of the potential that lies within every student, especially those who may not have a clear path laid out before them. As ETSU continues to champion programs that support students, the hope is that many more will follow in his footsteps, transforming their lives through education.