Angelys Torres
Valparaiso University
As a sophomore, Angelys Torres is already offering crucial voice and leadership for students on our college campus and in the broader community. A Sociology major, Psychology minor, and member of the university's humanities honors college, she continually strives both to understand and to improve the world around her. She is a co-founder of the Valparaiso University Colony of Sigma Lambda Gamma, a multicultural fraternal organization that builds pride in identity and understanding across differences; a spokesperson for the Office of Multicultural Programs and Activities Coordinator for Latinos in Valparaiso for Excellence (LIVE), and a member of the Human Relations Council for the city of Valparaiso, working alongside the Mayor and city officials to create a more inclusive and welcoming community. At once intellectual and active, practical and personable, a leader and servant, Angelys is the kind of student Valpo is proud to call its own.
Personal Statement
Valparaiso University has served as my largest platform for civic engagement. Through each of my leadership positions, I have been able to work toward fighting the social injustices our community faces. In my position with the Valparaiso University Colony of Sigma Lambda Gamma, I have organized a social media campaign to bring awareness to the water crisis in Flint, Michigan. We showed solidarity with the minorities who are unable to receive clean water due to lack of identification. I have programmed events that dig deep within social issues that directly affect minorities, specifically Latinos, and not only on Valparaiso University's campus but also within society as a whole, through Latinos in Valparaiso for Excellence (LIVE). In 2015, I rallied students, staff, faculty, and community members to gather in solidarity for the students of Mizzou. Finally, I am the Valparaiso University student non-voting member for the Human Relations Council in the city of Valparaiso. In this role, I work side by side with our city officials and community members to bring social change to our city. I am the voice of my peers and share our stories to help influence changes that can enhance our environment into a more diverse and inclusive arena.
