Countdown to Commencement 2023: Mariangelis Gonzalez

Biology and public health double major and Spanish for health/global health minor Mariangelis Gonzalez is the next member of the Class of 2023 to be featured in the “Countdown to Commencement” series. Gonzalez was nominated by Dr. Rick DeJesus-Rueff, academic director of the First-Generation Scholars Program; Emily Colliss, assistant director of the Institute for Civic and Community Engagement; and Gabe Iturbides, TRIO Student Support Services program director.

The natural relationship of students at Fisher is for underclass students to find a senior mentor to provide advice and a sense of encouragement as they enter upper-level courses and pre-professional programs who then take a student or group of students under their wing guiding them to success. As a senior this year, Gonzalez has been an inspiration to students across campus. 

Her commitment to service and helping others makes Gonzalez a strong advocate and supporter of fellow First-Generation Scholars, students in the Honors Program, TRIO-SSS participants, and more. Her leadership reaches beyond the programs in which she is involved as she is committed to joining clubs and organizations that are larger than herself. 

“With a constant smile and willingness to work hard, Mariangelis has been an inspiration on campus. Her sincerity and commitment to the community remind me of the importance of what we do as faculty for the students,” said DeJesus-Rueff. 

Gonzalez currently serves as vice president of the TriBeta Biological Honor Society, with a lifetime membership in an organization committed to improving student involvement and understanding of biological research and pedagogy. Other campus involvement includes her work as a student ambassador giving tours to prospective students and families. She has also been a part of the Orientation Team for the past few years volunteering to help new students become more acquainted and adjusted to life on campus. This year, she is a peer mentor for the first-year seminar – an extension of the role played by Orientation leaders during move-in weekend. 

“When I think of my four years here at Fisher, the words that come to mind are endless opportunities. I've seen myself grow in many ways personally and professionally because of the opportunities I have had in academics, research, community service, work-study, and relationships built with my professors, staff, peers, and community. I am grateful to be the first in my family to have achieved higher education and grateful for the experiences Fisher and the Fisher family gave me to become a well-rounded individual ready for a new beginning,” said Gonzalez. 

DeJesus-Rueff predicts that Gonzalez will be a thoughtful and committed physician who will benefit the community in which she serves. Colliss and Iturbides also shared that Gonzalez beams positive energy and spirit and will remember her kindness.