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CSU Channel Islands
Trustee Emeritus Kenneth Fong Scholar
The first word Patricio Ruano associated with college was “impossible.” As a first-generation student striving to avoid failing out of high school, he believed he wasn’t cut out for college. Conflicts at home, financial hardships and societal barriers made higher education seem unattainable. But through the support of his parents, siblings and mentors, Patricio arrived at CSU Channel Islands and set a plan
to give back.
A double major in biology and global studies, Patricio works to ensure that all students have equitable access to education. He reaches out to local high schools, assists students in gateway college classes and immerses visiting K-8 students in the worlds of college and science.
Patricio is active in several campus organizations focused on equity, including the Educational Opportunity Program and Queer Student Alliance. He plans to apply soon to medical degree and doctoral programs and work to improve access to education and health care for people across the U.S. and abroad.