Student wins Luminari Award

Mariana Ramirez

Fox Chapel Area High School junior Mariana Ramirez has been named one of two winners of the 2025 Luminari Award. As a 2025 Luminari Award Scholar, Mariana will receive a scholarship, worth more than $1,200, to attend Luminari’s “I Want to be an Ambassador!” camp June 10-18 in Pittsburgh and Washington, D.C. The camp will welcome 20 students, two from the Pittsburgh area, and will allow participants to engage with diplomats, visit embassies and tackle real-world challenges – all while learning innovative strategies to foster mutual respect and collaboration.

Luminari Award Scholars are selected based on an annual essay competition that challenges teens in grades 7-11 to explore what diplomacy means to them. This year’s essay competition highlighted the importance diplomacy plays in our daily lives, and, according to Luminari, the winners truly embody this spirit.

“Every successful interaction, whether in government or daily life, starts with diplomacy,” said Hilda Pang Fu, Luminari president and founder. “Our campers learn vital skills like effective communication and problem-solving, empowering them to bring positive change to their families, schools and communities.”

Mariana’s essay reflected on navigating cultural differences with empathy and understanding. “This program will give me the opportunity to gain new skills, expand my knowledge and show that immigrants can succeed,” shared Mariana. As a Colombian immigrant, she passionately described her journey to challenge stereotypes and inspire others to pursue their dreams. Mariana plans to use these lessons to grow as a leader and pursue a career in nursing. With a deep appreciation for diverse perspectives, she hopes to use diplomacy to build connections, foster mutual respect and honor her parents’ sacrifices.

Mariana is already making a positive impact at Fox Chapel Area High School, according to her teachers.

“Mariana approaches every challenge with perseverance, supports her peers with genuine compassion and consistently puts in the effort to achieve her best,” said English as a Second Language teacher Kathy Rombach. “Her dedication and positive attitude make her a joy to teach and an inspiration to those around her.”

Science teacher Jennell Wolfe said, “Mari’s genuine desire to learn, confidence and leadership qualities have earned her this well-deserved award. Her dedication and resilience throughout high school have truly set her apart.”

“Mariana is a dedicated student who consistently demonstrates a strong work ethic and a positive attitude,” said math teacher Gail Hetu. “Her commitment goes beyond simply completing assignments – she shows a genuine drive to understand the concepts behind the math. Her determination and thoughtful approach to learning make her a standout in the classroom.”

“The future of diplomacy starts here,” said Debbie Casini Klein, I Want to be an Ambassador! director. “These teens are not just learning skills; they are becoming ambassadors of respect and change.”

Luminari is a Pittsburgh-based nonprofit organization founded in 2009 to foster activities that broaden minds, inspire innovations and promote community engagement.