A former farmworker and first-generation college student, Esmeralda Diera of Grandview, Wash., is Yakima Valley College’s nominee for Washington state’s Transforming Lives Award. Diera recently completed her associate in arts degree on the way to pursuing her dream of becoming a dental hygienist. Each year, the Washington State Association of College Trustees recognizes the accomplishments of students from each of the state’s community and technical colleges through the Transforming Lives Award.
Learn more about Yakima Valley College at www.yvcc.edu/.