Alma Ortiz

2021 "Pass the Torch" Scholarship Finalist

“Professor Dorio helped me see that I shouldn’t take things for face value and that I should look deeper, because there [are] so many hidden histories, stories and issues in the world.”

Professor Dorio was different to all the teachers Alma Ortiz had previously encountered. In his “Global Citizenship” class he sat with students rather than in front of them, turning their questions back on them and challenging them to develop their own perspectives. Most importantly, he encouraged them to engage with their world and created a space where they could openly explore their feelings about current events. Alma now wants to become a teacher so she can support her future students on their journeys as change advocates.

Here is Alma's story about Professor Dorio, the teacher who inspired her.

Want to hear the stories of the other nine finalists? Visit our 2021 Scholarship Finalists page.

Thinking of applying to this year's program? Learn more on our Teachers Test Prep "Pass the Torch" Teacher Scholarships page.