Asiamarie GarciaAsiamarie Garcia, a student from Tucson, AZ, was recently awarded the Nancy Kailing Memorial Scholarship by PFLAG Silver City. Majoring in social work and minoring in early childhood education, Ms. Garcia stumbled upon WNMU while still in high school.

"My counselor encouraged me to check out the social work program here at WNMU. I didn't even know where Silver City was! I'm so glad I came here. The social work program is excellent," Garcia said. "I got involved in Glam Week and interned at The Center for Gender Equity. I loved helping with the drag show and doing whatever I could to promote equality for my LGBTQ friends, family, and fellow students. I'm grateful to PFLAG for helping me finish my studies."

Nancy Kailing, whose legacy the scholarship honors, was a fierce advocate for LGBTQ rights. She served as president of PFLAG Fairbanks, Alaska and PFLAG Silver City. Founded in 1972 with the simple act of a mother publicly supporting her gay son, PFLAG is the nation's largest family and ally organization. For more information or to make a donation to the scholarship fund, call 575-590-8797.