McConnell Scholar Class of 2027

About

Emilia Perez, of Louisville, Ky., is a member of the McConnell Scholar Class of 2027 at the University of Louisville. She studies political science on a global studies and international affairs track, Arabic, and Latin American and Latino studies.

Honors & Awards

  • University of Louisville Honors Scholars Program
  • CFE Reading Group Award
  • 2022 John Yarmuth Book Award
  • Minor Daniels Scholarship

Campus and Extracurricular Involvement

  • Service Chair, McConnell Scholar's Council (24-25)
  • Secretary, Latinx Student Union (24-25)
  • Center for Free Enterprise Reading Group
  • RaiseRED Dance Marathon

Internships and Work Experience 

  • Lead Project Assistant, Family Health Centers of Louisville
  • Intern, Louisville Metro’s Office of Housing and Community Development
  • DULCE Family Navigator, Family Health Centers of Louisville

Community Service 

  • Volunteer, Cardinal Cupboard Food Pantry 
  • Volunteer, La Casita Center

Favorite Books

  • They Called Us Enemy by George Takei 
  • The House of the Spirits by Isabel Allende

High School

Emilia is a graduate of Central High School, where she graduated valedictorian from the law and government magnet program. She interned at the office of Jefferson County Circuit Court Clerk and was a member of the National Honors Society and the varsity swim team. Emilia is a recipient of 2022 John Yarmuth Book Award and the Minor Daniels Scholarship. 

"To be a part of the McConnell Scholars Program is a great honor. I am so grateful to have a place in this community of bright minds. I look forward to four years of opportunities to learn, grow, and develop as a leader."