Portraits of Excellence UAHA All-Stars

Following in his father’s footsteps, UArizona alum Roger Canchola became a franchisee of McDonald’s, and he now owns six restaurants across Tucson. In addition to running the restaurants, he serves on various committees with McDonald’s, including the Hispanic Owner Operators Association. Canchola's company, Arcos de Oro, also hosts community gatherings as a way to give back.

In 2009, Sarah Miranda joined the UAHA board of directors. For six years, she chaired the special events committee. During that time, she helped plan, and later co-chair, the UAHA Portraits of Excellence scholarship dinner. She also headed the Celebration of Excellence luncheon and Homecoming Pachanga. She is now on the East Valley Cats board of directors.

Oscar Lujan’s involvement with the University of Arizona started when he was hired by the institution’s postal services department. A decade later, he began serving as the executive director of the UA Hispanic Alumni organization. Working directly with students, Lujan spearheaded the Juntos Podemos Mentoring Program in collaboration with the university’s Chicano/Hispano Student Affairs Office.

Marla Franco serves as the inaugural vice president of Hispanic Serving Institution initiatives at the University of Arizona. In 2018, Franco led efforts that resulted in the University of Arizona becoming the first four-year public university in the state of Arizona to be federally recognized as a Hispanic Serving Institution. Her dedication to higher education has earner her numerous recognitions.

Kasey Urquídez has dedicated her life to all facets of education. She has a passion for promoting access to and equity in college for all students. Currently, she is the UArizona’s vice president for enrollment management and dean of undergraduate admissions. She is also a member of many regional and national boards. Her efforts have earned her a list of impressive achievements.