Juan Guzman

Juan Guzman, was born in Nayarit, Mexico. He had a difficult life when he was a child, working with his family just to get by each day. When he was 14 he moved with his family to California. As a young teenager, he found himself feeling like he was not fitting in in his new country. He joined a gang to find friends. His parents moved to Grand Island where he could concentrate on his education and be away from the gangs.

In high school, he started the Multicultural Club. This helped students from different cultures come together and become involved in their school and community. After high school, he attended Central Community College and the University of Nebraska at Kearney where he earned his Bachelor and Master degrees. He was appointed to be the director of the Office of Multicultural Affairs at the University of Nebraska at Kearney. He makes it possible for students to attend UNK on scholarships that he helps them earn.

Mr. Guzman has made a difference in his community and in the lives of many throughout our state. He has made it possible for many students to attend college and has helped to encourage them to become strong, successful leaders and active community members. He helped organize the Latino soccer league “Amistad” in Grand Island. He continues to remain active in several service based community organizations.