Ivonne, K-5 Technology Teacher, PS 307 Pioneer Academy. For the last 10 years, I have worked as a technology teacher for grades K - 5 in the New York City public schools. As an American Library Association (ALA) Spectrum Scholar I hope to meet other LIS professionals who can guide me and provide me with valuable mentorship in order to acquire the skills I need to develop literacy programs for my students and their families in the community I teach. I am excited to be part of a network of individuals who share the same passion for serving diverse communities and I look forward to the opportunity to share best practices and ideas with other Spectrum scholars which will be of much value in my pursuit for a career as a Library Media Specialist.

Serge, OER assistant at Guttman Community College CUNY. I'm Serge Rodriguez, a second year student, and one of two GSLIS students selected to the receive the ALA's Spectrum Scholarship. I was also earmarked by the Association of College and Research Libraries (ACRL) to receive support toward my pursuit of a career in academic and research libraries. I'm excited to enter into the Spectrum community of fellow emerging librarians. I look forward to participating in the leadership institute, attending the 2018 ALA conference in New Orleans, and growing under the mentorship of former scholars.

Enito, Circulation Specialist. Brooklyn Public Library. It was such an honor and privilege to be among a group of talented future librarians who wants to make a difference in their communities. At the Spectrum Institute, not only was I able to take away important information about salary negotiations and finding jobs after graduation, but I was also able to network with information professionals and speak with them about their experiences and gain valuable advice. Most importantly, I was very fortunate to have gained a family as well who I will be able to depend on and visit across this country. I truly encourage all future librarians of color to apply for this opportunity as it is truly a once in a lifetime experience.

The Spectrum Scholarship Program actively recruits and provides scholarships to American Indian/Alaska Native, Asian, Black/African American, Hispanic/Latino, Middle Eastern and North African, and/or Native Hawaiian/Other Pacific Islander students to assist them with obtaining a graduate degree and leadership positions within the profession and ALA. Awardees are selected based on their commitment to diversity, commitment to entering the library profession, demonstrated community outreach, academic ability and achievements and leadership potential. More about the program and how to apply (http://www.ala.org/advocacy/spectrum/apply).