San Juan, Puerto Rico — [May 4, 2026] – The Puerto Rico Science, Technology and Research Trust (PRSTRT), through its STEM & Workforce Development Program and in collaboration with the Azmat A. Assur Foundation, announced the second edition of the Azmat A. Assur Award for Future STEM Scholars, reaffirming its commitment to developing young talent in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) in Puerto Rico.
Following the success of its first edition in 2025, the initiative continues to recognize outstanding public education system students who aspire to pursue university studies in STEM areas at higher education institutions in Puerto Rico.
In this second cohort, four scholarships of $20,000 each were awarded, intended to support the university studies of the selected students over a four-year period. In addition to financial support, the scholarship recipients will integrate into an emerging community of STEM leaders committed to the country's development.
Out of a total of 166 applicant students, four outstanding students were selected for their academic excellence, leadership, and community commitment:
- Alsibiadisse Segarra Meléndez, from Benjamín Harrison Vocational High School in Cayey, who will begin a bachelor's degree in Biology at the University of Puerto Rico, Ponce Campus
- Dariel Díaz Rodríguez from Gerardo Sellés Solá Specialized Technology School and a native of Caguas, who will pursue Computer Engineering at the University of Puerto Rico, Mayagüez Campus.
- Roselymar Rivera Fontánez from Anita Otero Hernández Specialized School of Fine Arts in Humacao, who will study Physics with a concentration in Electronics at the University of Puerto Rico, Humacao Campus.
- Yadiel Morales Frontane from Josefina León Zayas Specialized School of Mathematics and Sports in Jayuya, who will study Biomedical Engineering at the Polytechnic University of Puerto Rico.
For the students, the recognition represents a significant achievement in their academic journey. “During my presentation, I felt a lot of emotion, I even cried because it is a great source of pride for me to be here. I never imagined winning such a prestigious award as this," expressed Alsibiadisse Segarra.
For his part, Dariel Díaz Rodríguez highlighted the value of the opportunities provided by the initiative. “I am immensely grateful to the Azmat A. Assur Foundation for the opportunity they have given me to connect with people from the campus where I want to study, the University of Puerto Rico in Mayagüez, which truly opens the doors to many opportunities, many new experiences."
“This second edition consolidates our commitment to identify, support, and make visible the exceptional talent that exists in our public schools. We bet on these young people as agents of change who will contribute to the economic and social development of Puerto Rico through science and innovation. This aligns with the Trust's mission to invest in and develop the necessary capabilities to advance the country's economy,” expressed engineer Lucy Crespo, chief executive officer of the Trust.
The application process was aimed at twelfth-grade public system students who met criteria for academic excellence, leadership, community commitment, and an interest in developing a STEM career in Puerto Rico. The selection included evaluation of applications, essays, and interviews with the finalists.
“From the STEM Education & Workforce Development program, we work to create clear and sustainable pathways for the country's young talent. This award not only recognizes academic excellence but also accompanies students during a decisive stage of their education, helping them envision a professional future in STEM from Puerto Rico,” noted engineer Luis Nieves, director of the Trust’s STEM Education & Workforce Development program.
“The continuity of this award allows us to strengthen a culture of aspiration and achievement in STEM. Beyond the financial incentive, we seek for students to develop an identity as scientists, engineers, and leaders, and to envision their professional future in Puerto Rico,” stated Dr. Frances Zenón, associate director of the Trust’s STEM Education & Workforce Development program.
For its part, the Azmat A. Assur Foundation reiterated its commitment to strengthening the island's educational and scientific ecosystem through strategic investments in education and talent development. “We firmly believe in the potential of Puerto Rico's youth. This initiative not only recognizes their excellence but also creates concrete opportunities for them to develop professionally and contribute to the future of the country,” said Mark Domzalski, director of the Azmat A. Assur Foundation.
As part of this alliance, the award is part of a broader portfolio of initiatives that include the Hexagon 3D printing studio in Ponce and the STEM+AI certification for public system educators, aimed at strengthening educational and technological capabilities in Puerto Rico.
For more information, visit: https://prsciencetrust.org/premio-azmat-assur
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