OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. (April 3, 2023) – Oklahoma City Community College (OCCC) was named the first recipient of the Lisa Zimmaro URMIA Internship Grant. The grant, established by the University Risk Management and Insurance Association (URMIA) in memory of the late Lisa Zimmaro, highlights OCCC’s dedication to advancing experiential learning in higher education. As part of this initiative, student Gabriela “Gaby” Ortiz Aguinaga has been awarded the Risk Management Internship.

Gaby’s reflections and OCCC experience

Navigating through college isn’t always easy, especially if you’re the first in your family to do it. From the college application process to registering for the right courses, there are numerous hurdles to overcome.

As a first-generation college student and trailblazer in her family, Gaby faced the daunting task of completing higher education without a road map. Starting her first semester, the absence of a successful study plan left her feeling demotivated and uncertain about her academic future. However, Gaby’s story took a positive turn when she discovered OCCC’s Students Connecting with Mentors for Success (SCMS) program. SCMS is dedicated to enhancing academic achievement, retention and graduation rates, while also preparing students for successful entry into the workforce or transfer to a four-year academic institution.

In the program, Gaby found more than just guidance – she found a lifeline.

“Having mentors who believe in my potential and understand the unique challenges I faced has been instrumental in my success,” she said.

Dr. Bryon Dickens, OCCC director of SCMS, said, “Seeing SCMS students succeed is one of the most gratifying and humbling aspects of the program. I work with extraordinary students every day, and many of them do not realize how exceptional they are.”

Thanks to the support provided by SCMS, Gaby approached each challenge with optimism and determination, confidently taking charge of her own success.

Gaby also credits her professors for inspiring her to surpass her own expectations and continuously strive for improvement. Among them is her favorite professor, Dr. Shanna Padgham, department chair of OCCC’s political science program. Gaby admires Dr. Padgham’s professionalism and confidence and aspires to apply those qualities in her own life.

“When I first took Dr. Padgham’s class in public administration, I saw how confident and knowledgeable she was, and I wanted to imitate that kind of energy.”

Reflecting on Gaby’s progress, Dr. Padgham shared, “Gaby has grown tremendously. I’ve been continually impressed by her work ethic. She is a proactive student and has a heart for advocating for others. I am looking forward to the days when she tells me about her progress. I wish her the very best.”

Looking toward the future

As the first recipient of the Lisa Zimmaro URMIA Internship award, Gaby is eager to broaden her skill set and learn ways to help support OCCC’s Risk Management team.

“It’s been a wonderful experience. If this was a four-year college, I would have gladly stayed. I am incredibly grateful for everyone at OCCC who played a role in my college experience,” said Gaby.

Gaby will graduate in May with an A.A. in Political Science/Pre-law. After graduation, she plans to continue her studies and become a lawyer after completing her bachelor’s degree.

Dickens, who noted Gaby was already an outstanding student before joining the program, said, “Her future is bright, and she will definitely make an indelible mark on those who cross her path.”

Gaby’s story is a reminder that with determination and the right support, anyone can succeed. OCCC proudly celebrates students like Gaby, who inspire others to reach for their dreams.

About Lisa Zimmaro URMIA Internship Grant

The Lisa Zimmaro URMIA Internship Grant is funded through the generosity of a URMIA member donor and managed by Spencer Education. This grant supports internships at member institutions and was recently named in honor of Lisa Zimmaro, a former URMIA member known for her contributions to risk management.

Zimmaro, who tragically lost her battle with cancer in 2021, served two terms on URMIA’s Board of Directors and held key risk management roles at Princeton University and Temple University.

For more information about the Lisa Zimmaro URMIA Internship Grant, visit URMIA’s website.