The Congressional Hispanic Leadership Institute’s (CHLI) Alumni Association is excited to announce the recipients of the 2024 Wendy Martinez Scholarship. The scholarship, which is comprised of three $500 awards, is named after the late Wendy Martinez, an invaluable member of both CHLI and the CHLI Alumni Association.
In 2005, Wendy participated in CHLI’s internship program, where she interned for CHLI Vice-Chairman, Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart (R-FL). She graduated from Florida Atlantic University in 2006 and received her Master’s in Latin American studies at Georgetown University in 2012. Wendy went on to work at the Nicaraguan Embassy and the Inter-American Development Bank. At the time of her tragic death, she was working her dream job as Chief of Staff for FiscalNote.
After a rigorous selection process, it is with great pride that the CHLI Alumni Association introduces the three exceptional individuals who embody the spirit and values that Wendy Martinez represented throughout her remarkable life and career. Each winner has demonstrated outstanding commitment to their education, community, and the missions of both CHLI and the CHLI Alumni Association.
Each of these winners will receive a $500 award in recognition of their achievements and their potential to make significant contributions to their communities and beyond. It is our hope that this scholarship will aid them in their continued pursuit of excellence and service.
Pictured: Marcelo Boffelli, Wendy Martinez Scholarship Winner
Marcelo Boffelli is a dedicated Senior Program Associate at the International Republican Institute, focusing on empowering democratic processes in Latin America and the Caribbean. Originally from Nicaragua, Marcelo moved to Miami, Florida, an experience that profoundly shaped his perspective and fueled his commitment to serving the Latino community.
He completed a double major in Political Science and International Relations from Florida International University, where he honed his understanding of global affairs and public policy. Marcelo is now pursuing a Master of Arts in Public Administration and Policy (MPAP) at American University to further his expertise in public service.
Marcelo’s passion for public service began in 2012 when he interned for former Congresswoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen. During this time, he was inspired by her energy and unwavering dedication to her constituents in Florida. With a strong belief in civic engagement and community empowerment, Marcelo continues to work towards fostering positive change and advocating for the needs of the Latino community and beyond.
Pictured: Alicia Marrero-Riera, Wendy Martinez Scholarship Winner
Alicia Marrero-Riera is a Venezuelan-American raised in Weston, Florida, is a second-year student at Duke University School of Law. She earned her bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of Florida, where she developed a strong commitment to legal accessibility. During her time at UF, Alicia served as a student ambassador for the Office of Hispanic and Latino Student Engagement, writing articles to share legal and economic resources with DACA recipients.
Now active in Duke’s Latin American Law Student Association, Alicia continues to support the Latino community. Additionally, her experience as a CHLI Law Fellow at Becker & Poliakoff, under the mentorship of Omar Franco, has significantly shaped her commitment to advocacy. Conducting legal research on unprecedented cases, she observed firsthand Becker’s lobbyists working across ideological divides to best serve their clients. This experience reinforced her belief in the transformative power of communication and collaboration, inspiring her to use her legal skills to pursue meaningful change.
Pictured: Amelia Raudales, Wendy Martinez Scholarship Winner
Amelia Raudales is a first year law student at the Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law with a Bachelor’s degree in International Relations from Florida International University. Over the years, Amelia has worked toward her goal of becoming an attorney through internships with CHLI, Rock the Vote, CHCI, RAINN, and other public interest organizations. She hopes to give back to her Latino community through public policy and legal work. CHLI is helping her realize this dream through its generous scholarship fund.
The CHLI Alumni Association extends our deepest gratitude to all applicants for sharing their inspiring stories and to our donors for making the Wendy Martinez Scholarship possible. We look forward to continuing to honor Wendy’s legacy by supporting the next generation of leaders.
Congratulations to Marcelo, Alicia, and Amelia!