Growing up, Emmanuel “Manny” Hernandez-Sanchez’s parents encouraged him to step outside of his comfort zone and explore new experiences. So, when the Mexico, Missouri, native transferred to the University of Missouri from a community college, he quickly immersed himself into campus life.

In the span of two years, Hernandez-Sanchez joined multiple campus organizations, including the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers, Association of Latino Professionals for America, Association of Latin American Students and Pi Sigma Epsilon. Because of his service, leadership and academic prowess, Hernandez-Sanchez was inducted into Mizzou ’39 this spring. Now, he’s graduating with a bachelor’s degree in communication, and he hopes his accomplishments inspire younger family members to continue pursuing their dreams.

Visit Show Me Mizzou for a Q&A with Hernandez-Sanchez about his Mizzou experience.