Lieutenant Robert Merton Rawlins Merit Award Recipient

Juan is junior pursuing a bachelor’s degree in exercise physiology as well as a minor in psychology. Juan is currently an instructional student assistant for the Department of Kinesiology, where he assists in lectures, research projects, and grading. Even as an undergraduate in his second year, Juan was recently recruited by his nominator to co-author a research paper on the study of minority stress in sports after he displayed a genuine passion and talent for research in his classes. Through his research involvement and class contributions, Juan has been an integral influence in understanding minority stress in sports among campus faculty, proven by his leadership in research discussions and meetings about the topic.

Additionally, Juan works as a student assistant for the Office of Student Conduct, Rights, and Responsibilities, and also as a student assistant for KIDS: PLAY, where he assists children with disabilities to enhance their motor skills and self-esteem through physical and social activities. Outside of his on-campus involvements, Juan is a member of the National Society of Leadership and Success and is actively involved in events and leadership development programs. Juan’s nominator, Sae-Mi Lee, stated: “Mr. Lombera is a dedicated student who was always prepared for class, offered thoughtful insights, and listened carefully to his peers . . . His ability to initiate ways to further apply and extend his learning experiences demonstrates his ability to actively pursue success in any chosen capacity.”