Dino T. Barajas ’90

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While achieving a remarkable academic record, Dino Barajas has posted exemplary accomplishments in University and community service. His philanthropic activity shows a concern for social values and a degree of social consciousness uncommon in a person of his years.

Barajas’ service has focused largely on the recruitment and retention of students from underrepresented groups. He is active with the UCLA Academic Advancement Program, a tutorial service for minority students, having been chosen not only for his academic qualifications, but he was also picked for his sensitivity and interpersonal skills. As a member of MEChA, a Hispanic student organization, Barajas demonstrated considerable leadership by organizing formal efforts to keep young people from dropping out of college. He has also volunteered with the Central American Refugee Sanctuary Organization and Special Olympics.

Because of family circumstances, Barajas has had to work to help support himself much of his life, but with the staunch support of his mother, he has managed to meet all challenges. He maintains superior grades in one of the most demanding undergraduate majors, communication studies, and he was named an Alumni Association Distinguished Scholar for his achievements. Planning to attend law school, Barajas, with his rare combination of intellect and character, is already a credit to UCLA, as he will be to the legal profession.