Fluvia Mendez is the Fall 2019 Monte Ahuja College of Business Valedictorian. On Wednesday, November 13th, 2019, she was presented with recognition from the College at a faculty meeting in BU 118. An outstanding student, the Marketing major has been named to either the President's List or the Dean's List for every semester she has been at CSU.

A first generation college student, Fluvia moved from Guatemala to the U.S. and at first did not think that she would be able to afford college. She was encouraged when several organizations provided her with scholarships to help her realize her dreams.

Fluvia began her career at CSU as an Education major, thinking that this would be the best way that she could help and give back to the Hispanic community and to others coming to the U.S. to become successful. She realized that she could help more individuals gaining business skills and helping to communicate the mission of non-profit organizations assisting the Hispanic community. With the combination of working and scholarships, Fluvia has been able to fund her education and also help to pay for both of her brothers to go to college.

While at CSU, she was a member of the Campus Activities Board, a member of Viking Expeditions, Young Life at CSU, Campus Bible Fellowship and the National Society of Leadership and Success. Fluvia is very active in Esperanza, serving as an Alumni Board Member and volunteering in their Back to School and Leading Leaders Programs. As a member of these organizations, Fluvia has represented and promoted Cleveland State and the Ahuja College of Business, serving as a mentor to other students and an excellent role model for fellow classmates.

"Comitted to her desire to give back and help others succeed, Fluvia has been able to accomplish a great deal in her four years here at CSU," said Dr. Heidi Meier, Associate Dean for Academic Programs and Student Affairs, Chair and Professor of Accounting. "Fluvia is an shining example that Cleveland State is a great choice for an excellent education providing a variety of opportunities for all students. We know that she will continue to be a shining example for all of us."

Pictured above, Fluvia with her family.