SE Valley Times

An Arizona State University student, Yudidt Nonthe Sanchez, has been awarded the Truman Scholarship, a significant honor for undergraduates pursuing public service careers. Nonthe is studying public service and public policy with a focus on law and policy at ASU. She aims to use the scholarship funds to attend the Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law and eventually pursue a political career.

Nonthe discovered her achievement during a surprise Zoom call with ASU President Michael Crow and Provost Nancy Gonzales on April 5. Reflecting on the moment, she stated, “I think I blacked out. There’s no way that I’m being told this.”

As one of 60 recipients selected from 709 candidates nationwide, Nonthe joins an elite group recognized for their leadership potential and dedication to public service. The scholarship provides $30,000 for graduate studies alongside opportunities for leadership training and internships within the federal government.

Kyle Mox, associate dean of national scholarship advisement at ASU, emphasized the significance of the award: “For students who aspire to careers in public service, the Truman Scholarship is the biggest award there is.” He praised Nonthe as "a remarkable young woman who represents many of the best parts of the ASU Charter."

Nonthe's journey in higher education began after graduating from Westwood High School in Mesa and earning an associate degree at Mesa Community College. Her diverse experiences include learning Portuguese during a church mission in Brazil and interning at both the Smithsonian National Zoo and Natural History Museum.

During her time at Mesa Community College, she served as student body president amid pandemic restrictions. Following George Floyd's murder in 2020, she initiated a forum with local police to engage young people—a move she found impactful.

After completing her associate degree in 2021 through a drive-through ceremony, Nonthe joined ASU's Next Generation Service Corps with support from various scholarships. She continues her community involvement as part of Mesa's Human Relations Advisory Board.

With aspirations to run for office locally before aiming for mayoral candidacy in Mesa, Nonthe is committed to representing her community effectively. "I've been preparing myself for these past years to become the first Latina mayor of Mesa," she said.

Her parents' Indigenous roots—Otomi and Nahua—have played an integral role in shaping her ambitions. They have supported her educational pursuits despite challenges along the way.