Tania M. Vergara-Gongora, a first-generation junior from Louisville, embodies the power of a Bellarmine education and scholarship support. Majoring in marketing with minors in marketing communications and broadcasting, her success is built on her parents’ desire for a safer future—leaving Mexico for their children’s opportunities—and the unwavering support of the Bellarmine community.
Initially drawn to the university’s strong Catholic identity, Tania has immersed herself in a wealth of activities.
“The ‘Bellarmine community’ is not an exaggeration; it is a literal truth,” Tania said. She emphasizes that the belonging and breadth of opportunity she found on campus are key to her growth as a student and young adult.
“Without the scholarships I’ve been so fortunate to receive, I would probably not be at Bellarmine, maybe not even be in a Catholic or faith-driven college at all,” she said. “They have truly allowed me to really immerse myself in everything Bellarmine has to offer and not really have to worry about the financial aspect.”
Tania participates in academic activities like the Honors Program and Pioneer Scholars, and she’s highly engaged with the Hispanic Organization and Latino Alliance (HOLA), enriching and elevating the experiences of Latin students. Her gratitude for her own opportunities motivates her to serve as a Global Ambassador to connect fellow students
with the study abroad program, which she found to be a transformative experience.
Tania also cherishes the personal connection with scholarship donors. “They didn’t just provide financial support. They gave me confidence, hope, and responsibility,” she said.
“Donors are dream makers, life changers, and the reason stories like mine are possible.”
Tania’s journey proves that investing in scholarships creates a profound “ripple effect” for future leaders. Post-graduation, she hopes to use her business degree to work in communications for a Catholic organization, or potentially join her father’s family business, carrying forward the legacy of opportunity, or maybe both, as she further discovers and realizes her own potential.