Brush in hand, Kevin C. is leaving a message on the wall outside Moisés E. Molina High School’s library.
Earlier this school year, he began working on a mural, reflecting a sense of hope and identity.
“I wanted to give back to my community and giving them hope was the best way to do it,” he said.
Through the mural, which is now complete, Kevin hopes his classmates see themselves and are encouraged to embrace who they are.
“Students should feel proud of who they are and their heritage,” he said.
The mural came together the same way Kevin’s high school experience did; piece by piece and shaped by small, meaningful moments.
Whether studying in the library, presenting a project or spending time with friends on field trips, he believes those everyday experiences defined his journey.
“My favorite memories are all the small moments that go unnoticed,” he said. “That sense of belonging helped me find my place and my community here.”
Arriving from Mexico as a freshman, Kevin said finding that connection made all the difference, and it’s something he creates for others.
Now a senior, he is president of Molina’s Academic Success Program and a member of the Journeys Program, dedicating much of his time to helping fellow students — just as Molina supported him.
“ASP helped me with the college application process,” he said. “It gives you a sense of clarity if you don’t know what to do after high school.”
That path led him to the University of Michigan, where he will attend on scholarship to study business administration.
Though he plans to become an entrepreneur, Kevin’s creative side remains an important part of who he is. He discovered a talent for painting when he was nine and began taking art classes at Molina. Now, he enters his work into contests and sells it on Etsy.
As he prepares to graduate in just a few short weeks, Kevin hopes his legacy at Molina will be rooted in resilience, opportunity and empathy.
“I want to leave students with empathy and an urge to help others,” he said. “I want to leave people knowing, no matter where they come from, they can achieve big things.”
