LaGuardia Student Chelsea Ortiz Earns Scholarship From NYC Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
LONG ISLAND CITY, NY (December 9, 2025) — Chelsea Marie Ortiz, radiologic technology major at LaGuardia Community College/CUNY was recently awarded a $2,500 scholarship by the New York City Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (NYCHCC).
Chelsea was recognized during the 20th Annual Hispanic Business Award Banquet and Scholarship Award Ceremony on December 5. The event honored successful individuals who have proven their commitment to upholding the integrity of the Hispanic Community. These individuals advocate for economic development, higher education, and promote initiatives that continue to empower the Latino community and beyond.
Chelsea, originally from Puerto Rico, currently has a 3.9 GPA. She was among the students who were selected as scholars this year. Over the past 20 years the NYCHCC has awarded more than $212K to students who attend an accredited university in the New York City area.
In her essay, Chelsea shared her passion for helping people and reasons she advocates for other Hispanics in her community.
“Growing up, I did not always know exactly what career I wanted to pursue, but I knew one thing for certain: I enjoyed working with people,” Chelsea wrote in her essay. “I have always found fulfillment in connecting with others, helping them, and making them feel understood. Over time, this passion led me to the healthcare field, where I discovered Radiologic Technology. Radiology plays a vital role in modern healthcare by enabling accurate diagnoses and guiding treatment decisions, but what inspires me most is the opportunity to support patients during a time that can often feel overwhelming and uncertain.”
Chelsea’s decision to pursue a career in health care was further motivated by the loss of a family member.
“My decision became even more personal after losing my aunt to breast cancer,” Chelsea said. “Seeing her go through countless scans and treatments made me realize how vital radiologic technologists are in a patient’s journey. They are there during some of the most difficult moments, offering both technical skill and emotional support. That experience inspired me to choose this path because I want to support others, especially members of minority communities, and make a difference in the patient experience and in the field of radiology.”
The need for diversity in the health care also motivated Chelsea in her career choice.
“As a Hispanic student pursuing radiology, I am also very aware of the lack of Hispanic representation in this field,” she said. “I have witnessed many Hispanic patients enter my clinic feeling lost, intimidated, and unable to fully understand their health situations because they do not speak English fluently. In those moments, I feel truly honored to be able to step in and help—whether it’s translating, explaining a procedure, or simply offering comfort.
“Just as the NYC Hispanic Chamber of Commerce supports Hispanic students and professionals in achieving success,” Chelsea said, “I hope to use my career in radiology to uplift and advocate for others in my community.”
• • • •
LaGuardia Community College (LAGCC), a Hispanic-Serving Institution, located in Long Island City, Queens offers more than 50 associate degrees and academic certificates, and more than 65 continuing education programs to prepare New Yorkers for transfer to senior colleges and rewarding jobs and careers. An institution of the City University of New York (CUNY), the College reflects the legacy of our namesake, Fiorello H. LaGuardia, the former NYC mayor beloved for his advocacy of the underserved. Since 1971, LaGuardia’s academic programs and support services have advanced the socioeconomic mobility of students from Queens, NYC and beyond.
####