The Correctional Peace Officers Foundation is proud to recognize Alizza Sanchez, daughter of retired Correctional Officer Abel Sanchez of Corcoran, California, as a recipient of a 2026 CPOF Scholarship.
Alizza is currently enrolled in the Nursing Program at Fresno City College, where she began her studies in January 2026 and is working toward an anticipated graduation in December 2027. In addition to her nursing education, she is pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Public Health with a concentration in Community Health at California State University, Fresno.
A dedicated and accomplished student, Alizza has maintained a 3.9 GPA while earning a place on the President’s List ten times and the Dean’s List once. Her commitment to academic excellence reflects the determination and work ethic she brings to every aspect of her life.
Alizza’s passion for helping others extends well beyond the classroom. In 2025, she worked as a caregiver, an experience that strengthened her desire to serve those in need through healthcare. She also volunteered with West Family Fresno, assisting low-income families and single mothers by helping connect them with essential resources, including food assistance, transportation services, and access to medical care.
In her scholarship essay, Alizza shared that the financial demands of higher education, including tuition, books, and living expenses, can be challenging despite her hard work and academic success. Receiving a CPOF Scholarship will help reduce that burden, allowing her to remain focused on her studies and clinical training as she works toward becoming a registered nurse.
“Receiving this scholarship would greatly reduce my financial burden and allow me to remain focused on my studies and clinical training,” Alizza wrote. “This support would play a vital role in helping me achieve my goal of becoming a registered nurse and serving my community with compassion and dedication.”
Inspired by a lifelong commitment to service and the example set by her father’s 25-year career in corrections, Alizza is determined to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others through healthcare.
The Correctional Peace Officers Foundation is honored to support Alizza as she continues her educational journey. We congratulate her on her accomplishments and look forward to seeing the impact she will make as a future nurse and community health advocate.
Congratulations, Alizza, and thank you for sharing your story with the CPOF family.