Manuel Caballero is starting his first year as college freshmen at North Lake College. Manuel became a scholar of the Magdaleno Leadership Institute in 2012. He has been a dedicated student and asset to Irving Independent School District by helping students learn English, keep up with their school work and encourage them to attend college.  JOURNEYS, one of the programs implemented in the district assists students with college readiness. It is a student leadership program that Manuel not only joined but took the initiative to grow and improve. He is now currently the program leader. Moreover, he not only leads this program on his campus, but also went above and beyond to expand this program to other high schools in the Irving Independent School District! Mr. Caballero participated in the Hispanic College Fund summer institute at one of the local universities (SMU) and is now leading other district high schools to implement the JOURNEYS program. Manuel began his education in the United States as a middle school student who did not speak a word of English. Manuel is focused and a true servant leader! He is constantly taking action on issues that need to be changed in our community and creating a culture where we can thrive. He is creating a place where students can use their education and motivation as a source of power to move forward.  Manuel is a recent graduate MacArthur High School graduating with over 450 community services hours. He will start college in the Fall of 2012 and plans to then transfer onto a four year university to pursue a degree in History and Bilingual Education.