The Barrientos Scholarship Foundation: A Legacy Rooted in Family and Culture

Marcos Mora

The Barrientos Scholarship Foundation's story begins in the 1920s when Marcos Mora’s grandfather made the courageous journey from Mexico to Omaha, Nebraska. This migration laid the groundwork for the Barrientos family legacy in the United States—a legacy that would blossom into a beacon of support for Latino students.

Marcos Mora, a third-generation resident of Omaha, felt the deep connection between his cultural heritage and the power of education. After completing his studies at the University of Nebraska at Omaha, he understood the barriers many Latino students faced in accessing higher education. Inspired by the mentorship of Dr. James Ramirez and driven by a desire to pay it forward, Mora founded the Barrientos Scholarship Foundation in 2005 to honor both his family's history and his commitment to supporting the next generation of Latino scholars.

The foundation’s purpose was clear: to reduce the financial burden for Latino students demonstrating academic excellence, personal ambition, and a dedication to community service. From the start, it focused not just on academics but on fostering a sense of belonging and pride in one’s heritage. The all-volunteer board of directors worked tirelessly to ensure that nearly all funds raised went directly toward scholarships.

By spring 2024, the foundation had reached an impressive milestone, awarding over $335,000 in scholarships to Latino high school and college students in the Greater Omaha area. Each award represents a tribute to the Barrientos family, specifically the late Barrientos brothers, whose contributions to the community laid the foundation for future generations.

The scholarship does more than provide financial assistance—it bridges the past and the future. Every dollar awarded serves as a testament to the sacrifices made by immigrant families and a promise to the generations that follow. The foundation honors the experiences of families like the Barrientos, reminding students of the resilience and strength that flow through their heritage.

Through its deep connection to cultural preservation and educational advancement, the Barrientos Scholarship Foundation continues to empower students by not only opening doors to higher education but also instilling a profound pride in where they come from. This unique combination of history, culture, and support makes the foundation an enduring pillar in the Latino community, ensuring that the legacies of the past continue to fuel the dreams of tomorrow.