Iliana Arie Scholarship Fund

liana Arie Velez was born with determination, ambition, and a competitive spirit in all aspects of her life. She was a beacon of light, radiating with fiery energy that ignited at any given moment. She had a deep passion and talent for running, art, fashion, dancing, music, and eventually became a self-taught musician. At the age of 16, her true independence blossomed as she not only participated in long after school track practices, but shealso managed to balance working multiple jobs as well asvoluntarily taking on the responsibility of picking up her younger sister from school. Any fear she had experienced previously in any part of life as a growing adolescent, was replaced with courage. By the age of 17, Iliana achieved the Katy I.S.D. Track & Field District Championship Title in the 4x400 Meter Relay for her high school. Her consistency and drive led her to earn a total of 40 medals within her high school track career. She also demonstrated her self-taught musical ability by performing her most popular songs on her piano on multiple social platforms. She served as a magnet, bringing together all types of individuals and was genuinely loved by anyone she interacted with. Engaging in conversation with Iliana, was immediately accompanied by a glow in her face, especially if a common interest was shared. She thrived on sharing and expanding her passions by engaging in deep intellectual conversations about the world, human behavior, life, and the afterlife. Last, but not least, Iliana would always encourage other by saying, "You got this!”