Alumni Spotlight: Nyeva | Where are they Now?

Palmer Scholars story doesn't end at graduation. These alumni spotlights highlight the diverse paths our scholars take and the lasting impact they are making in their careers, families, and communities.

Nyeva P. | Palmer Scholars Alum, 1995

Nyeva P. - Executive Director, Events, Strategic Initiatives (Rice University)

For many alumni, Palmer Scholars is more than a program it is a lifelong community.

Nyeva's Palmer Scholars story began in high school in 1995. With the guidance and encouragement of his longtime mentor, Mr. Schain, she remained deeply connected to the Palmer family throughout her academic journey. While she earned a full undergraduate scholarship through Bank of America to attend Washington State University, she credits Palmer Scholars for providing something equally valuable: a strong network of support, encouragement, and social capital during her college years.

“Palmer Scholars provided immense peer encouragement and a lifelong network while I was navigating undergrad,” she shared.

After graduating, she sought ways to give back to the organization that had invested in her. In 2005, she joined Palmer Scholars as both a board member and mentor, helping support the next generation of scholars. During this time, Palmer Scholars also continued investing in her own growth. Through an enhancement fund scholarship, she received financial support that helped cover the costs of earning his Master of Public Administration (MPA) in 2008.

Today, she lives in Houston and serves as the Director of Strategic Initiatives and Events for the School of Humanities and Arts at Rice University. Her work continues to focus on college readiness and student success, reflecting the values and mission that first inspired her as a Palmer Scholar.

As this year’s graduating scholars prepare for their next chapter, she offers this advice:

“Your hometown community is traveling with you in spirit. College is about so much more than the classroom; it is about building your perspective, expanding your circle, and discovering what drives you. When a semester gets overwhelming, protect your peace of mind and remember that you don't have to carry the weight alone. Hard times don't last, but your resilience does. Lean into the Palmer Scholars network your community back home is always behind you, and your fellow alumni are ready to help you navigate every step of the way.”

Her story is a powerful reminder that the Palmer Scholars experience extends far beyond graduation. The relationships, mentorship, and community built through the program continue to create opportunities and support for scholars long after they leave high school.

Connect with Nyeva via LinkedIn here: Nyeva P. | LinkedIn

Are you a former Palmer Scholar? We would love to hear from you! Contact us to be featured on our next "Where are they Now" blogpost.