NFA News

The NFA is thrilled to announce that the 2025 First Generation in College Scholarship has been awarded to Leonardo Martinez.

The First Generation in College Scholarship is a merit-based, one-time monetary award to be applied toward flute tuition, educational fees, or any other related expenses including but not limited to housing, meals, travel, or educational materials. In addition, Martinez will receive one-on-one career mentorship sessions with a member of the NFA Career and Artistic Development Committee during the 2025-26 academic year.

“It is truly an honor and a privilege to receive the National Flute Association’s First Generation Scholarship,” says Martinez, a student of Professor Terri Sundberg at the University of North Texas. “Receiving this scholarship is a huge blessing in so many ways. The support of the NFA and mentorship means so much, and the scholarship funds will assist me in preparing for graduate auditions and help finance my professional flute. As someone who is from an underprivileged community with little to no private flute instruction, this award not only assists me financially, but also acknowledges the hard work and dedication it has taken for me to pursue this passion for the flute. This wouldn't have been possible without the support from my professor, Terri Sundberg, and my colleagues who have helped pave the path for me to receive this award. I am forever grateful, and I hope to one day give back to my community and pass it on in the same way that the National Flute Association has helped me.”

“Leo Martinez has wonderful talent and potential,” says Terri Sundberg, who teaches Martinez at the University of North Texas. “Leo did not have private flute lessons until arriving at the UNT College of Music, and it has been an absolute thrill to watch him blossom into a beautiful flutist despite tremendous financial challenges. Many thanks to the NFA for supporting Leo’s musical passion and dream.”

“As an educator and advocate for access and equity in the arts, I am incredibly proud to celebrate Leonardo Martinez as the 2025 First Generation in College Scholarship recipient,” says Jammie Philips, who coordinated this year’s scholarship application cycle. “His story reflects the resilience, drive, and talent that this award was created to uplift. Leonardo’s journey reminds us of the power of music education to transform lives—especially when coupled with opportunity and mentorship. His growth as an artist and his commitment to giving back to his community are inspiring, and I have no doubt he will continue to blaze trails in the flute world and beyond. Congratulations, Leo—you represent the very best of what is possible.”

The First Generation in College Scholarship is made possible by a generous donation from Julie Maisel in memory of John Raphael (Raphy) Doyle. To learn more about the scholarship and meet past recipients, visit nfaonline.org/firstgen

About Leonardo Martinez

Leonardo Martinez is from Laredo, Texas, and studies at the University of North Texas, pursuing a BM in Music Performance. Leo studies with Professor Terri Sundberg and has blossomed as a flutist and artist since arriving at UNT two years ago, despite never receiving private flute lessons before attending UNT. Professor Sundberg’s guidance in helping him refine his flute skills and artistry has been invaluable; he is grateful for pushing him to pursue new musical opportunities. Leo performs with the UNT Wind Ensemble, the UNT Flute Choir, the Laredo Flute Choir, and is an avid chamber music participant. Leo plans to pursue graduate school in flute performance upon completing his undergraduate degree at UNT.