Introducing Our Grand Marshal of Generations: Ms. Nadia Briones
This year, we are honored to announce that Ms. Nadia Briones will serve as one of the two Generational Grand Marshals for the Building A Purpose Old South San Parade, a celebration that highlights community pride, spirit, and the people who make it all possible. Being selected as Grand Marshal is no small feat. It’s an acknowledgment of leadership, resilience, and dedication to improving the lives of others. Nadia embodies all of these qualities, making her an exemplary choice to represent both the community and the mission of Building A Purpose (BAP).
What Does It Mean to Be a Grand Marshal?
A Grand Marshal serves as the ceremonial leader of the parade, representing the spirit, culture, and unity of the community. This person is chosen not just for their accomplishments but for their ongoing dedication to making a lasting, positive impact. Leading the procession is a celebration of the legacy of hard work, perseverance, and leadership, qualities that Ms. Briones has shown throughout her life and will continue to pass on to others. Nadia’s selection as Grand Marshal is a testament to her contributions as a role model, mentor, and leader.
A Pillar of the Community and BAP
Nadia Briones’ journey is one of determination, resilience, and the unwavering belief that our backgrounds do not define our futures. A proud South San Antonio High School graduate (Ranked #4 in her class), Nadia has long been a shining example of what it means to overcome adversity and succeed despite the odds. As a first-generation American, she faced significant challenges throughout her academic and professional journey. But through hard work, determination, and the support of her community, Nadia emerged victorious.
Her path to success was shaped by her involvement with Building A Purpose, where she was a Class of 2019 Mentee and a recipient of the Be Scholarship. BAP was instrumental in helping her gain the tools, mentorship, and resources she needed to succeed in higher education. Through this program, Nadia received invaluable support, which laid the foundation for her journey at Ohio State University, where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training with a minor in Spanish, graduating in May 2024.
During her time at Ohio State, Nadia balanced the demands of being a full-time student while working three jobs to support herself. Despite these hardships, she stayed focused and achieved her academic goals, exemplifying the resilience that many BAP students are known for. Her story is a powerful testament to what can be accomplished through perseverance and a strong sense of community.
But Nadia didn’t stop there. Now that she has earned her undergraduate degree, she is already preparing for her next challenge: Graduate School. She will begin her first semester just three months after graduation, continuing her pursuit of knowledge and personal development. Nadia is not only a leader for her own future but also an inspiration to those who follow her path.
The Power of BAP Connections
As someone who has transitioned from mentee to mentor, Nadia emphasizes how Building A Purpose was pivotal in shaping her success. She speaks passionately about the value of the program and the Be Scholarship, which was instrumental at the start of her college career. Nadia acknowledges that the connections and experiences gained through BAP have been “invaluable,” and she continues to advocate for the program’s ability to provide the resources, guidance, and community support that young people need to succeed.
Her words of encouragement for current and future BAP students are inspiring:
“As a Southside native, I am passionate about demonstrating that our backgrounds do not limit our capabilities. I aim to foster a culture of empowerment and positivity in the Southside community to ensure future generations are equipped to succeed. By participating with Building A Purpose, these opportunities will be beneficial for your future. Whether through job connections, advice, or scholarships, Building A Purpose was created by people who were sitting in your seats, and they will continue to advocate for you every step of the way.”
A Celebration of Leadership, Growth, and Community
Nadia Briones’ selection as Grand Marshal for the Building A Purpose Old South San Parade is a well-deserved recognition of her hard work, perseverance, and deep commitment to our community. Her story is one of triumph, not only in the academic realm but also in her dedication to uplifting others along the way. Through her participation with BAP, she is an embodiment of the program’s values, and her success is a reflection of the power of mentorship, resilience, and hard work.
We are proud to have Nadia as our Grand Marshal and look forward to celebrating her and the entire South San community during the parade. Her journey continues to inspire us all to push boundaries, challenge expectations, and uplift the generations that follow.
We invite you to join us in celebrating Ms. Nadia Briones and the entire parade procession, as we honor a leader who has truly earned her place at the forefront of our city’s story.