Senior Spotlight: Denisse Palacios Delgado ’25 Pursues a Path of Impact

April 25, 2025

Denisse Palacious DelgadoA proud first-generation college student and the youngest in her family, Denisse Palacios Delgado '25 has made her time at Whittier College count.

In addition to her academic pursuits, the social work major from Atlanta has embraced leadership roles both on campus and in the local community.

“Growing up in a Hispanic household, I learned the value of hard work and community, often balancing family expectations with my personal and academic goals,” she said.

Palacios Delgado has served as lead student ambassador for admission, first-generation coordinator for the Office of Equity and Inclusion (OEI), co-chair of the Latinx Celebration, head residential advisor, and vice president of the Phi Alpha Theta Honors Society. She has also honed her professional skills as a school social work intern for the East Whittier City School District.

With Commencement on the horizon, she’s setting her sights on continuing her passion for advocacy and child welfare.

We asked her a few questions about her experience as a Poet and her plans for the future.

What’s next for you after graduation?
Grad School! I’m excited to pursue my Master’s in Social Work, with a focus on child welfare. My goal is to make a meaningful impact through school social work and nonprofit advocacy.

What’s a fun fact about you?
In high school, I was a part of the JROTC program.

What’s your favorite Whittier memory?
Planning the Latinx welcome dinners and Latinx cultural celebrations!

What was your favorite class at Whittier?
Hair and Makeup Design! I enjoyed all the makeup looks in class and recreating them..

What’s your favorite spot on campus?
The OEI.

If you could give your first-year self some advice, what would it be?
Live in the moment and go to as many events on campus as you can!