FaM Families

Angel and Omar Lupian-Alvarez

Angel and Omar Lupian-Alvarez are first-generation students whose journeys at CU Denver have been shaped by family, community, and the support they found in the FaM Program. Angel first connected with CU Denver through high school programs that introduced him to FaM and to mentors who encouraged him even before he fully believed he belonged in business spaces. He remembers attending his first FaM dinner as a quiet first year student, unsure of who he was supposed to become. Over time, the encouragement he received from FaM leaders Nimol and Dom, helped him grow into someone who walks into professional rooms with confidence and purpose.

Omar’s decision to attend CU Denver came from similar high school experiences, but even more from watching Angel’s growth. Seeing how much FaM supported his brother made the university feel familiar and welcoming. Knowing he would have both family support and a community that understood the first-generation experience made the transition to college feel less intimidating. For Omar, CU Denver already felt like a place he belonged because he had seen someone like him succeed there.

Their sibling relationship has been a steady source of motivation. Angel describes being the older brother as responsibility that shaped his entire journey. Helping Omar connect with professionals and firms was meaningful, but the deeper impact came from watching his younger brother step into spaces that once felt overwhelming to him. It reminded Angel of how far he had come and encouraged him to lead with intention. Supporting his brother strengthened his own sense of purpose and made him more intentional about mentorship.

Omar sees Angel as both a sibling and a mentor. Through him, he learned how to network, build relationships, and carry himself with confidence in professional environments. Seeing Angel earn an internship with a Big Four firm showed him that those opportunities were possible for students like them. He says that Angel helped make intimidating spaces feel normal, and that support made the pressures of being first-generation feel lighter.

Their parents’ sacrifices are at the center of everything they pursue. They grew up watching their parents work long hours to create opportunities they never had, and both Angel and Omar see their education as a way to honor that effort. Angel is driven by a deep love for growth and excellence, and Omar shares that same commitment as he works toward building a meaningful future for himself and his family. Being first-generation and students of color has shaped the way they navigate college, and both hope their success encourages others from similar backgrounds to pursue opportunities with confidence.

FaM has been a meaningful part of their growth. Angel reflects on the friendships he built and how those relationships became a source of accountability and motivation. Omar shares that FaM has been a place where he can draw strength during overwhelming moments and connect with mentors who genuinely want to see him succeed.

Outside of academics, both brothers have interests that keep them grounded. Angel loves early mornings, quiet coffee rituals, the gym, music, reading, and time spent in coffee shops. Omar enjoys staying active, playing sports, listening to music, and solving puzzles like the Rubik’s Cube. One of their favorite ways to spend time together is playing basketball. Angel says he is still undefeated, and Omar insists he is getting closer every time. Their friendly rivalry captures the closeness and humor that define their relationship.

They offer shared advice for other students. Angel advises, “If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that growth doesn’t always happen in loud moments. Sometimes it happens in the quiet, in the early mornings, in the stillness, in the small decisions no one sees... slow down enough to notice those moments. Enjoy the wind on your walk to class. Let a song really move you. Sit in the silence sometimes. At the same time, don’t be afraid to dream big and work relentlessly for what you want. You can chase excellence without losing your softness. You can be ambitious and still appreciate the sun on your face. Life isn’t just about becoming something; it’s about being present while you do.”

Omar adds, “Don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Mistakes aren’t failures, they’re opportunities to learn, adjust, and grow. Some of the biggest lessons come from moments that don’t go perfectly, and those experiences are often what shape you the most... ask questions and reach out to people. Don’t be afraid to introduce yourself, connect with mentors, or step into rooms that feel intimidating at first. Growth happens outside of your comfort zone, and more people are more willing to help than you think. Finally, challenge yourself but also have fun. College isn’t just about earning a diploma; it’s about building relationships, discovering who you are, and enjoying the journey. The connections you make and the experiences you embrace will stay with you long after graduation”

Angel and Omar’s story reflect the heart of the FaM Program. Their journey is one of family, resilience, representation, and community. Together, they show what it looks like to rise, to lead, and to bring others with them.