Distinguished Senior Juan Gomez-Solis picked to speak at Commencement
From a pool of 13 exceptional finalists, Carthage College has selected Juan Gomez-Solis ’25 as both the Distinguished Senior and the senior class Commencement speaker.
Each year, a committee of Carthage faculty and staff members reviews nominations for the Distinguished Senior Award and selects the recipient. Criteria include academic achievement, organizational leadership, and service to the Carthage and wider communities. The speaker is drawn from the same group of finalists.
An aspiring biochemistry researcher, Juan is preparing to graduate with majors in biology and Spanish plus a minor in chemistry. The Kenosha resident has been a regular on the Carthage dean’s list.
Last summer, Juan completed a Research Experience for Undergraduates at Purdue University that focused on genetics and biochemical analysis of proteins. He plans to take a “gap year” after graduation, continuing his research before applying to graduate programs.
After earning one of Carthage’s Modern Languages Scholarships, Juan continued to work as a tutor, lab assistant, and department fellow to help support his family. He also served as president of the Biology Club and the First Generation Organization, shared his Latino culture through Mi Gente, and volunteered with the Carthage-Bound pre-orientation program.
“This allowed me to foster a community driven by helping others while encompassing my background’s unique elements,” Juan wrote in a personal statement. “As I wrap up my final year at Carthage, I am grateful that these experiences have allowed me to grow both as a scholar and a person.“