Eric Roldan comes from a long line of East Chicago residents. He has used this legacy and pride in his city to motivate him to become a success story for the community that he loves.
“My parents grew up in East Chicago, so I always heard all of the great stories and got to know so many great people. The diverse and rich history was something I always wanted to be a part of,” he said.
Eric used the Foundations of East Chicago (FEC) scholarship program as a stepping stone to get to where he wanted to be educationally and professionally. He attended Trine University where he majored in Sports management and minored in Marketing. Currently, Eric is working on his MBA at Indiana University Northwest, where he also works as the Head Assistant Men’s Basketball Coach.
“The scholarships have allowed me so many amazing opportunities. Yes, it has been a huge part of me attending college and graduate school, but it also motivated me to make the most of it,” he explained.
While in school, Eric participated in multiple honors societies, Kappa Sigma, the American Marketing Association, and the National Business Honor Society Delta Mu Delta. He also interned with an NBA-affiliate team.
Eric derived his drive and motivation to be successful and involved from his deep love for his hometown of East Chicago.
“East Chicago does not always get the portrayed in a positive light and I wanted to be a success story to prove, along with many others, that the city produces motivated and passionate people that truly want to make a difference,” he said.
Eric hopes that earning his MBA will give him more opportunities to give back to his community.
“The older I get, the more I understand the positive impact these scholarships have been in my life. I have gained an even greater appreciation for the city and people of East Chicago.”
For more information on scholarship recipients like Eric, visit www.FoundationsEC.org.
