Newsroom

The Paul Merage School of Business is proud to recognize Rosa Navarrete, a current Master of Innovation and Entrepreneurship (MIE) student, as the school’s 2025 graduate student recipient of the prestigious Latine Excellence and Achievement Awards (LEAD). The annual LEAD Awards, hosted by UC Irvine’s Office of Inclusive Excellence, honor outstanding faculty, staff, and students who have made significant contributions to the Latine community through research, mentorship, advocacy, and service.

Navarrete exemplifies the spirit of innovation and leadership that defines the Merage School. As a section representative within the MIE program, she has become a strong advocate for her peers—working tirelessly to support fellow students and championing initiatives aimed at enhancing the graduate experience. Faculty and staff alike have noted her ability to lead with empathy, integrity, and vision.

Beyond her academic accomplishments, Navarrete is a dynamic storyteller and entrepreneur. She owns and operates a production company focused on elevating underrepresented voices in media, particularly those from the Latinx community. Her creative work has been recognized by the BIPOC Sci-Fi Screenwriting Lab and the BIPOC Critics Lab, further highlighting her commitment to inclusive storytelling.

Her leadership extends far beyond campus. Navarrete serves as a board member for the Refugee Children Center, where she supports displaced youth through advocacy and outreach. She also holds the role of co-vice chair for the National Playwriting Program, a platform that promotes diverse playwrights and stories across the country.

“Rosa represents the very best of what the Merage School stands for—visionary leadership, entrepreneurial spirit, and a deep commitment to community,” said Lisa Shulman Manager of Strategic Initiatives, MBA and Specialty Masters Programs. “We are thrilled to see her recognized at this year’s LEAD Awards.”

As Navarrete continues to grow her impact across both business and media, her work is a reminder of the power of innovation rooted in purpose. Her recognition at LEAD is not just a celebration of individual excellence, but a testament to the value of centering equity, creativity, and compassion in leadership.

To learn more about the LEAD Awards sponsored by the Merage School, visit: https://inclusion.uci.edu/education-events/mentoring/latino-excellence-and-achievement-award.