The Kathy Pace Technology scholarship is an opportunity presented by Centre Technologies commemorating the late Kathy Pace, mother of CEO and Founder, Chris Pace. She firmly believed in supporting the community and continuing education. This scholarship opportunity is awarded to individuals in the technology field who possess compassion, drive, and a commitment to enhancing technology to improve the world. This year, our Kathy Pace Scholarship recipient was UTSA freshman, Diego Perez. We sat down with him to discuss where he's at today and where he wants to be in the future.
What school are you currently attending and what are you studying?
Diego: I'm currently attending UTSA and majoring in Computer Science with a concentration in Cyber Operations. I'm also considering a minor in Intelligence Studies or possibly a foreign language. Right now, I’m studying Russian, which is definitely challenging but rewarding.
What are you most excited for on campus?
Diego: There’s always something happening on campus—events, booths, giveaways, even live music. I love that energy. I’m also part of the rugby club, which has been a great way to connect with others, stay active, and build teamwork. It’s a great outlet to leave everything behind for a few hours and just focus on the sport.
If you could have dinner with anyone, alive or dead, who would it be and why?
Diego: That’s a tough one. There are so many people with unique experiences. But honestly, I’d choose my dad. I haven’t had the chance to talk to him in a while, and I’d love to just sit down, catch up, and share a soda together.
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Chris Pace presenting Diego Perez scholarship check at Centre's office in San Antonio, Texas. |
What inspired you to pursue a career in that technology field? Why are you passionate about technology specifically?
Diego: My dad has been a law enforcement officer for over 25 years, and growing up around that mindset of protecting and serving really influenced me. I see cybersecurity as a way to continue that mission—protecting people in the digital space and helping mitigate the effects of cyberattacks.
Technology connects us in ways that were unimaginable before. Whether it’s sending a message across the globe in seconds or accessing knowledge instantly, it brings people together. That unity and accessibility is something I deeply value.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
Diego: It’s hard to say exactly, but in a perfect world, I’d have a stable career, maybe a paid-off apartment, and possibly be starting a family. I just hope to be in a place where I’m growing personally and professionally.
What will you be able to do now that you could not prior to receiving the Kathy Pace Scholarship?
Diego: This scholarship allows me to focus more on my studies without the stress of financial burdens. College can be tough financially, and this support helps me put more energy into achieving my academic goals and becoming a better student.
Any advice you have for those aspiring to get into the field of technology?
Diego: Just take that first step. It might seem overwhelming, but there are so many resources out there—blogs, videos, forums. Trial by fire is how I learned. You don’t have to know everything right away. Just start, and you’ll grow from there.
One of the requirements of the scholarship is to demonstrate how you plan to contribute to the next generation of technology professionals. We maintain you need to possess the compassion and commitment to use technology as a tool to improve the world we live in. With these characteristics and technology, how do you plan to change or improve the world we live in?
Diego: I want to make the world a more digitally secure place. Whether it’s making a financial transaction or sending a message, people should feel safe. I want to give users the confidence that their data and interactions are protected—and if something does go wrong, that there’s a path to recovery and reassurance.
Any additional thoughts or information you want to share with our Centre #ONETEAM and blog audiences?
Diego: I’m incredibly grateful to Centre Technologies. You don’t see many companies investing in the next generation like this. It’s amazing that y’all are helping students take that first step toward their dreams. Keep doing what you’re doing—it’s making a real difference.
We’re proud to support Diego Perez as he embarks on his journey to make the digital world safer and more connected. We look forward to seeing him grow and innovate in the years to come.
If you or someone you know would be interested in the Kathy Pace scholarship program, keep any eye out for next year's scholarship window. You can visit the Kathy Pace Scholarship webpage for more information on how to apply next year!
