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Leadership in Action: Larry Hernandez Iriarte earns UAT's Brooke Cayce Award - Spring 2025

For this semester’s Brooke Cayce Legacy Leadership Award recipient and 2025 University of Advancing Technology (UAT) Graduate Larry Hernandez Iriarte, being recognized wasn’t something he saw coming. It wasn’t the goal—but that’s exactly what makes it so meaningful. His journey at UAT was shaped not by a drive for accolades, but by a genuine passion for collaboration, creativity, and community. “It’s an honor to receive this award,” he said. “But I wasn’t doing all of this to get an award. I was just being active—connecting with students, building relationships. That’s what makes it feel so special. It was never about chasing recognition.”
 

From the start, he found his place on campus through hands-on projects. Whether leading his own or contributing to others', collaboration became his cornerstone. “Projects kept me motivated. I’d meet people through clubs and other activities, and we’d work together—helping each other, sharing ideas. That’s how I stayed involved.” Larry understood that college offers a rare environment—one where people are open to sharing knowledge and energy. He wanted to make the most of that. “You only get this once—being surrounded by people who are just as excited to build something as you are. I knew I had to take advantage of that.”

When asked about influential figures during his time at UAT, he mentioned Professor Ryan Murray, who encouraged him to take ownership of his ideas. “Meeting Professor Ryan changed how I looked at creating things. He inspired me to stop hesitating and just do it—to build what I want and trust myself as a creator.”

One of his proudest memories was presenting his award winning Student Innovation Project (SIP) Fair Game in Production Studios. The moment marked not just a milestone in class, but a celebration of teamwork and creativity. “We worked so hard on that project. Seeing our video on screen, knowing the effort we all put in—that was huge.”

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His next chapter begins quickly: a new role with Airpark Signs, a company he toured as a student. He starts May 20th on a 10-week contract. “They offered me the job last Friday, gave me the weekend to think it over, and I accepted. I’m excited—it’s a chance to get started right away, learn, and see where it leads.”

At the same time, he plans to continue developing Fair Game, blending his entrepreneurial ambitions with hands-on industry experience. “Entrepreneurship is still the goal. I want to build something of my own and keep that going, even as I step into the workforce.”

From building community on campus to stepping into a new career, this Brooke Cayce Legacy Leadership Award recipient shows that leading with authenticity, curiosity, and heart can leave a lasting impact—both on others and on your own path.

 

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