Congratulations to GPA’s ENB Rising Star Awardee, Edavina Lopez! Edavina came to the Allston-Brighton neighborhood from Guatemala in 2005, having had only 2 years of education in her home country. She is a stay at home mother to 3 children who attend the Gardner Pilot Academy elementary school. She has been a dedicated student in the Survival Literacy class at GPA’s evening adult ESOL program, and is now in her second year. Vila has shown great dedication and commitment, always showing up with a great attitude. She is a class leader: She helps newer students adjust to class and she is friendly to everyone, “like a mom for the class!”  In addition, Edavina constantly supports her neighbors, ensures their well-being, shares resources, and advocates for the voiceless.