The Viles & Beckman Foundation, Inc., in partnership with Viles & Beckman, has awarded the 2025 Marcus W. Viles Community Growth Scholarship to Claudia Masmitja Corujo, a student at the University of Florida majoring in Health Education and Behavior on a Pre-PA track. The scholarship, valued at $2,500, recognizes Corujo's dedication to community service and her commitment to addressing health disparities among marginalized groups.
Corujo, who was born in Spain to a family with deep Cuban roots, moved to Miami at a young age. Her family's rapid integration into a welcoming community shaped her perspective on the importance of support and connection. "The kindness I received during that difficult transition inspired me to one day become that source of comfort and familiarity for others," she wrote in her scholarship essay. This experience drove her to seek opportunities to give back, leading her to join the First-Generation Leadership Program at the University of Florida.
Through the program, Corujo connected with other multicultural, first-generation students and found mentorship opportunities. She served as the program's Head of Public Relations from 2024 to 2025, focusing on expanding its reach and impact. Additionally, she partnered with the Member Leadership Program and worked as a substitute teacher with the UF Early Childhood Collaboratory, demonstrating her commitment to supporting young people.
The scholarship will help Corujo continue her studies on how economic disparities and social inequities affect marginalized groups, particularly in healthcare. She plans to pursue a Health Education and Behavior Combined Master's Program after graduation, with a career goal in pediatrics or neonatal care. Corujo's consistency and determination align with the legacy of Marcus W. Viles, for whom the scholarship is named, according to the selection committee.
Since 1995, Viles & Beckman, known as "The 5-Star Law Firm," has focused on personal injury cases in Florida, emphasizing a client-centered approach. The Viles & Beckman Foundation was established to support education and community growth through scholarships, mentorship, and partnerships. The foundation's mission is to "Empower Young Minds, Illuminating Futures" across Southwest Florida, reflecting the family values of the firm.
