By Sara Hinds
Eliza Molina Cruz is the 2026 recipient of the Michael Krantz Scholarship. Established by Michael Krantz ’83 and Geralyn Semerena Krantz ’85, the $20,000 scholarship ($5,000 per year) is awarded to a graduating senior from a Saline County high school who will attend Doane, with a preference given to first-generation students.
Cruz is a senior at Crete High School who plans to double major in psychology and Spanish at Doane, with a goal to become a mental health advocate within the Hispanic community.
“Mental health is often overlooked in this community, and I want to help change that, especially for younger generations,” Cruz said. “Many of us have grown up with the mindset of simply ‘dealing’ with our emotions rather than understanding them, which can lead to harmful outcomes. I hope to use my education to break that cycle, provide support and promote healthier ways of coping and healing.”
Doane has been her “dream school since eighth grade.” Now she views the university as the perfect environment for her to develop as a leader. Cruz is quick to note how building strong relationships in high school shaped her into a better person. The people and community that surround Cruz will continue to play a large role in her life at Doane
“From what I have learned, the university fosters a diverse and inclusive environment, which I am eager to be a part of,” Cruz said. “I look forward to meeting people from different backgrounds, learning from their experiences, and broadening my own perspective.”
About the Michael Krantz Scholarship
Michael Krantz ’83 was a first-generation student from Crete who dreamed of going to Doane. Family finances postponed his collegiate experience, but he eventually attended Doane after time in the military and workforce. After graduation, he worked at Peter Kiewit Construction for 14 years. He and his wife, Geralyn Semerena Krantz ’85, both passed away in 2001. Michael created the scholarship to support students like himself — a first-generation Crete area student.
