Nine from the U of A named to this year’s 40 Under 40

By Jade Norden, University Marketing and Communications
July 21, 2026
Graphic for the 'Tucson Hispanic Chamber of Commerce 40 Under 40' awards. The background is a gradient of yellow to orange, resembling a desert sunset. Bold black text in the center reads 'FORTY FORTY.' The top left shows the SPZHHCC (Tucson Hispanic Chamber of Commerce) logo. Below that, it says 'Presented by Snell & Wilmer' and 'Partner: Arizona Daily Star.'

Nine individuals from the U of A are on this year’s 40 Under 40 list, which recognizes professionals for their work, leadership and commitment to advancing the Southern Arizona community.

The University of Arizona is again well represented on the annual 40 Under 40 list, recognizing professionals under the age of 40 for their work, leadership and commitment to advancing the Southern Arizona community. 

Nine individuals from the U of A are on this year’s list, presented by the Southern Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, the Arizona Daily Star and the Snell & Wilmer law firm. 

Among the honorees is Lauren Coronado, program coordinator for research engagement in the Office of Research and Partnerships. Coronado said she is “beyond honored” to be among the honorees.

"I like to tell people that I have the coolest job on campus, whether that's creating opportunities for our amazing faculty to share their research, connecting with our industry partners, or launching a new center or institute,” Coronado said. "I love what I do. I am so grateful to see that our events make an impact, and I can't wait to have more opportunities to bring people together."

The 2026 U of A honorees include: 

  • Valeria Alonso, career development coordinator for the Department of Computer Science 
  • Lauren Coronado, program coordinator for research engagement in the Office of Research and Partnerships 
  • Noah Fifita, Arizona Football quarterback 
  • Chris Gast, senior director of student resources and professor of practice at the James E. Rogers College of Law 
  • Jhonatan Henao-Munoz, assistant professor of practice in the W.A. Franke Honors College 
  • Brenda Lara, instructor in the Department of Spanish and Portuguese 
  • Stephanie Marks, part-time faculty member in the College of Nursing and clinical director of the Family Care Center 
  • Gabriel Martinez, program aide for the Department of Family and Community Medicine
  • Celina Urquidez, education and training senior coordinator at the Sonoran Center for Excellence in Disabilities 

This year’s honorees will be recognized during a breakfast reception on August 18 at the JW Marriott Starr Pass Resort and Spa. 

The university also had strong showings on the 2025 list and 2024 list.