We are proud to celebrate Nicholas Mendieta ’36, Alejandro Mendieta ’33, Skyler Barrios ’33, and Elle Barrios ’32, who were honored at the Biltmore Hotel with the 2025 Green Visionary Award for their leadership in launching the Coastal Cleanup Initiative.
What started as a simple idea has grown into a powerful youth-led movement that has already inspired hundreds across South Florida to take part in protecting our coastal ecosystems. Through the Coastal Cleanup Initiative, families, children, and local organizations have come together to remove debris from our shoreline while learning about conservation, sustainability, and the importance of environmental stewardship.
This recognition reflects the values we champion at Gulliver—service, leadership, and global citizenship—and exemplifies how our students are preparing to thrive in a changing world. By taking bold action to address real-world challenges, Nicholas, Alejandro, Skyler, and Elle are showing what it means to achieve whole success: not only excelling as individuals, but also contributing meaningfully to their community and to the future of our planet.
As they continue their journey at Gulliver, these students are committed to expanding the initiative and rallying their peers to join in creating a cleaner, greener tomorrow. Their story is a testament to the power of young voices, and a reminder that when passion meets purpose, our students can lead the way in shaping a better world.
