Since 1923, Disney magic has inspired people around the world and made dreams come true—a mantra Disney Aspire has continued since debuting four years ago. When life circumstances got in the way of Disneyland Resort cast member J’Amy Pacheco attending her graduation, we brought this important celebration from Denver, Colorado right to Anaheim, complete with a surprise visit from the academic advisor instrumental to her success.
For the past seven years, J’Amy has welcomed guests as a VIP Tour Guide and, in 2022, was the proud recipient of the Walt Disney Legacy Award. Always up for a challenge, she enrolled in Disney Aspire at age 58 with her sights set on a degree in communications. Upon beginning her educational journey, J’Amy met Andrea Gross, an advisor at the University of Denver that would soon become an essential part of her support system.
When Andrea and the Disney Aspire team heard that J’Amy wouldn’t be able to attend graduation, they knew something needed to be done. So, through top secret planning alongside J’Amy’s leadership team and a little bit of Disney magic, J’Amy got the surprise of a lifetime when her graduation celebration was brought directly to her.
Watch the video below as she’s presented with her diploma, surrounded by those who helped her dream become a reality. #DreamsWithinReach
For more information on Disney Aspire, visit aspire.disney.com.
Disney Aspire is the most comprehensive education investment program of its kind, offering 150+ programs at a network of educational institutions nationwide. As part of The Walt Disney Company’s commitment to supporting its employees and cast members, Disney Aspire puts #DreamsWithinReach by removing key barriers to enrollment and inspiring career mobility.