09/28/2026
Andy Morales Plata was just 3 years old when his family moved from Mexico to Madison, Wisconsin. While he struggled in school, if Andy heard the words “program” or “club,” he wanted to be there. Those spaces helped him find focus and discover his life’s purpose: creating conditions where people can thrive.
Andy has dedicated more than 1,700 hours to community service, supporting non-profit and faith organizations across Madison. He also shares his journey with young people, showing how resources, support systems and caring mentors can help them navigate the challenges of growing up in a low-income or undocumented household.
Among his many mentorship roles, Andy serves as lead coordinator of Escalera, Centro’s program for high school students. He says the program gave him space to breathe, be himself and recharge no matter what was happening at home or school. In addition to helping students explore their goals and future opportunities, whether college or another path, Andy helps them build resilience and skills they need to flourish.
A University of Wisconsin–Madison graduate, Andy is now pursuing a master’s degree in public health through the University of Michigan. As he works to build a fulfilling life, he surrounds himself with people who inspire him through art, fashion, culture, climbing, food and music. That outlook shapes both how he lives and how he serves others.
“I'm excited to take this ethos that life has developed for me and see how it applies to whatever spaces I find myself in next,” Andy says. “I hope to continue being of service to people and helping make our human experience feel a little more whole and fulfilling.”
UW Health has supported Centro Dane County for many years, and we are proud to elevate the voices and experiences of members of our community like Andy during Latinx Heritage Month (September 15-October 15).
