Diego Escalante is from Eagle Mountain, Utah, and attended Cedar Valley High School, where he served as President of the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) in 2026, received NACDA National Recognition in 2026, was named a Ronald E. McNair Scholar in 2026, was recognized as a First-Generation College Student in 2026, earned NACDA All-State honors in 2026, received Varsity Letter Awards in both Track & Field (2022–2023) and Football (2021–2022), and earned Eagle Scout rank in 2018.Â
He is majoring in Criminal Justice Studies. Escalante chose Westminster because it gave him the opportunity to rebuild and grow after one of the hardest moments of his life — after suffering a torn Achilles injury in high school, he learned his identity was bigger than just being an athlete, and Westminster let him continue his passion for track & field and cross country while growing as a leader, first-generation student, and Ronald E. McNair Scholar.
His dream is to pursue a Ph.D. in Criminology or Sociology and become a professor using research to deepen understanding of crime, society, and human behavior, while also hoping to serve his community through a career with the FBI or federal law enforcement, using his experience as a first-generation student and athlete to inspire others and create opportunities for future generations.
Favorite athlete: Lionel Messi, whom he admires for his perseverance, humility, and unmatched mindset.
