Justin M. Sanchez

Justin Michael Sanchez was a promising UCLA philosophy student who unexpectedly passed at the age of 22.  

He was born and raised in North Orange County, California, and attended public schools in the Yorba Linda area. As he attended Yorba Linda High School, his educational goals began to crystalize: He knew he wanted to go to a University of California school – preferably UCLA – and maybe study law some day. He valued his own education as both a priority and a blessing.

Justin began his journey at a local community college – Santiago Canyon Community College – where he explored several interests until his passion was lit for Philosophy, an ideal path toward law. He worked hard at his Philosophy classes, earned an AA, and applied for a transfer to continue his education at even higher levels. He was accepted at UC Irvine, UC Santa Barbara and then … his dream school, UCLA!  Justin’s proudest day was the day he joined the UCLA student body majoring in Philosophy. His hard work and continued hope had paid off.

After Justin’s sudden passing in the spring of 2017, just days into his third quarter of his junior year, his parents Johnny and Denise Sanchez created the Justin M. Sanchez Memorial for Higher Education.  

They thought it fitting because – In addition to reaching his own dream school – Justin had always helped others to reach their educational goals through tutoring and mentoring. 

It is through this Memorial that Justin's parents hope his legacy of generosity, compassion for others, and his passion for education will live on.