Rivera Mitu Scholarship Foundation, Inc.
Empowering through Education, Rooted in Resilience
The Rivera Mitu Scholarship Foundation was born from two journeys—both shaped by poverty, sacrifice, and an unwavering belief in the power of education.
Eliza Rivera-Mitu: A Daughter of Hard Work and Hope
Growing up in the Philippines, Eliza knew the meaning of hardship from an early age. Her family couldn’t always afford a full meal, and as a child, she rented out comic books just to afford dried fish for dinner. Yet even in scarcity, she held on to her dreams. Her father, a firefighter, took dangerous assignments overseas in Vietnam and Saudi Arabia so he could send her to nursing school in Manila. He believed in her, and she never forgot that faith.
When Eliza migrated to the United States, she started again from the bottom—working as a nursing assistant, taking night shifts in skilled nursing facilities, and pushing herself through every challenge. After passing the RN boards, she continued her education and advanced her career, always guided by the principle that education is the key to changing not just your life, but your family’s future.
Brian Mitu: A First-Generation Journey of Determination
Brian’s story echoed the same grit. When he and his family migrated to the U.S. as first-generation immigrants from the Philippines, he began by earning his GED, working as a nursing assistant and caregiver while supporting his family. But he didn’t stop there—Brian advanced his education, earning his RN degree from a community college, and later, he was accepted into the prestigious Stanford University Physician Assistant and Nurse Practitioner Dual Primary Care Program. His journey is a testament to what’s possible when determination meets opportunity.
Why We Started This Foundation
Together, Eliza and Brian founded the Rivera Mitu Scholarship Foundation to honor their roots and extend the same opportunity they were given to others. As two healthcare professionals who climbed the ladder through hard work and education, they understand that access to learning is the first step to lasting change.
Their mission is simple: To help deserving students in underserved communities—especially in the Philippines and other developing nations—pursue their dreams through education.
What We Do
The Rivera Mitu Scholarship Foundation awards:
- Partial and full scholarships to college students, particularly in nursing and allied health fields
- Support for educational expenses such as tuition, books, and certification exams
- Mentorship and encouragement from professionals who have walked the same path
- Direct donations of money and essential goods to children and families living in poverty across developing nations—including school supplies, hygiene kits, food, and clothing
This expanded mission reflects our commitment not only to education but also to compassionate action, helping families meet basic needs while students pursue long-term goals.
Our Belief
We believe that education is not just a personal goal—it’s a generational investment. When you lift up one student, you lift up a family, a community, and a future.
Support Education. Transform Lives.
Help Our Cause
Your donation helps provide scholarships, school supplies, and basic necessities to students and families in underserved communities. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, all contributions to the Rivera Mitu Scholarship Foundation are tax-deductible. Every dollar makes a lasting impact.
Scholarships
The Liwayway Rivera Villareal Nursing Scholarship
Honoring a Legacy of Service, Sacrifice, and Generosity in Nursing
The Liwayway Rivera Villareal Nursing Scholarship was established in loving memory of Captain Liwayway “Lily” Rivera Villareal, a remarkable woman whose life embodied resilience, compassion, and lifelong service.
Born in 1930 in Bulacan, Philippines, Lily rose from humble beginnings during the Great Depression and Japanese occupation to become a pioneering military nurse, community caregiver, and beacon of generosity. She graduated from the Baguio General Hospital School of Nursing in 1953 and later served as a Captain in the Philippine Army Medical Corps, supporting her family and community through her earnings and strength of spirit. In 1959, she participated in a U.S. nursing exchange program and began a new chapter as a county nurse in Los Angeles, all while continuing to uplift others through her faith and quiet acts of kindness.
Lily lived her life by Galatians 6:10: “Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people…” She gave generously without expecting recognition—feeding the hungry, mentoring the young, and supporting anyone in need.
About the Scholarship
This scholarship provides partial or full tuition assistance to nursing students in developing countries who demonstrate financial need, academic promise, and a spirit of service. It is our way of continuing Lily’s mission: to give, uplift, and heal across borders.
Eligibility
- Nursing students enrolled or applying in accredited programs in developing countries
- Strong academic performance and commitment to community service
- Demonstrated financial need
How to Apply or Support
To apply or support this scholarship, please email CEO@elizarivera.com.
Romeo Mitu International Scholarship
The Romeo Mitu International Scholarship was established in memory of Romeo “Romy” Mitu, a deeply generous and humble man whose greatest joy came from helping others—often without ever being asked. Known for his warm smile and joyful spirit, Romeo had an incredible ability to sense when someone was struggling, whether financially or emotionally, and he would quietly extend help—especially in the form of financial support—without expecting anything in return.
Whether it was a young family member trying to launch a business, a neighbor facing a medical bill, or a student in need of tuition support, Romeo gave freely and consistently. His kindness was matched by his wisdom and practicality, encouraging those he helped to work hard, stay faithful, and keep moving forward.
About the Scholarship
This scholarship supports college students in developing countries who are pursuing studies in:
- Business Administration
- Accounting and Finance
- Entrepreneurship and Trade Programs
- Economics and other Professional Fields
It honors Romeo’s lifelong belief that financial support, when given with compassion and insight, can change a life—and that everyone deserves a chance to succeed.
Eligibility Criteria
- Students enrolled in business, accounting, trade, or related fields
- Demonstrated financial need
- Evidence of community involvement and character
- A commitment to uplifting others, just as Romeo always did
Eliza Rivera-Mitu APRN FNP-C A Prof Nursing Corp
www.ElizaRivera.com CEO@elizarivera.com
Phone: 562-786-6723 Fax: 562-786-6956
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