By Mira Radovich, Senior Contributing Writer
After his mom died when he was 7, Frank Nino IV faced a tumultuous childhood. He bounced around group homes, residing in almost 50 homes by the time he was 18.
Along the way he faced gang violence, drug addiction, and feelings of emptiness and loneliness.
Despite the hardships, Nino found an inner strength to overcome and thrive.
“I firmly believe that we hold the keys to building our own future,” Nino said. “I refused to be defined by the negative influences surrounding me. Instead, I focused on education, personal growth, and embracing the opportunities life had to offer.”
Nino dedicated himself to helping others with physical fitness by working full-time as a physical education teacher and athletic director.
But something was missing: a college education.
In 2019, Nino was inspired to try an online class at Rio Salado College.
“My mentor, who is the owner and principal at the charter school I worked at, suggested Rio and pushed me initially to take classes,” Nino said. “I started with just one class in 2019, but after that semester, I loved it so much I ended up taking three to four classes each semester after.”
Nino’s academic advisor Jenifer Chiara helped him craft a degree plan, and offered support and guidance along the way.
“Jenifer Chaira was like a second mom to me,” Nino said. “She spent countless hours helping me make sense of things, and enrolling me in classes when I did not know how to do it. You name it, and she did it. I absolutely love and have a high regard for Jenifer.”
By 2022, Nino earned both a Certificate in Organizational Leadership and an Associate in Arts with Emphasis in Communication.
He celebrated by participating in the college’s annual commencement ceremony. But Nino was not done learning. He continued taking classes, and just completed a second associate degree in organizational management, and a second certificate in human resources management in May.
With two degrees and two certificates in hand, Nino plans to transfer his credits to Northern Arizona University (NAU) to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Interdisciplinary Studies-Strategic Leadership, and a master’s degree in Parks and Recreation Management.
In 2022, Nino founded his business, Rising Sun Athletic League, as a way to give back to the community.
The league partners with Phoenix area elementary and middle schools to create an athletic environment where every student participates and feel embraced and supported.
“By fostering a sense of community and empowerment, we aim to inspire individuals and promote positive engagement within the communities of Phoenix,” Nino said.
Nino’s desire to help others is evident in another venture. In 2023, Nino published a book, The Unbreakable Orphan, detailing his experiences growing up without a family.
“I wrote the book for other orphans who may have lost hope,” Nino said. “I struggled with drug addiction, gangs, violence, and feelings of unworthiness and being unwanted. Perseverance and persistence got me through it. I hope my story inspires others to overcome obstacles and embrace their potential.”
As he prepares for the next step on his educational journey at NAU, Nino is grateful he tested the waters by taking the initial Rio class.
“It absolutely changed my life in so many ways,” Nino said. “I truly believe that Rio Salado gave me the tools and skills to have the confidence to start my business and even write a book.”