The Cuban-American quarterback Fernando Mendoza, winner of the Heisman Trophy 2025, announced the launch of the Mendoza Family Fund in partnership with the National Multiple Sclerosis Society of the United States, and committed a personal donation of $500,000 to fund research on the disease at the University of Miami Health System and the Miller School of Medicine.
The announcement was made from New York, ahead of the NFL Draft 2026, where the Las Vegas Raiders selected him as the first overall pick of the event, held in Pittsburgh.
The foundation was created with a deeply personal purpose: Fernando's mother, Elsa Mendoza, lives with multiple sclerosis, and the family has been mobilizing resources for years to combat the disease.
The initiative also aims to unite fundraising efforts at the national level, involving partners, supporters, and communities to finance cutting-edge research, as well as programs and services designed to support families affected by the disease.
Mendoza is the first Cuban American to win the Heisman Trophy, a historic achievement that he reached by leading his team and defeating the University of Miami 27-21.
My mom is my light, she is my reason, declared Mendoza while presenting the fund, highlighting the family connection that drives this initiative.
He also stated, “It is an honor to launch the Mendoza Family Fund in partnership with the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. This is something personal for our family, and we are committed to making an impact in the fight against this disease.”
The foundation continues years of work by the Mendoza family in raising awareness and funds for multiple sclerosis, efforts that have successfully mobilized communities both within and outside the United States.
Those who wish to contribute or learn more about the project can do so at can do so at nationalmssociety.org/mendoza.
Filed under: