Jhonnatan Chinchilla

Graduated Sentinel Gunny Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps
Bachelor of Finance/Master of Taxation, University of San Diego

Immigrant, Veteran, Cancer Survivor, Single Father, and now a College Graduate.
Sentinel Jhonnatan “Johnny” Chinchilla immigrated to the United States from Guatemala when he was six years old. He enlisted in the Marine Corps following his high school graduation. After four deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan, the severe back injuries sustained during his active duty resulted in his honorable discharge. His struggles, however, were far from over.

After being diagnosed with testicular cancer, this single father fought the battle of his life. He fought for himself and for his daughter.

Once in remission, he decided to return to school with Sentinels of Freedom standing proudly by his side. Thanks to the Newman’s Own Foundation Grant, SOF was able to help Johnny achieve his dream. The housing and living subsidies and financial and personal mentoring provided to Johnny enabled him to focus on his schoolwork and his family.

During his time at the University of San Diego, he served as the President of the Veterans Student Organization and later as the Finance Chair of the USD Associated Student Body. Volunteering and giving back to his fellow veterans and students come naturally to Johnny.
Johnny graduated from USD with an Accounting degree and a minor in Supply Chain Management. Johnny was honored with multiple academic awards, but by far the most meaningful was a special award created just for him by USD: The Jhonnatan Chinchilla Perseverance Award!

This first-generation college graduate continued his education at USD in their master’s accounting program, with a letter of recommendation written by the university’s president himself. Jhonny graduated with his Master of Science in Taxation in 2019 where he then worked for several years at EY in global compliance and reporting before accepting a position with Deloitte in their blockchain and cryptocurrency department where he currently works.

“The support I have received from {SOF} has been magnificent. I credit a lot of my success and confidence to SOF. My family and I are forever grateful for your amazing contribution and support.” – Johnny Chinchilla