Lorenzo Espinal, a proud member of West Haven High School’s Class of 2020, developed a strong foundation through his time at WHHS, both on the baseball field and in the classroom. From baseball to academics, Lorenzo’s journey has been guided by the moments that mattered and the people who encouraged him along the way. He attended the University of New Haven, earning a degree in Criminal Justice Investigative Services in 2024, which helped prepare him for the next chapter in his career. Lorenzo also makes it a priority to give back whenever he can, whether that is helping coach a local baseball team or volunteering in his community.
Reflecting on his time at WHHS, Lorenzo is quick to acknowledge the educators and mentors who made a lasting impact. “There were plenty of faculty at WHHS who shaped me,” he shared. “Coach John Ascenzia and Coach Ron Luneau helped me mature and grow as a person. Mrs. McCauley, Mrs. Porto, and Mr. Quoka pushed me to do better, whether it was on an assignment or in giving effort. Mrs. Lynch and Mrs. Jones taught me what it means to be kind toward others. Baseball also left a lasting impact. It gave me structure and discipline, from strength and conditioning with Coach Unger to playing with Coach Hume. Those experiences kept me level-headed and instilled habits I carry with me to this day.”
When offering advice to current students, Lorenzo encourages self-reflection and personal growth. “Cherish your time being young and being around your teachers and classmates,” he said. “Whether you’re heading to college or pursuing another path, make choices based on what’s best for you, not what others are doing. Comparison is the thief of joy.”
If he could speak to his high school self, Lorenzo knows exactly what he would say. “There’s a lot more to life than baseball. Enjoy the games and the time with your friends and family. Those are the moments that truly matter.”
Today, Lorenzo is preparing to begin a career in federal law enforcement, attending the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC) as a recruit for a federal agency. “I found myself in this field because of my passion for civil service,” he explained. “Being there for someone at their lowest point and helping resolve a situation is a feeling that has always resonated with me. My interest grew through high school, from the Crime and Punishment cohort courses to an internship at the West Haven Police Department, and continued throughout college.”
Lorenzo tries to live by a simple principle each day. “Do your best, help others, and stay true to yourself,” he said. He knows that no one has all the answers and that life does not come with guarantees. By focusing on these three actions, he believes you give yourself the best chance to grow, make a positive impact, and navigate challenges with confidence. It is a guiding principle that shapes the way he approaches his career, his community involvement, and the decisions he makes every day.