15 Who Helped Excelencia Reach 15

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Since its inception in 2004, Excelencia has informed, organized, and compelled changes to advance Latino student success at colleges and universities. In the process this Latina-led organization created a network of trendsetting professionals and became the leading information source on the current status of Latino students and their needs and strengths. Excelencia is now an established authority in this field with a reputation as a transformative, national leader and innovator.

Throughout 2019, the organization observed its first 15 years of service and success and paid homage to its roots. Considering supporters who helped the organization’s growth from infancy to the present, the cofounders chose 15 to mark each year the organization has served the community and the country. They are the 15 who helped Excelencia reach 15 - 15 vital supporters who helped us advance to our current role as a transformative leader in higher education.

To pay tribute Excelencia engaged nationally recognized artist, Verónica Castillo, a National Endowment of the Arts National Heritage Fellow, to create 15 art pieces that evoke the mission and culture of the organization in the form of hearts. To see additional symbolic artwork created by Castillo for Excelencia, view Excelencia's Tree of Life.

Meet leaders who played a vital role in the first 15 years of Excelencia that laid the groundwork for future efforts. Excelencia is grateful for their contributions and commitment to our mission to accelerate Latino student success in higher education.