LBJ School welcomes first Latino student organization

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Published:
November 1, 2021

Austin, TEXAS — Today, on Dia De Los Muertos, a collection of Latino voices announced the formation of Unidos — the LBJ School's first Latino organization. Unidos is proud to be sponsored by Dr. Angela Valenzuela, a professor in the Department of Educational Leadership and Policy at The University of Texas at Austin. The founding of this organization reflects a growing Latino population among the school's more than 300 students.

Unidos believes Latino students have unique perspectives and needs that should inform the school's culture and goals. As a student-run organization, Unidos will serve as a platform for student leaders to advocate for solutions that enable Latino students to thrive.

"Preparing students from a variety of backgrounds for leadership positions in public service is rooted in the LBJ School mission. To this end, Unidos is ensuring that the school continues to foster a diverse, equitable and inclusive learning space for tomorrow's public leaders." —Dr. Victoria DeFrancesco Soto

"For more than 50 years, the LBJ School has fostered a legacy of leadership, action and public service," said Dr. Victoria DeFrancesco Soto. "Preparing students from a variety of backgrounds for leadership positions in public service is rooted in the LBJ School mission. To this end, Unidos is ensuring that the school continues to foster a diverse, equitable and inclusive learning space for tomorrow's public leaders."

The beautiful Dia De Los Muertos altar constructed by members of Unidos

"Dia de los Muertos is an opportunity to celebrate our shared Latino heritage," said Luis Guerrero, a founding member of Unidos and first-year student at the LBJ School. "Through a ritual known as ofrenda, we remember and celebrate those who have passed by bringing objects that were dear to them. Our ofrenda today not only serves to honor our loved ones but also historical figures who paved the way for our community in Texas and beyond."

Over 50 students came together to form Unidos at the LBJ School and have earned the support of school faculty. Unidos members will work collaboratively with school leaders and other student organizations to improve the student experience and strengthen the school's commitment to attracting students of all backgrounds.

Membership in the group is open to all LBJ students. Currenty it is exclusive to LBJ, but its members are looking to collaborate with other Latino-led groups at UT.

The University of Texas at Austin has taken significant steps in recent years around our efforts to enroll and support our Hispanic students. These efforts led to two recent milestone achievements, as UT has earned Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI) status and the Seal of Excelencia.

For inquiries, email Unidos: unidosatlbj@gmail.com.

 

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