Excelencia in Education is having a quinceañera. Just as a girl celebrating her 15th birthday gets to reflect on and remember her first 15 years, it is important to mark Excelencia’s milestone by doing the same. I have been a supporter, friend, and admirer of Excelencia and its co-founders Sarita Brown and Deborah Santiago, for more than a decade. The national conversation regarding Latino student success has changed because of their work.
BEFORE the imperative to ensure more Latinos achieved a higher education was broadly understood, there was Excelencia.
BEFORE most others recognized the importance of incorporating the voice of those served, there was Excelencia.
BEFORE many institutions of higher education were proud to be HSIs, there was Excelencia.
BEFORE we appreciated the power of data to identify examples of success, there was Excelencia.
BEFORE there was a multifaceted approach to compel policy makers and institutions of higher education to embrace the potential of Latino youth, there was Excelencia.
It began with two committed, accomplished, passionate women—Sarita and Deborah—who together with their team, raised this 15 year old we know as Excelencia in Education. That’s a worthy accomplishment, but Sarita and Deborah are not calling it done—there is more work to do!
Given the largest and fastest growing student population in the country is Latino, now, more than ever we need Excelencia. The opportunity to prepare the next generation of civic and academic leaders, many of whom must be Latino, is before us.
Will you join me in wishing Excelencia in Education a happy 15th birthday by investing in their future impact? A gift of any size will show your appreciation for what they’ve accomplished and demonstrate your support for Excelencia’s work as they continue.
Your tax-deductible donation will keep Excelencia going strong for more Latino students to enroll in higher education, graduate, and contribute to the workforce and civic leadership.
¡Feliz cumpleaños, Excelencia in Education!
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