SXU Holds Estrellas de Oro Latinx Achievement Awards
Saint Xavier University (SXU) recently held the annual Latinx Achievement Awards, Estrellas de Oro (Gold Stars), on October 11 to honor outstanding Latinx students, faculty and staff for their efforts in academia and leadership.
"Estrellas de Oro is one of my favorite events, as it highlights the achievements of our students and staff in such a special way. Families of the nominees are invited as well, and seeing the pride on their faces when their students are honored is absolutely priceless. The students' speeches always make me very emotional, as they all talk about gratitude and deep love for their families, culture, and SXU. We are very lucky at SXU to have such amazing students with so many wonderful gifts!" said Imelda Macías, assistant vice president of Inclusive Excellence and HSI Initiatives.
The Outstanding Undergraduate Student Awards are given to students who have excelled academically and demonstrated endurance at Saint Xavier.
Outstanding First-Year: Daisy Leonides
Outstanding Sophomore: Marco Gonzalez
Outstanding Junior: Arlene Silva
Outstanding Senior: Vanessa Serna
The Outstanding Graduate Award was given to Maria Castillo and recognizes a graduate student who has demonstrated exceptional involvement within their organization, campus and the community.
The Outstanding Service Award recognizes a student who demonstrates a spirit of service to SXU and their community. The award was given to Anahi Hernandez.
The Outstanding Staff Award was given to Isaac Torres and recognizes a staff member who advocates, supports and instills values in SXU students.
The Outstanding Student Leader Award recognizes a student who demonstrates the spirit of service to SXU and their community and exhibits outstanding leadership and perseverance. The award was given to Evelyn Martinez.
The Lourdes Villagomez Award, recognizing a student who demonstrates excellence in creativity and the arts, was presented to Jacquelyn Santana.
"Estrellas de Oro highlighted everything I love about Saint Xavier. This community is filled with care, passion and love. Our keynote speaker, Vanessa Serna, moved me to tears with her heartfelt speech, expressing gratitude to her family and acknowledging the staff and faculty who have supported her on her journey. I'm deeply touched by the impact we can have on our students and grateful for the opportunity to celebrate them. Thank you so much to Student Life and the Office of Inclusive Excellence for the care and effort they put into this event," said Karen Salgado, multicultural specialist.
Congratulations to the incredible recipients of the 2024 Estrellas de Oro SXU Latinx Achievement Awards, whose consistent contributions to the SXU community help to continue a tradition of University excellence.