“Representation matters deeply, especially in education and media, where visibility impacts self-worth, ambition and societal perception,” said Enrique Murillo Jr., executive director of Latino Education & Advocacy Days (LEAD). "If we don't tell our own stories, others will. … And they may not get it right. Chances are they won’t get it right.”
Raisa Alvarado, assistant professor of communication and media, has been honored with two 2025 National Communication Association awards recognizing her excellence in teaching and social justice advocacy.
The summit theme and program highlights the urgency and impact of authentic Latino representation. Free and open to the public, LEAD Summit XIV will take place from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Oct. 3 at the Santos Manuel Student Union South Events Center at CSUSB.
Michelle Lorimer and Michael Karp (history), Mike Stull (entrepreneurship), Enrique Murillo Jr. (education), Kevin Grisham (global studies) and Brian Levin (criminal justice, emeritus) were mentioned in recent news coverage.
Henry “HEN GEE” Garcia, an American rapper, producer and cultural advocate, will be the featured morning speaker, and Willie Garcia, better known as “Little Willie G” and the “Godfather of Brown-Eyed Soul,” will present the afternoon keynote address.
After an injury cut short his dream to be a Major League Baseball player, Gordon Amerson found fulfillment in a career in education. CSUSB, he says, “was foundational to my success.”
An article on fossils sold to private collections cowritten Stuart Sumida (biology) was translated for the Brazilian edition of The Conversation. Published were research studies by Sishi Wu (criminal justice), Yasemin Dildar (economics), Fabian Borges (political science), Yui Li (accounting and finance), Jing Zhang (management), Miranda McIntyre (psychology), Gölge Seferoğlu (education) and Montgomey Van Wart (public administration).
"Singer José Feliciano and artist Ignacio Gómez are more than honorees; they are cultural trailblazers and mentors whose artistry, advocacy, and unwavering commitment have empowered generations,” said Enrique Murillo, Jr., LEAD executive director.
The university hosted 1,800 people during the two-day conference for educators of the San Bernardino City Unified School District in preparation for the district’s upcoming school year, which begins Aug. 4.