The Ohio Latino Affairs Commission selected The University of Toledo for its 2018 Governor’s Distinguished Hispanic Ohioan Award.

UT was chosen for the category of Nuestra Familia, or Our Family, which honors individuals or organizations that encourage the inclusion of Latinos in Ohio and are committed to making the state a welcoming place to all.

“We value and embrace our wonderfully diverse campus,” UT President Sharon L. Gaber said. “Diversity and inclusion are important to our success. In fact, it makes us stronger every day. Our investment and growth in Latino students, faculty and staff is important to who we are as a University, and we are honored to be recognized for our commitment.”

The award will be presented to Gaber Saturday, Oct. 27 at the 38^th annual Governor’s Distinguished Hispanic Ohioans Gala at Lorain Community College in Elyria.

“The honor recognizes organizations within the state of Ohio who perform service of exceptional benefit to Latino Ohioans,” Dr. Gregory A. Guzman, commissioner of the Ohio Commission on Hispanic and Latino Affairs, said in a letter to Gaber. “The receiving organizations and individuals are always of good character and community standing exhibiting exceptional leadership, which The University of Toledo has certainly done.”

“The University is proud of the good work that we are doing with the Latino community,” Dr. Michele Soliz, associate vice president for student success and inclusion in the Division of Student Affairs, said. “From medical missions to Spanish-speaking countries to focusing on the success of Latino students, we are committed to the betterment of our communities. We are humbled to be recognized for this prestigious and competitive award. We look forward to working collaboratively with community members and forging new partnerships.”