Nuestra Historia

The Chicano Latino Resource Center was established in 1995 as a response to the educational needs of Chican@ Latin@ students at the University of California, Santa Cruz. Better known as "EL CENTRO" by students and staff, the Center serves as a hub of organized activity and resources that support student transition, retention, graduation and academic advancement. El Centro has had a great legacy of directors, Dr. Larry Trujillo and Rosalee Cabrera, both now retired. Our current director Dr. Judith Estrada was mentored by both of them.

Through campus and community partnerships the mission of EL CENTRO is to promote a critical understanding of Chican@s and Latin@s within the United States and internationally. We accomplish this mission by offering workshops as well as an extensive programming calendar. Our efforts promote cultural affirmation, social justice values and community service. Students attending our activities gain insight into cultural dynamics, social and political processes and the historical significance of the contributions that Chicana/os and Latina/os have made to the U.S and to the broader world community.

EL CENTRO offers a comfortable space for students who are eager to learn more about campus resources, Chican@ Latin@ student organizations, faculty and staff connections, and about opportunities for campus involvement. Additionally, integrated into all programming are efforts that raise awareness of the social, political, economic, historical, and cultural realities of Chicano and Latino populations.