Nuestra Historia

The Chicanx Latinx Resource Center was established in 1995 as a response to the educational needs of Chicane and Latiné 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 activities 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 previous director Dr. Judith Estrada was mentored by both of them and served as Director for seven years. Dr. Estrada now serves as the Associate Vice Chancellor for the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. Our current Director, Xiomara López, returned to UC Santa Cruz in January 2022. She attended UCSC during her undergraduate career, where she also interned for El Centro. 

Through campus and community partnerships the mission of EL CENTRO is to promote a critical understanding of Chicane and Latiné communities within the United States and internationally. We accomplish this mission by offering workshops as well as an extensive programming calendar open to all students. 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 Chicane and Latiné communities 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, Chicane and Latiné 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 Chicane and Latiné populations.