At the annual Hispanic Gala and Awards in October, a big announcement was made. A renamed scholarship and new endowment fundraising partnership honoring Lupe Ramos-Montigny was introduced to honor her hard work and dedication in the field of education.

Grand Valley State University students Christopher Lopez and Jessica Solis received the scholarship at the annual Hispanic Gala. Both of these students were participants in Laker Familia, an orientation and support program for Latino students and their families.

“In short, I felt not only humbled but inspired by the entire experience,” Lopez said. “We have come so far over the years, but we still have so much farther to go. I know I will play a part in changing the world for Latinos and all people alike — the scholarship solidified that feeling for me.”

Lopez said the award puts in perspective how different the world is now from 50 years ago.

“Surrounded by so many Latinos that have overcome numerous adversities and continue to on an everyday basis is, to say the least, an almost surreal experience,” Lopez said. “It inspires you to change the world much like Lupe has done and continues to do for so many people. What I believe, in reference to the scholarship and the gala, is that the entire event is meant to portray — not only to the scholarship recipients but to the general public and all Latinos — one single phrase: Sí, se puede. Yes, we can. We all can be a part of the change.”

Solis also said the award was a great honor.

“I felt extremely honored to be receiving the Lupe Ramos-Montigny ‘Si Se Puede’ Legacy Scholarship Award,” Solis said. “The entire experience reminded me to be proud of where my family comes from and why I work hard in school. Lupe has not only inspired me to keep working hard, but to give back to the Latino community. I hope I can continue to make the community proud.”

Connie Dang, director of the GVSU Office of Multicultural Affairs, said she has worked on the Cesar Chavez Unity Committee with Ramos-Montigny for five years. In addition to hosting the Hispanic Gala and Awards, the committee sponsors the Cesar E. Chavez Social Justice March and the Cinco de Mayo Celebration.

“Today, in her retirement, Lupe still cultivates a harvest of civic engagement, cultural unity, gender equity and educational leadership,” Dang said.

Ramos-Montigny retired in 2008 after serving as a teacher and building principal for Grand Rapids Public Schools. She was elected to the State Board of Education in 2012, being the first Latina to hold an office in the Michigan Democratic Party. Ramos-Montigny also assisted in the establishment of the committee to honor César E. Chávez.

Donations can be made to the scholarship fund online at www.gvsu.edu/giving/luperamosmontigny.