Raza Excellence

The Raza Excellence Outstanding Student Award is given annually to celebrate and honor the accomplishments of distinguished graduating students who have been a involved with El Centro and their community. The recipients of this award are champions in the areas of Leadership, educational achievement, and community/ Campus involvement. Raza Excellence Awardees will be honored at UNM’s Annual Recognition Reception on April 24th at 6:00 PM.

Eligibility Criteria:

  • Within one semester of graduating
  • Enrolled as UNM undergraduate, graduate or professional student 
  • Participated in campus and community organizations 
  • Proven leadership in your community 
  • Academic achievments and accomplishments 

Required Documents:

  1. Personal Statement 
  2. Recommendation letter
  3. Unofficial Transcripts
  4. Resume or CV

Personal Statment

Attatch a short (2pg max, double spaced) personal statement answering the following questions:

  • How are you a champion and agent of change in your community?
  • How are you paving the way for future students with similar background?
  • How do you intend to give back to your community once you graduate?
  • Have you overcome any obstacles in obtaining your education, if so, how?

Recommendation Letter

Please ensure that recommendation letter is emailed to Rodolfo Becerril at rdbecerril@unm.edu on Thursday, March 26th.

Recommenders must highlight how the nominee exemplifies excellence in the following areas and must not exceed two double-spaced pages.

  • Resiliancy - Describe the nominee’s outstanding academic achievements while overcoming significant challenges during their time at UNM (e.g., financial hardships, language barriers, single parenthood, etc.).
  • Community Impact – Explain how the nominee has been a champion for New Mexico’s communities, particularly within their community. How has their work contributed to meaningful change?
  • Leadership – Illustrate how the nominee is paving the way for future students. Do they demonstrate a clear commitment to continued leadership within their community?
  • Scholarship – Highlight the nominee’s academic excellence and dedication to maintaining strong academic performance at UNM.

Submission Deadline: Thursday, March 26th at 5:00 PM, if you have any questions, please contact Rodolfo D. Becerril at rdbecerril@unm.edu