Today marked a significant moment at The University of Texas at El Paso as the Diana Natalicio Institute for Hispanic Student Success hosted the Diana Natalicio Impact and Legacy Celebration. This full-day event is a tribute to the former UTEP president's unwavering commitment to education and her particular focus on the success of Hispanic students.
UTEP President Heather Wilson, in a statement given to UTEP Newsfeed, highlighted Natalicio's vision and generosity, which includes a considerable $12.7 million from Natalicio's estate. An open house took place in the newly renovated space of the institute situated on the 9th floor of the Education Building, inviting the community to discover the facility's fresh look and learn more about its mission. The institute, Wilson says, aims to "continue expanding opportunity for the students who need it most."
The institute bears Diana Natalicio's name, a woman who led UTEP for 31 years and drew the blueprint for its development into an R1 research institution. The executive director of the institute, Anne-Marie Núñez, Ph.D., stated that the institute's founding in 2021 was enabled through a $1 million gift from The University of Texas System Board of Regents, and is supported heavily by Natalicio's transformative estate gift.
Natalicio’s brother, Bill Siedhoff, expressed his lack of surprise at his sister's enormous contribution to the institute. "Success for all students was Diana's passion and driving force in her life's work," Siedhoff told UTEP Newsfeed. He shared reflections of Diana's deep connections with the local community and her dedication to seeing UTEP flourish, enhancing education accessibility and consequent opportunities for student success.
