Cesar E. Chavez Leadership Institute establishes inaugural recognition celebration

The ASU Cesar E. Chavez Leadership Institute has grown up and come of age. “¡Viva CCLI!” is being established as an inaugural event that inspires recognition for the success of the 18-year program and acknowledges the positive impact made by CCLI alumni, ASU faculty and staff and community supporters.

“¡Viva CCLI!” will take place at 4:30 p.m., Nov. 8, at the Sun Angel Clubhouse at ASU Karsten Golf Course, 1125 E. Rio Salado Parkway, Tempe. Featured guests will include ASU President Michael Crow and Congressman Ed Pastor, who represents Arizona's 4th District.

"ASU’s Cesar Chavez Leadership Institute strives to foster academic and personal success, embrace diversity, and reinforce the value and importance of community service and civic engagement. It’s a shining example of ASU’s commitment to excellence, access and impact,” says Angela Creedon, assistant vice president in ASU's Office of Public Affairs Community Development.

The institute was an initiative established in 1995 by ASU and community leaders seeking to inspire and motivate high school students through the legacy of civil rights leader Cesar E. Chavez. The CCLI was the brainchild of Frank Hidalgo, former assistant vice president for Institutional Advancement at ASU, who saw the need to promote active engagement in extracurricular and community activities from local Hispanic high school students.

Each summer the CCLI invites select Arizona high school sophomores and juniors to attend ASU for a week to learn about higher education as a vehicle for success and servant leadership. The institute is available at no cost to participants, thanks to support from ASU and a handful of sponsors.

To date more than 800 Arizona high school students, including two of Cesar Chavez's granddaughters, have completed the CCLI program. Alumni have gone on to attend ASU and other distinguished universities followed by successful careers in law, medicine, public service, law enforcement and business.

Beyond the summer institute program, CCLI also provides the Devils in Training college preparation program, a CCLI Alumni Network mentorship and communications program, a Chavez Scholarship Program, and the ASU Hispanic celebration during commencement week.

For more information on the CCLI or “¡Viva CCLI!”, visit outreach.asu.edu/ccli/