Metro State has been selected the recipient of the 2008 Spirit of Tlatelolco Award from Escuela Tlatelolco, a community-based K-12 school in North Denver that was just named one of Denver’s top schools by 5280 magazine.

Nita Gonzales, president and CEO of Escuela Tlatelolco, said that for 25 of its 38 years of existence, the school has been presenting the Spirit of Tlatelolco award to institutions and individuals who champion crucial reform in the area of community and empowerment opportunities and social justice for Denver’s Chicano/Mexican/Latino community.

“This award recognizes people who make a stand for justice, even against incredible odds,” Gonzales said. “We appreciate Metro State, and the fact that it has sometimes stood up, against odds,” for Latinos. Gonzales also cited the diversity of Metro State’s student body and faculty commitment to diversity as considerations for the award.

In its notification letter, the award selection committee wrote: “Your selection is our humble way of recognizing those whose time, talents, integrity and dedication have enriched the quality of life, not only of our community, but also the Colorado community.

The College will receive the award at the 2008 Spirit of Tlatelolco Awards Luncheon on Oct. 17 at the Arvada Center.