Dr. Sean Ettinger, the Department of Latina/Latino Studies academic program coordinator, was honored with the 2026 Cathy Acevedo Faculty & Staff Award by La Casa Cultural Latina. The award recognizes faculty or staff who have shown extraordinary commitment to Latina/o students and the campus community. The award's namesake, Cathy Acevedo, was crucial in creating outreach and support programs for students of color at the University of Illinois.
"[Dr. Ettinger] has demonstrated deep commitment to student support and success, guiding and uplifting students with empathy, dedication, and genuine care. Through his work, he has helped create spaces where students feel seen, supported, and valued," said department chair Gilberto Rosas in his remarks presenting the award at the 2026 Latinx Congratulatory.
The person who nominated him for the award wrote praising his engagement with the campus community and the support he provides students to connect them with opportunities.
"Within Latina and Latino Studies, his presence has helped make the department a welcoming study space for all students and a place of academic excellence and support. It is through his own initiative of meeting alumni and networking that he continues to find opportunities for students to continue developing academically and professionally. This has led to countless connections for internships, job training, and engagement with research opportunities.”