LULAC Legends Program: Honoring the Legacy of Extraordinary Leaders

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The LULAC Legends Program, a special initiative designed to acknowledge and celebrate the exceptional contributions of LULAC members who have played a vital role in shaping and sustaining our organization in El Paso throughout its remarkable 91 years of existence. As we approach the momentous milestone of LULAC's 100th anniversary in 2029, we dedicate February as the annual time to honor and recognize these extraordinary individuals.

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LULAC, founded in 1929, established a presence in El Paso just three years later in 1932. Now, as we embark on our journey towards the centennial commemoration, we proudly introduce the LULAC Legends Program as a testament to the enduring spirit and dedication of our members. It is an opportunity to pay tribute to their unwavering commitment to our organization and its mission.

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Each year, our organizing committee will carefully select three to four remarkable LULAC members who have made indelible contributions. While many will be honored posthumously, representing LULAC members from the 1930s to 2000, we will ensure that at least one living individual is recognized annually as well. The LULAC Legends Program serves as an esteemed platform to commemorate their exceptional dedication and tireless efforts.

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In our inaugural LULAC Legends Program, we proudly recognized outstanding El Pasoans who were elected as National LULAC Presidents. These esteemed individuals have left an indelible mark on our organization and have been instrumental in shaping its course. The honorees for this year's program included:

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1. Frank J. Galvan, Jr. – National President in 1936

2. Modesto A. Gomez – National President in 1943

3. William Flores – National President in 1944

4. Albert Armendariz – National President in 1953

5. Paul Andow – National President in 1963

6. Belen Robles – National President from 1994 to 1998

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These exemplary leaders have guided LULAC through significant milestones, and their visionary leadership has paved the way for progress and advocacy. Through the LULAC Legends Program, we pay tribute to their exceptional contributions, perpetuating their legacy and inspiring future generations of leaders.

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As we move forward, the LULAC Legends Program will continue to honor and recognize LULAC members who have left an indelible mark on our organization. Join us as we celebrate their profound impact and empower a new generation of leaders to carry forward the mission and values of LULAC. Together, we will shape a brighter future for our community and beyond.

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The first LULAC Legends Program took place at the El Paso Community College Board of Trustees meeting room on February 24, 2024.

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Program Description 

The 2024 program honored five exceptional individuals posthumously, along with Ms. Belen Robles, who was highlighted for her unprecedented contribution as the first woman elected National LULAC President. Ms. Robles has also received numerous awards and honors, including recognition from the El Paso Women’s Hall of Fame, the Chamizal Medallion presented by President Lyndon Johnson, honors from President Bill Clinton, the El Paso Conquistador Award, and the McDonald's Triunfador Award.

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This year's program, titled "LULAC Legends and LULAC Reunion," not only honored our exceptional leaders but also served as an invitation to past members of LULAC, previous recipients of LULAC scholarships, members of Jr. LULAC organization, former Fiesta de las Flores participants, members from other LULAC Councils, and the public.

 

Admission tickets for this prestigious event was $25. Stay tuned for information about the 2025 LULAC Legends Program that will occur in February 2025.

 

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