UC Riverside alum and staffer Arlene Cano Matute has won the 2023 “Latina of Influence” award — hosted by Hispanic Lifestyle, a broadcast media production. Honorees included seven recipients from across the United States, recognized for their leadership in the Latina/o/x community.
In a recent announcement, Hispanic Lifestyle wrote, “Through an asset-based and holistic approach, Dr. Cano Matute provides academic support services, culturally affirming programming, and strategic direction that validates minoritized students as holders and producers of knowledge, empowering Chicanx/Latinx scholars’ academic self-concept, social agency, and identity.”
Cano Matute was nominated by Jenniemarie Ramirez, a colleague with whom she served on a community non-profit board.
“I am grateful and honored to have been nominated and selected for the 10th Annual Latina of Influence Award,” said Cano Matute. “I am committed to empowering the future generation of scholars and advocates, who are driven to serve their communities with purpose, intention, and compassion. This dedication is a reflection of the unwavering love and support that has fueled my own journey, which began with Chicana/Latina mentors.”
Cano Matute’s UCR roots are deep as co-founder and co-chair of the campus’s Hispanic Serving Institution, or HSI Committee, and assistant director of Chicano Student Programs. She received all her degrees from UCR: B.A. in both Ethnic Studies and Political Science: Law and Society; an M.Ed. in Higher Education; and her Ph.D. in Higher Education, Administration, and Policy.
“We believe the time is right to amplify the advice and insights of Latinas who make a difference in our communities on a daily basis,” said Richard Sandoval, president of Hispanic Lifestyle. “We have experienced firsthand the impact an empowering story can have on an audience.”
This year’s recipients included community leaders, elected officials, business owners, and professionals in local communities. This is the 10th year the Latina of Influence award series has been celebrated and awardees were recognized at Hispanic Lifestyle’s Latina Conference 2023, which was held on Nov. 9 at Wilson Creek Winery, in Temecula, California.
To learn more about Arlene Cano Matute, visit csp.ucr.edu.