During Hispanic Heritage Month, observed annually from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15, Case Western Reserve University received the 2026 Fiesta of Hope Partner Award from Esperanza.
The award recognizes CWRU’s long-standing collaboration with Esperanza and its commitment to supporting student success through connections with community organizations across Cleveland. It also highlights more than six years of collaboration through Esperanza’s Advancing Leaders Program at CWRU, which provides students with opportunities for professional development, mentorship, leadership development and connections beyond the classroom.
Since the program launched at CWRU in 2020, more than 100 students have participated, gaining professional experiences and pursuing opportunities with organizations such as Google, Microsoft and other Fortune 500 companies. The collaboration has also contributed to more than $75,000 in scholarships for CWRU students.
Building on a longstanding partnership
CWRU’s relationship with Esperanza extends beyond the Advancing Leaders Program. Since 2016, more than 250 CWRU students have participated in Esperanza’s scholarship, talent development and leadership programs.
For more than 42 years, Esperanza has expanded educational and professional opportunities for students through programs focused on scholarships, college retention, workforce development and leadership. Its work with CWRU reflects the value of connecting students with resources, mentors and professional networks within the university and the broader Cleveland community.
The Fiesta of Hope recognition also provides an opportunity to celebrate the many community organizations and campus partners who contribute to creating a welcoming environment where students can find connection, encouragement, mentorship and pathways toward their goals.
“We are grateful for the opportunity to partner with organizations like Esperanza that share CWRU’s commitment to student success,” said Arlet Wright, associate vice president for student and family connections. “Our students benefit tremendously when the university and our community partners work together to create opportunities for them to learn, grow, build relationships, and see themselves as part of something bigger.”
As CWRU celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month, the Fiesta of Hope Partner Award serves as a reminder that student success is a shared endeavor and that strong university-community partnerships can help students not only persist toward graduation, but also develop the relationships, experiences, and confidence to thrive beyond CWRU.
