The work of Cleveland's nonprofit Esperanza Inc. and executive director Victor Ruiz '99 continues to gain praise, most recently winning recognition from
The White House Initiative on Educational Excellence for Hispanics. Ruiz says Esperanza, which is dedicated to the educational needs of the Hispanic community, is humbled by the White House recognition. "Esperanza is honored to be included in such a prestigious list of organizations that work tirelessly to improve the academic achievements of this country’s Hispanic communities."
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Victor Ruiz passes out bookbags at Esperanza's Back to School Event.
Photo courtesy: Esperanzainc.org
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Esperanza was highlighted among the White House Initiative's "
Bright Spots in Hispanic Education, one of 230 nationwide programs dedicated to Hispanic education listed.
According to a
Crain's Cleveland Business article, Esperanza, under Ruiz's leadership, has helped to raise the Hispanic graduation rate in Cleveland from 30% to 64.3%, more than doubling it within three years by 2014.
A
Freshwater Cleveland article added, "While the numbers are still below the national average, Esperanza and Ruiz continue forward, with a mission to only improve further."
Ruiz is also a 2014 Baldwin Wallace Alumni Merit Award winner.
