L.A.S. Academic Excellence Award 2026

This award honors students minoring in Latin American and Latinx Studies who have demonstrated academic excellence in the Latin American & Latinx Studies minor at Eastern Illinois University. Applicants for the award must provide both a written statement of no more than one page describing why he or she is deserving of the award and a copy of a class project (essay, research paper or other creative, scholarly work) that illustrates significant achievement in LAS course work (Submissions may be in English or Spanish).

Awards will be given annually and in varying amounts depending on funds available for distribution.  Recipients may present their essays or creative works in the Spring LAS reception.

Materials should be submitted electronically, in Microsoft Word format, to Dr. Carlos Amaya, ccamaya@eiu.edu by Friday March 24, 2026.

Award for Leadership in Latin American & Latinx Studies 2026

This award will be presented to the student(s) minoring in Latin American and Latinx Studies of any identity with outstanding preparation and advocacy for issues related to Latin America or Latinx issues in the United States. Strong candidates for this award may:

• have initiative and reliability
• effectively collaborate across units on and off campus
• communicate in an open and respectful manner with people from a variety of backgrounds
• model collaboration and consensus-building
• advocate for refugee and migrant communities in the U.S.
• exhibit anti-racist, ethical behavior
• maintain a record of professionalism, particularly in issues related to diversity, equity, and inclusion

Students apply for this award by sending a résumé or CV with relevant activities (no length limitations) and a 250-300 word explanation of their qualifications for the award. Award will be given annually and in varying amounts depending on funds available for distribution. 

Please email application documents to Dr. Carlos Amaya, ccamaya@eiu.edu by Tuesday, March 24th,  2026 .