SACRAMENTO (May 6, 2025) — The Chicano Latino Youth Leadership Project (CLYLP) announced today that Executive Director Dr. Luisa Ortega was honored at the 23rd Annual Latino Spirit Awards by the California Latino Legislative Caucus. This prestigious recognition celebrates influential Latinos who have made significant contributions to their communities and fields. Dr. Ortega received her award during a ceremony on Monday, May 5, 2025, at the California State Capitol. 

“I am deeply honored to receive this recognition from the California Latino Legislative Caucus alongside such incredible leaders who have paved the way for our community,” said Dr. Ortega. “This award is not just a personal milestone but a testament to the collective work of the Chicano Latino Youth Leadership Project and the thousands of young leaders we have empowered over the years. At CLYLP, we believe in the transformative power of education, mentorship, and civic engagement to uplift our communities. This honor reaffirms our commitment to ensuring that Latino youth continue to have access to opportunities that will help them thrive as the future leaders of California.” 

The Latino Spirit Awards, established in 2002, recognize Latino trailblazers in various fields, including education, arts, public service, and business. Past honorees include iconic figures such as Rita Moreno, Luis Valdez, Dolores Huerta, and Isabel Allende.

“As the Executive Director of CLYLP, an institution that has an outstanding legacy of preparing hundreds of youths to lead and that has instilled in them a deep commitment to community service, Dr. Ortega models the spirit of this prestigious award, ” said Senator Lena Gonzalez (D-Long Beach), Chair of the California Latino Legislative Caucus. “This recognition places Dr. Ortega among an esteemed group of leaders who have made a profound impact on the Latino community.”  

From her early roles supporting marginalized communities in San Diego and Los Angeles to her impactful leadership at CLYLP, Dr. Ortega has been a driving force in creating pathways to success for Latino youth. As the Executive Director of CLYLP, Dr. Ortega has expanded opportunities for young leaders across California, ensuring that historically underrepresented communities have the resources and mentorship to thrive in higher education, professional careers, and public service. Her work has led to the expansion of culturally responsive programming, leadership development initiatives, and increased access to higher education for students across the state.

“Dr. Ortega’s leadership has been instrumental in shaping the next generation of Latino leaders,” said Marilyn Limon, Chair of the CLYLP Board of Directors. “As a CLYLP alumni, she’s modeled what it means to be of service and has carried the impactful lessons instilled through CLYLP’s youth programs throughout her career. The CLYLP family celebrates this incredible honor and looks forward to continuing Dr. Ortega’s mission of empowering the next generation of Latino leaders.”

For more information on CLYLP and its programs, please visit www.clylp.org. 

About CLYLP 

Founded in 1982, the Chicano Latino Youth Leadership Project (CLYLP) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to developing California’s future Latino leaders. Through leadership conferences, mentorship programs, and civic engagement initiatives, CLYLP provides high school students with the tools and support to succeed in higher education, careers, and public service.