By Jessica Mendoza, Contributor

From the first time I met Ruby Murillo, I was struck by her caring and empowering personality. Murillo is the director of Latinx Student Services at Augsburg as well as advisor to Augsburg Latin America Students (ALAS). She has been very supportive of Latinx students on campus and has often stated that one of her biggest aspirations is to “create a space for Latinx students to thrive.” Murillo attended Iowa State University and later enrolled at Miami University for her Masters degree. She is a first generation college student of Mexican American heritage. This fall semester was Murillo’s first semester as the Latinx Director, and she fully embraced the role by being someone students could come to for guidance.

I have had the pleasure of getting to know Murillo as her Act Six mentee, and I can say that I am very grateful for our meetings. Murillo has shared her knowledge on how to navigate the hurdles college throws at students in the most effective manner. Her experience as a TRIO Student Support Services Advisor gives her great insight into how to work with students of all backgrounds. She is also a strong advocate for DACA or undocumented students for whom she seeks to provide resources and opportunities. Ruby is someone who is willing to work with students to achieve their goals and advocate for their success.

ALAS has been shaped by the hard work and dedication that Murillo has placed in the student group. From contacting Andres A. Parra, director of the documentary “Without Papers,” to have him participate in a panel to cooking pancakes for students during midterms, Murillo has gone above and beyond to enrich students’ university experience. Jhoseline Flores, the secretary of ALAS, says that “Ruby is very supportive, and she is always there when you need her. She always has snacks but most importantly she is a great role model and mentor.” Daniel Degollado, ALAS Vice President, also has high praise for Murillo. “Ruby has been the most helpful advisor I ever had. She understands what it is to be an undocumented student.” Degollado said, “She brings opportunities to me that best fit my necessities and requirements. I see her as a friend and not just as another staff. You can tell Ruby is dedicated and passionate about her job”.

Murillo is someone who truly cares about making a difference in students’ lives. She is flexible to what students want to talk about and able to give the support they need because she understands everyone has different skills and priorities. Augsburg is a better place because of people like Ruby who seek to strengthen its community.

This article first appeared in the Friday, January 19, 2018, Edition of The Echo.