Western Illinois University Political Science Professor and the founder and CEO of Western Illinois Dreamers, Julia Albarracín was honored earlier this month by Illinois Comptroller Susana A. Mendoza as part of a Hispanic Heritage Month celebration.
“It is an honor to celebrate these accomplishments and the difference they continue to make in communities across Illinois,” Mendoza said.
Albarracín was recognized for her work in higher education, as well as her efforts leading Western Illinois Dreamers, which supports immigrant families by providing free programs in social services, immigration law, education and mental health.
"My heritage has significantly shaped my understanding and empathy towards Latine individuals and others in vulnerable situations," Albarracín said. "My lived experiences inform my academic pursuits and community involvement, and inspire me to create change through research, mentorship, and social change."
Albarracín, who was appointed last year to the Illinois Commission on Discrimination and Hate Crimes (CDHC), also directs "Addressing Equity Gaps among Rural Students" and co-directs the WIU Global Citizens: Illinois International Scholars Initiative, both funded by the Department of Education. She received her law degree from the Universidad Nacional de
