CBU honored at White House

Work to help Latino students recognized

Christian Brothers University was honored at the White House on Thursday for its efforts to help Latino students succeed.

The private, Catholic college in Memphis was one of nearly 150 public and private sector organizations recognized by President Barack Obama at a reception for Hispanic Heritage Month that also marked the 25th anniversary of the White House Initiative on Educational Excellence for Hispanics.

Christian Brothers was honored for its Latino Student Success Program, which provides financial support and other assistance to Latino students. In July, during a visit from White House officials, CBU president John Smarrelli announced the school will donate $12 million over seven years to continue the program.

As part of the program, several Latino students founded a student-run organization called Hola CBU to meet the needs of Latino students in the college community and to further cultural awareness of Hispanic heritage. The organization has more than 80 members and has plans to expand its outreach to the wider Memphis community. The university also partnered with Latino Memphis, which assists Hispanics on issues of health, education and justice.

“CBU is extremely honored to be recognized for this program, particularly as it is so exemplary of our core mission and values,” said university’s president, John Smarrelli.