Estela Ortega to receive 2009 Latino Heritage Award
Ortega to be honored at Latino Heritage Celebration on Saturday

SEATTLE – Mayor Greg Nickels and the city of Seattle Latino City Employees organization announced today Estela Ortega is the recipient of the 2009 Latino Heritage Award.  Ortega will receive the award during the Latino Heritage Celebration (Acrobat PDF) on Saturday, Oct. 3, at the Seattle Aquarium. The event begins at 8 p.m.

Ortega is the executive director of El Centro de la Raza and was one of its founders in 1972. She served as a volunteer for El Centro’s first seven years. She has worked in all facets of the organization, including organizational management, community building, leadership, political advocacy and strategy formation and implementation. In July, Ortega became El Centro’s executive director, managing and overseeing its $5.3 million operating budget.  

"Ms. Ortega has effectively and unselfishly served the Seattle community for more than 36 years," said State Rep. Phyllis Gutierrez Kenney, who nominated Ortega for the award.  "She has done so with an exceptional dedication and desire to improve the conditions of not only the Latino community, but that of all people in our community. Through her work, Estela has made Seattle a better place to live."

Ortega has been recognized for her leadership by several agencies in the community, including Sea-Mar, the Minority Executive Directors Coalition, and Big Sisters. She participates on numerous boards and committees, addressing primarily human services, economic development and community needs.

The Latino Heritage Award recognizes an individual who has made significant contributions to the Seattle Latino community by displaying leadership, initiative, creativity and dedication. Through their contributions, award recipients inspire others to be involved in the Latino community and make a difference.

Latino City Employees (LCE) is a voluntary organization of city of Seattle employees, and encourages professional excellence, promotes education within the Latino community, and supports cultural diversity in Seattle.

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Office of the Mayor