Chancellor Suárez-Orozco Receives MIRA Coalition’s 2026 Community Champion Award
On Wednesday, May 20, Chancellor Marcelo Suárez-Orozco was honored at the Give Liberty a Hand event hosted by the Massachusetts Immigrant and Refugee Advocacy (MIRA) Coalition.
As this year continues to present significant challenges for immigrant communities, this recognition as the 2026 Community Champion honoree highlights UMass Boston’s longstanding commitment to immigrant rights and inclusion. An immigrant himself, Suárez-Orozco has been a consistent advocate for policies and practices that promote belonging.
"Tonight’s program notes that the award is being presented to me," said the chancellor. "I am, of course, appreciative and grateful for this recognition. But this is, in many ways, UMass Boston’s award.
"UMass Boston has long been on the front lines for immigrant-origin, refugee, and first-generation students, building goodwill and creating opportunities through our educational and academic programs."
This marks the 30th year of MIRA’s Give Liberty a Hand event, which celebrates collective progress, honors exceptional individuals, and raises vital support for immigrants across the Commonwealth. The honor places the chancellor alongside a distinguished group of previous recipients including: U.S. Senators Edward J. Markey and Elizabeth Warren, Governor Deval Patrick, and then Attorney General Maura Healey, among others.
About MIRA: The Massachusetts Immigrant and Refugee Advocacy Coalition is the largest coalition in New England that promotes the rights and integration of immigrants and refugees.