Julio Enríquez-Ornelas’s journey back to his alma mater, Wabash College, marks a full-circle moment in his life, one that intertwines his personal experiences, professional achievements, and commitment to empowering the Latino community.
Enríquez-Ornelas joined the staff of Wabash as the Director of Latino Partnerships and head of the newly established Wabash Latino Community Center (LCC).
Born in Zamora, Michoacán, Mexico, Enríquez-Ornelas (PhD) immigrated to the United States at the age of one. His early years were marked by instability and hardship as his mother navigated the challenges of being trafficked into the country and adjusting to a new life in California. Despite these adversities, Enríquez-Ornelas grew up with a strong sense of familial responsibility and cultural pride. His mother’s sacrifices instilled in him a deep appreciation for education as a pathway to opportunity — a sentiment that would later define his academic and professional pursuits.
As an undocumented student in Salinas, California, Enríquez-Ornelas faced significant barriers. His high school years were a turning point; after struggling academically, he decided to compete to enter his college of choice. While he didn’t land one of the coveted spots, his guidance counselor introduced him to Wabash College. At Wabash, he discovered a safe space where he could thrive academically while exploring his identity as both an American and a Mexican immigrant.
During his time at Wabash, Enríquez-Ornelas became deeply involved in campus life. He joined La Alianza: Unidos Por Sangre (UPS), the Latino student organization that fostered inclusivity and celebrated Latin American culture. He also embraced the liberal arts ethos, double majoring in English and Spanish while immersing himself in extracurricular activities aimed at bridging cultural gaps on campus. These experiences shaped his vision for creating spaces where diverse identities could coexist authentically.
After graduating in 2008, Enríquez-Ornelas pursued advanced degrees in Hispanic Literature and Culture at the University of California, Riverside, earning both a master’s degree and a Ph.D. His academic focus on Latin American literature and history reflected his commitment to understanding and amplifying Latino narratives. Over the next decade, he built an impressive career as an educator and scholar, teaching at Millikin University and serving as department chair for modern languages. He also contributed to initiatives like strategic planning committees and Latino student organizations, further solidifying his reputation as a leader in higher education.
Despite his professional success, Enríquez-Ornelas maintained a strong connection to Wabash College. He frequently visited the campus, reflecting on his undergraduate experience and engaging with current students through events like chapel talks. In 2022, he was invited back to speak with members of La Alianza — a moment that reignited his passion for fostering community at Wabash.
The establishment of the Wabash Latino Community Center presented an opportunity for Enríquez-Ornelas to return in a formal capacity. Funded by a Lilly Endowment Inc. grant, the center was envisioned as a vital hub for Latino students and community members in Crawfordsville, Indiana. When offered the role of Director of Latino Partnerships, Enríquez-Ornelas saw it as more than just a job — it was a chance to give back to the institution that had shaped him while addressing critical needs within the Latino community.
In his inaugural year leading the LCC, Enríquez-Ornelas has focused on cultivating partnerships that empower students and community members alike. Drawing from bell hooks’s definition of love — which emphasizes care, respect, trust, and open communication — he has worked tirelessly to create programs that reflect these values.
Enríquez-Ornelas’s vision for the LCC extends beyond campus boundaries; he aims to make it a trusted resource for Montgomery County residents by addressing issues like language access and youth development holistically. Collaborations with local organizations such as La Conexión and Crawfordsville Bands demonstrate his commitment to building equitable partnerships that benefit both students and community stakeholders.
Reflecting on his journey during an April 11 talk hosted by the League of Women Voters Lunch with the League event, Enríquez-Ornelas shared how his personal experiences inform his leadership philosophy at Wabash College. From grappling with homesickness as an undergraduate to navigating systemic barriers as an undocumented immigrant, he has learned the importance of resilience and authenticity in creating spaces where individuals can thrive.
Enríquez-Ornelas’s return to Wabash is not just about professional achievement; it is about fulfilling a promise he made to himself years ago — to ensure that future generations of Latino students feel seen, supported and empowered to succeed. Under his leadership, the Wabash Latino Community Center is poised to become a beacon of hope and opportunity for both campus and community members.
In many ways, Julio Enríquez-Ornelas embodies what it means to come full circle — not only returning home but transforming it into something greater than before.
The League of Women Voters, a non-partisan, multi-issue organization encourages informed and active participation in government, works to increase public understanding of major policy issues and influences public policy through education and advocacy. All men and women are invited to join the LWV where hands-on work to safeguard democracy leads to civic improvement. For information, visit the website www.lwvmontcoin.org or the League of Women Voters of Montgomery County, IN Facebook page.
