May 1, 2021
Javier Solorzano Parada is the recipient of the 2021 Outstanding Alumnx Award (OAA). He will be presented with the award virtually at IGR's 18th Annual Award Ceremony and Graduation Celebration. Javier has been previously featured on IGR's podcast DialogueUP!
Javier Solorzano Parada (he/him/his) is a two-time alumnus of the University of Michigan. He received his Bachelor of Arts in Secondary Education (2016) and Master of Arts in Higher Education (2018). Javier is a proud "Chilango" born and raised in Mexico City. Javier's journey as a former undocumented, first-generation, Latinx student has instilled in him a strong commitment to work for a more equitable campus for all. His educational and professional work highlights how he lives through the values of diversity, equity, and inclusion. He created outreach initiatives for underrepresented groups that transformed students to leaders with tangible programming skills. Through various initiatives, Javier has been able to mentor students through their navigation of the university and make meaning of their experience. Currently, Javier serves as Program Manager at the Office of Multi-Ethnic Student Affairs (MESA). At MESA, Javier has had the opportunity to lead, innovate, and strengthen multiple DEI initiatives including heritage months, welcome programs, large-scale events, and conferences. A passion of Javier is to provide direct support to students and organizations to enhance the student experience and leadership development. Javier has experienced the power of dialogue and is a product of continuous transformation from The Program on Intergroup Relations.