Laredo College President Received Ohtli Award
Minita Ramirez was honored by the Mexican government for her service to Mexican communities in Laredo.
Updated on Sept. 20, 2026 in Hispanic
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Laredo College President Minita Ramirez has received the 2026 Ohtli Award, the highest honor Mexico bestows upon individuals living abroad. The award recognizes her extensive career in education and leadership supporting Mexican and Mexican American communities.
Why it matters
The Ohtli Award serves to express gratitude toward those who have made significant contributions to the well-being and development of Mexican populations outside of the country. By honoring local leaders, the Mexican government reinforces cross-border ties and acknowledges the impact of educational service.
Laredo College currently supports 12,038 students and employs a staff of 600 people. Dr. Ramirez has dedicated four decades of service to the education sector.
The players
Minita Ramirez
She is the current president of Laredo College and a career educator with four decades of service.
Juan Carlos Mendoza Sánchez
He serves as the Consul General of Mexico in Laredo and presented the Ohtli Award.
Victor Treviño
He is the Mayor of Laredo who officially recognized Mexico's Independence Day in the city.
John Jairo Gómez
He is a Bishop who provided the invocation during the award ceremony.
The details
Consul General of Mexico Juan Carlos Mendoza Sánchez presented the award at the IBC Annex during local commemorations of Mexico's 216th Independence Day. The ceremony also featured an invocation by Bishop John Jairo Gómez and a proclamation by Laredo Mayor Victor Treviño.
Timeline
Tuesday, September 15, 2026: Minita Ramirez received the Ohtli Award.
September 15: Laredo annually commemorates Mexico's Independence Day.
1821-1824: Independent Mexico lived under an empire.
October 10, 1824: Guadalupe Victoria became the first president of Mexico.
Roadmap
The recognition of Dr. Ramirez follows the long-standing support provided by the IME Becas program for cross-border educational advancement. This honor highlights the ongoing integration of educational leadership into the diplomatic efforts between the United States and Mexico.
The award ceremony serves to deepen the connection between Laredo residents and regional Mexican leadership. This recognition may increase visibility for current student support initiatives like the IME Becas program at Laredo College.
The takeaway
The Ohtli Award serves as a bridge for cultural cooperation between Laredo and the Mexican government through the medium of higher education. Residents interested in regional advocacy can look to such honors as evidence of the continued focus on cross-border community development.
Further reading
For more information on local cultural developments, visit the Hispanic section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Laredo Morning Times.
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