Cal State San Bernardino alumna Leticia Herrera’s inspiring journey took center stage in the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History on May 15 in Washington, D.C. Her 2019 graduation cap and stole are prominently featured in the Molina Family Latino Gallery’s inaugural exhibit, “¡Presente! A Latino History of the United States,” which was opened and is operated by the National Museum of the American Latino.

“Deeply honored to have my 2019 graduation cap and stole displayed at the Molina Family Latino Gallery’s first-ever exhibit, ‘¡Presente! A Latino History of the United States,’ which tells U.S. history from the perspectives of the diverse Latinos who lived it,” said Herrera. “This moment isn’t just about personal achievement; it’s a proud representation of our community and immigrants’ invaluable contributions.”

CSUSB alumna Leticia Herrera’s 2019 graduation cap and stole are prominently featured in the inaugural exhibit, ¡Presente! A Latino History of the United States at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Latino.
CSUSB alumna Leticia Herrera’s 2019 graduation cap and stole are prominently featured in the inaugural exhibit, ¡Presente! A Latino History of the United States at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Latino.

‘¡Presente!’ offers a fresh perspective on U.S. history through the eyes of diverse Latinos. It uncovers hidden stories, connects visitors to Latino culture, and emphasizes the dynamic exchange between related but distinct communities under the Latino identity.

David Coronado, assistant director of communications and marketing for the Smithsonian's National Museum of the American Latino, explained that Herrera’s cap and stole are part of a rotating series of objects in the “Immigration Stories” section.

“This [exhibit] illustrates one of the most important chapters of contemporary U.S. history – how America makes sense of immigration,” said Coronado. “The personal stories of DREAMERs help visitors understand U.S. immigration policy in a relatable way. The cap and stole are customized with art, writing, and symbols that add information about the cultural backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives of DREAMERs (such as including the Greek letters of a Latina sorority). The cap and stole communicate the hopes and perseverance of DREAMERS; these objects are optimistic, forward-looking and active.”

Herrera, a passionate advocate for immigrant rights and educational equity, earned her bachelor’s degree in sociology from CSUSB’s College of Social and Behavioral Sciences in 2019. She continued her education, obtaining a master’s degree in public administration from CSUSB’s Jack H. Brown College of Business and Public Administration in 2022. Throughout her academic career, Herrera demonstrated unwavering commitment to social justice, particularly in the realms of immigration and education.

Leticia Herrera at her 2019 graduation with CSUSB President Tomás D. Morales.
Leticia Herrera at her 2019 graduation with CSUSB President Tomás D. Morales.

During her undergraduate years, Herrera served as vice president of the Undocumented Club at CSUSB, advocating for increased resources for non-citizen students. She worked at the Undocumented Student Success Center, guiding current and prospective students and their families. Herrera was also an active member of Lambda Theta Alpha Latin Sorority Inc. and collaborated with community organizations such as Fuerza Migrante and the Council of Mexican Federations in North America.

Herrera's passion and activism were recognized throughout her educational journey. Her dedication caught the attention of lawmakers, leading her to speak at a news conference hosted by U.S. Rep. Pete Aguilar (D-San Bernardino) to address the USA Act bill. In 2018, Herrera was honored as a distinguished guest at the State of the Union address, advocating for legislative action to support DACA recipients and non-citizens.

As the keynote speaker at her Latino graduation in 2019, Herrera spoke of her personal journey at CSUSB. She shared that the university provided crucial support from faculty, staff, and a strong peer network, helping her navigate the educational system.

Herrera was honored once again in 2021 as one of 13 alumni and students recognized at the fifth annual 30 Under 30 Awards Ceremony by state Assemblymember Eloise Gomez-Reyes (D-San Bernardino).

Today, Herrera serves as an educator in San Bernardino County, empowering her community by providing resources and support to individuals striving for educational success.

Of her contribution to the Smithsonian exhibit, Coronado said, “Leticia Herrera’s story of determination, achievement and civic contribution reminds visitors that all of us can make history.”