Founded in 1861, the University of Washington is one of the oldest state-supported institutions of higher education on the West Coast and is one of the preeminent research universities in the world.
Supporting education for generations
When the remarkable Ernest I. J. “Ernie” Aguilar passed away a few days before his 91st birthday in March 2010, he left behind an indelible legacy of achievement in community service that benefited all Washington citizens — particularly Latinos.
A decorated veteran of three wars, Aguilar was responsible for many firsts, including being the first Mexican-American to run for county office in Washington. He founded the Catholic Hispanic Ministry, the Washington State Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and the Toppenish Farm Workers’ Health Clinic. His efforts on behalf of U.S.-Mexican relations earned him Mexico’s highest civilian honor. And he was instrumental in creating the first-ever endowed Latino scholarship at the UW’s Foster School of Business.
There’s no doubt Aguilar’s memory will live on among the many people whose lives were touched by his tireless efforts and warm personality. And Vanessa Laughlin (MBA, 2007), the first of many recipients of the scholarship that bears his name, counts herself among them.
“I felt honored to be able to meet and engage with Ernie and his wife Tina,” said Laughlin, who now works as product manager in food innovation for Starbucks. “He was incredibly warm — a humble gentleman who never bragged about his accomplishments.
Giving Opportunity
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"Beyond the wonderful financial support afforded by the scholarship, I have immensely appreciated the recognition and support it also represents from Seattle’s Latino community. I grew up in a small town in Washington with very few Latinos, and have only felt an increasing engagement with the Seattle Latino community as a result of Ernie Aguilar and the scholarship award.
"Every summer my family and I enjoy attending the annual fund-raising auction that serves as a reunion of key Latino businesspeople, educators, politicians, community leaders, students and others. This fantastic event always reminds me of the greater group of people that will continue to help Ernie’s memory and goals live on — I’m proud and grateful to be considered part of this group as well.”