Leonard M. Baca Endowed Scholarship Fund (Pure Endowment)

Leonard M. Baca

Dr. Leonard M. Baca was a visionary leader in the field of Bilingual Special Education, dedicating nearly 40 years as Executive Director of the BUENO Center in 鶹ѰBoulder’s School of Education. He championed equity for multilingual learners, with and without disabilities, through groundbreaking research, innovative practices, and tireless advocacy. His work transformed thousands of lives and continues to inspire educators nationwide.
To honor his remarkable legacy, the Leonard M. Baca Endowed Scholarship Fund (Pure Endowment)was established to provide permanent scholarships for multilingual learners. This fund ensures that Dr. Baca’s commitment to justice and inclusion lives on for generations.
Dr. Baca’s career highlights include:
  • Securing over $100 millionin scholarships and grants for GED, BA, Master’s, and PhD programs through the BUENO Center.
  • Pioneering research in Bilingual Special Educationto meet the needs of bilingual children in special education.
  • Publishing 3 books and 116 professional worksthat guide educators in bilingual and cross-cultural special education.
  • Mentoring countless graduate students and emerging scholars.
“Through his professional work and personal character, Leonard Baca changed thousands of lives. Under his leadership, the BUENO Center allowed talented students with limited resources to access higher education and better lives.”
~Dr. Kathy Escamilla
How to Give
  • Donate Online (blue button below!)
  • Mail a Check:
    University of Colorado Foundation
    P.O. Box 17126
    Denver, CO 80217-9155
    Make payable to “鶹ѰFoundation” with “Leonard M. Baca Endowed Scholarship Fund” in the memo line

2022 Baca Scholarship Scholars

Haydee Colin, BA inCommunication and Ethnic Studies

"I chose ethnic studies for a major is because I inspire to help people, that is my life’s mission. The way to do that is to be able to understand anyone and everyone and learning about different cultures will allow me to support every individual in manner that dignifies their past."

Marithza Flores, BA in Integrative Physiology and Sociology

I chose integrative physiology as a major because I have always been interested in understanding more about how the human body works.

Andrea Martinez Reyes, BA inExploratory Studies and Art Practices

I chose my major at 鶹ѰBoulder because technology is an essential tool growing with us, I believe we are part of the generation who will make sure these tools are being used in the most helpful and efficient way to help one another.

Adolfo Sanchez Ortega, BA inEnvironmental Design, Architecture

I chose Environmental Design with an emphasis in Architecture because when I was younger I was talented at drawing. Also, my dad was a huge inspiration because he does construction and to a certain way I wanted to follow his footsteps in the construction industry but without breaking my back.