DATE: Thursday, April 23rd, 2026
TIME: 4:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. ET
LOCATION: A.D. White House (Guerlac Room), Cornell University 29 East Ave, Ithaca, NY 14850
If you’d like to attend in-person, please register using the Registration button above.
Zoom Option Available (registration required via the Zoom link)

The Cornell Latino Alumni Association invites the Cornell community to gather for a Virtual Tribute honoring Professor Debra A. Castillo, Stephen H. Weiss Presidential Fellow, Hinchliff Professor of Hispanic Studies in the College of Arts & Sciences, and Professor in the Department of Comparative Studies.

Dr. Castillo was a distinguished scholar, mentor, and advocate whose work shaped generations of students and colleagues at Cornell University for forty years. This special event will celebrate her academic legacy, her unwavering support for Latinx and first-generation students, and the vibrant communities she helped build through scholarship, mentorship, and the arts. Through reflections from former students, alumni, faculty, and members of the Cornell community, the tribute will honor both her intellectual contributions and the deep personal impact she had on those who knew her.

During the tribute, participants will hear:

• Personal Tribute: Professor Castillo’s daughter, Dr. Melissa Castillo-Garsow, will share reflections on her mother’s life beyond academia, including the values, generosity, and dedication that shaped her work, her family, and the communities she supported.

• Fireside Conversation: Former students and colleagues will reflect on Professor Castillo’s scholarship, mentorship, and community leadership, highlighting the lasting impact she had at Cornell and beyond.

• Reflections: Attendees will be invited to share brief memories and stories about how Professor Castillo influenced their lives, careers, and sense of community.