Biography/History

Renamed as the Roberto Hernandez Center in 1999, the Spanish Speaking Outreach Institute was founded in 1970 with the purpose of increasing the enrollment of Hispanic students at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, and providing services related to education for Milwaukee's Hispanic community. Initially established within the Office of the Chancellor, the Institute later became part of the College of Letters & Science. The Center offers English classes, helps students receive financial aid, tutors incoming UWM freshmen, and provides counseling and information services. It also supports Hispanic art exhibits and theater productions, speakers, and community awareness activities.

Directors of the Institute

1970-1972	Armando Orellano, Acting
1972-1974	Rafael A. Gutierrez
1974-1975	Gregorio Montoto, Acting
1975-1978	Arnold C. Vento
1978-1983	Rodolfo J. Cortina
1984-1989	Santiago Daydi-Tolson
1989-1999	Felipe Rodriguez

Directors of the Roberto Hernandez Center

1999-2002	William Velez
2002-2016	Enrique Figueroa
2016-2018	Alberto Maldonado (interim)
2018-present	Alberto Maldonado