The Department of Spanish and Portuguese is proud to announce that Brenda Lara, instructor of Spanish, has been named one of Tucson’s 40 Under 40, an honor presented by the Southern Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, the Arizona Daily Star and Snell & Wilmer. The recognition honors professionals under 40 for their work, leadership and commitment to advancing the Southern Arizona community.
“I am honored to receive this recognition, as it represents my commitment to supporting my students and serving my community,” Brenda Lara said. “This award is a meaningful reminder of the importance of mentorship and the lasting impact that guidance, encouragement and support can have on a student’s personal and professional journey.”
A proud University of Arizona alumna, Lara earned a master’s degree in Spanish and bachelor’s degrees in Spanish literature and Italian studies from Arizona. She teaches Spanish language courses focused on grammar, Hispanic culture and literature and leads critical service-learning and community outreach initiatives that connect students with the Tucson community.
“This award also reflects the commitment and support my professors in the Department of Spanish and Portuguese showed me as both an undergraduate and graduate student,” Lara said.
Now, as a member of the department, Lara has the opportunity to provide that same support to students. Through the Critical Service Learning and Community Outreach Program, she works with Dr. Ana Cornide to mentor students and help prepare them for their careers.
“I have the opportunity to give that same support to the next generation of students,” Lara said. “This experience has allowed me to understand better the impact of mentorship and the importance of career readiness.”
Lara’s work has earned recognition from colleagues who have seen her commitment to students and the community firsthand.
“Brenda is an exceptional emerging leader whose work is grounded in care, equity and a genuine commitment to the students and communities of Southern Arizona,” said Cornide. “I have had the privilege of working closely with her and have seen firsthand how she leads: by listening, building trust, recognizing the strengths that others bring and creating opportunities for people to see new possibilities for themselves.
“Whether she is expanding outreach to local high schools, supporting students as they navigate internships and professional pathways, or building relationships with community partners, Brenda approaches every initiative with intentionality and a deep sense of responsibility to those she serves. What distinguishes Brenda is that she understands leadership not as individual achievement, but as the ability to create opportunities for others.”
For Lara, career readiness goes beyond preparing students for their future careers. “I believe it is also about helping them recognize their strengths, build confidence, discover opportunities and believe in their ability to achieve their goals,” Lara said.
“I hope to continue creating opportunities that empower them to succeed and make a positive impact in their communities."