University of Minnesota Morris Teaching Specialist in Spanish Windy González Roberts has received the Award of Merit by the North Central Council of Latin Americanists (NCCLA) for her student and community-related work.
The award was presented on Sept. 25 during the 2025 NCCLA Conference, held at St. Olaf College in Northfield.
NCCLA awards recognize outstanding research, teaching, and community contributions. The Award of Merit is offered to individuals and/or organizations in the various areas of journalism, business, government, education, and the arts and humanities for outstanding achievement in bringing to the general public a greater awareness of the nations, peoples and cultures of Latin America.
Roberts first taught education courses at UMN Morris in 2005, and joined the Spanish faculty in 2008. Her outreach activities include the Morris community English as a Second Language (ESL) program, the Jane Addams Project, and the Spanish conversation table.
The Community English as a Second Language (ESL) program provides quality English language classes to new Latino immigrants while improving their ability to participate professionally, civically and personally. It also provides opportunities for UMN Morris students to develop intercultural competence and leadership, collaboration, and teaching skills.
The Jane Addams Internship Program is a student-led organization guided by Roberts that meets weekly and fosters intercultural and bilingual dialogue and meaningful connections in an open, welcoming environment.