In collaboration with the Friends of Fullerton College Foundation, the Latino Faculty and Staff Association, and Fullerton College student leaders, the campus community came together on Sept. 14 to honor and celebrate the life, legacy, and contributions of Hornet alumnus and California’s first Latino Supreme Court Justice Cruz Reynoso. The event marked the final stage in a dedication and renaming of Building 200 as Cruz Reynoso Hall.
“This was a historic event for Fullerton College where we dedicated what was known as Building 200 after our distinguished alumni, activist, and California’s first Chicano Supreme Court Justice, the honorable Cruz Reynoso,” said President Cynthia Olivo.
The event was attended by the family of Cruz Reynoso, community members, civic leaders, and Fullerton College students, staff, and community. The event also served as a kickoff to Hispanic/Latino/a/x Heritage Month and featured food, vibrant music, and Aztec dance performances.
During the event, President Olivo and Justice Reynoso’s sons, Len Reynoso and Rondall Reynoso, helped unveil a large plaque that has been placed at the north side of the building near the Student Life and Leadership Office. Cruz Reynoso led Fullerton College students as Student Body President when the Hispanic population of the college was only seven percent.
“Having the plaque near Student Life and Leadership is significant because it provides visibility to our current students and will hopefully help them see that they do belong here,” said Fullerton College Student Trustee Chloe Serrano.
The plaque features a photo of Cruz Reynoso with the words “Hornet, Justice, Activist, California’s First Chicano Supreme Court Justice.” Lettering has also been added to the south side of the building facing Chapman Avenue.
–Fullerton College News Center (Posted September 20, 2023)
The Cruz Reynoso dedication program further describes the life and legacy of the honorable Cruz Reynoso. View the program online: Cruz Reynoso Program 2023