Dear OLLU Community,
It is with a heavy heart that I share that one of our beloved OLLUmni has been called home to God. Colonel Gil Coronado (BA ’75) passed peacefully on Saturday morning at the age of 89.
A proud son of San Antonio’s West Side, Gil was raised just down the street from our campus on Veracruz Street. His life story is one of resilience, grace, and providence. Though he dropped out of Sidney Lanier High School at the age of 15, God had other plans. Through the care and vision of one of our Sisters, a pathway was created for Gil to come to OLLU and complete his sociology degree, an education his superiors encouraged him to pursue for professional advancement. What emerged was not only a graduate of OLLU, but a leader whose legacy will be felt for generations.
Gil is affectionately and respectfully known as the father of National Hispanic Heritage Month. Through his vision, leadership, and tireless commitment, Public Law 100-402 was enacted on August 17, 1988, expanding National Hispanic Heritage Week into a full month and authorizing President Ronald Reagan to designate September 15 through October 15 annually as National Hispanic Heritage Month. I cannot overstate the national and cultural significance of his contribution.
As I remember Gil, I am deeply grateful to him for many reasons, but especially for his friendship. From the very first days of my arrival at OLLU, he welcomed me into his home and into his life. In every interaction, Gil embodied values that endure: respect for one another, meeting people eye to eye, holding one’s head and chin up, honoring one’s word through action, and being proud of one’s roots. He was always teaching, always mentoring—often reminding me to “retire early, and retire often,” his way of encouraging a full and faithful life.
Gil was also a steadfast champion for education. He believed deeply that success begins with education and he often spoke of the three Es: education, effort, and excellence. Last year, he published his memoir, Barrio Boy, a powerful reflection on his journey and the values that guided his life. In Barrio Boy, Gil recounts his story—from a troubled childhood and early encounters with the justice system to a life of public service, military leadership, and advocacy for veterans. His life is a testament to perseverance, dignity, and the transformative power of education. It is, in many ways, a lived and model expression of the boundless potential within each person when opportunity meets determination.
Colonel Gil Coronado was a model American citizen, a faithful servant, and a man of profound dignity.
“The souls of the righteous are in the hand of God, and no torment shall touch them.” (Wisdom 3:1)
Gil, dear friend—you will be deeply missed. May you rest in eternal peace.
With prayer and gratitude,
Abel