During commencement ceremonies, Our Lady of the Lake University paid tribute to one of its distinguished alumni, Colonel Gil Coronado (USAF Retired), awarding him a posthumous Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree in recognition of a lifetime dedicated to service, leadership, and community empowerment.
The honorary degree was received on his behalf by his wife and daughter, creating one of the most moving moments of the ceremony as the OLLU community stood in remembrance and gratitude for a leader whose legacy remains deeply rooted in the Westside of San Antonio.
A proud Mexican American leader and lifelong advocate for his community, Colonel Coronado described himself as a “product of the streets” of San Antonio’s Westside — a community he never forgot as he rose to national prominence. Through military service, civic leadership, and advocacy, he transformed early challenges into a career defined by integrity, mentorship, and opportunity for others.
Colonel Coronado served with distinction in the United States Air Force, rising to the rank of Colonel and commanding at Lackland Air Force Base. His military career included service during the Vietnam War and international assignments across Europe and Latin America, earning more than 35 military honors and decorations, including the Legion of Merit and the Bronze Star.
Beyond military service, Coronado made a lasting national impact as a champion of Hispanic recognition and advancement. Widely known as the “Padrino” of Hispanic Heritage Month, he helped expand the original National Hispanic Heritage Week into the month-long national celebration recognized today. His commitment to representation and cultural pride helped elevate Hispanic contributions across the United States.
His leadership continued at the highest levels of government when he became the first Hispanic Director of the Selective Service System, where he strengthened outreach to underserved communities and expanded equitable access to opportunity.
Throughout his life, Colonel Coronado remained connected to Our Lady of the Lake University — his alma mater — embodying OLLU’s mission of service, social justice, and community transformation. His work opened pathways for generations of Westside families, students, and future leaders.
By conferring this honorary doctorate, OLLU honored not only an alumnus but a legacy of courage, cultural pride, and servant leadership that reflects the very spirit of the Saints.
The recognition serves as a lasting reminder that education, faith, and service can transform lives — and that the impact of one OLLU graduate can resonate far beyond campus and across generations.