Professor of Psychology Bernadette Solorzano, PsyD., received the Santa Maria Justice Award for “outstanding contributions to the advancement of legal and social justice.”

The award was presented on Dec. 12 during the annual Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe at St. Mary’s University.

Dr. Solorzano, director of OLLU’s Community Counseling Service, was recognized for her work with St. Mary’s law students in conducting pro bono immigration evaluations for individuals seeking asylum and for victims of domestic violence, cartel violence and crime.   

She also works with University of Texas at Austin students doing pro bono immigration evaluations with individuals who are detained at the Hutto Detention Center in Taylor. 

“I am shocked and humbled for this recognition,” Dr. Solorzano said. “I am passionate about my work and humbled that God has placed me in this situation where I can help people struggling to find a place of peace and acceptance. I am happy Our Lady of the Lake University has supported me. I truly believe Providence brought me to this work.”