About Bobby Verdugo and Yoli Ríos

“El Centro” was named after Chicano/a civil rights activists Bobby Lee Verdugo and Yoli Ríos. In 1968, both individuals were key organizers of the East L.A. Walkouts at five schools. Their advocacy spurred an education rights movement that successfully brought education reform and policy improvements to disenfranchised schools.

Bobby Verdugo and Yoli Ríos went on to get married in 1979, and are the proud parents of two daughters, Monica and Maricela. They continue to devote their lives to civil rights activism, educational and health care reform, and social progress. This center is named after them in honor of the unwavering support of EKU students, staff, and faculty.