SAN BERNADINO, CA – Santos Manuel, the founding leader of the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, has received an In Memoriam (Posthumous) Honorary Doctorate at California State University, San Bernardino’s (CSUSB) spring commencement. San Manuel Vice Chairman Johnny Hernandez, surrounded by descendants of Santos Manuel and others of his family ancestral legacy, accepted the award on Manuel’s behalf.
Manuel is revered by the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians as a visionary man who arose in their darkest hour through extraordinary leadership, ensuring the survival of their ancestors and tribe.
“No one deserves this honor more than my great, great grandfather, Santos Manuel,” said Ken Ramirez, former San Manuel Chairman. “His wisdom, courage, and vision made it possible for his descendants to have a future, to become a strong tribal government with a forward-looking approach for preparing our community and our people for the challenges that each generation of Yuhaaviatam may face.”
“We can think of few others who best exemplify our region’s, state’s and nation’s most distinguished leaders and humanitarians, individuals whose efforts have transcended the ordinary and made a remarkable impact on the lives of generations of people,” said Tomás D. Morales, CSUSB President. “I am grateful that we can lift up his name in this way through the highest honor available in the CSU.”
