EVA ORTIZ’S OFFICE is a hub and a haven for countless Wheaton students. As associate director of the Office of Multicultural Development (OMD), Eva makes it her business to encourage and support students of all backgrounds as they navigate campus life. Always ready with a kind word, warm hug, or quick snack, Eva has earned a reputation as a caring mentor for many on campus.

“I give thanks to God for allowing me the joy of edifying his sons and daughters,” she says. “My life is illuminated by students who love God and desire to impact the world.” 

During her decade of service at Wheaton, Eva has seen plenty of change at the OMD. She notes the office’s relocation to Lower Beamer—making it a part of the central hub of student life—as one of the biggest drivers of increased student engagement during her tenure. 

“I have seen how good our God is as he paints a portrait of his love for this community,” she says. “My prayer is that we will continue to envision and expand this portrait as a mosaic that encompasses the richness of every ethnicity and race."

NAME: Eva Ortiz

OCCUPATION: Associate Director, Office of Multicultural Development

YEARS: 10

HOMETOWN: Aurora, IL

EDUCATION: M.A. in Christian Leadership Studies, Liberty University; B.S. in Art Education, Northern Illinois University

FUN FACT: Eva wrote handwritten "CPO care notes" to every undergraduate on campus at the end of the 2015-16 school year