Surrounded by 100 colleagues, friends and family, Theo Crevenna was honored for receiving the Orden Mexicana del Aguila Azteca, the highest award given by the Mexican government to a foreigner."The greatest satisfaction I have is to be able to be of service," Crevenna said.Crevenna, 86, has worked with UNM for 26 years and is special adviser to UNM's Latin American
and Iberian Institute. He has helped exchange students from Mexico through more than 30 programs, including the University's
international programs.The event took place at the SUB. Five speakers, including Crevenna, shared their stories of his work. The University is honored that Crevenna received the award, said Terry Yates, vice president for UNM's Research and Economic Development and the master of ceremonies for the event."This is quite an honor for UNM and the state of New Mexico," Yates said. "Theo is well deserving of this award, and not only for this award, but for his life-long dedication to the University."The award, also known as the Order of the Aztec Eagle, is given to non-Mexican citizens who have performed outstanding services for the country, according to a press release by Mexico's Ministry of Foreign affairs.
Crevenna is one of four people to receive the award this year and is one of three recipients from New Mexico. Gov. Bill Richardson is also one of the three, said Juan Manuel Solana, the consul of Mexico in Albuquerque. "It's given to somebody that has really made a difference of the image
of Mexico," Solana said. Although many people, including Mexico, benefit from the work Crevenna has done, he has given many opportunities to Mexican students, Solana said."It's not just Mexico - it's the number of doors he opened," Solana said. "A lot of Mexican students have found a home at UNM."
