This evening, October 11, 2011, I have the honor to introduce Mario Sepulveda, the leader of the 33 miners who survived in a collapsed mine, buried ½ mile underground for 70 days in Northern Chile. It took rescuers almost 17 days just to initially locate them. I am sure you remember Mario, he was the second man to emerge as millions watched. He captured our hearts when he exited the rescue capsule chanting “Viva Chile!” at the top of his lungs

The eyes of the world turned to Chile on August 5, 2010 when the mine caved, leaving the 33 miners trapped inside. International press reported day and night carrying the news of an unlikely but miraculous rescue that united the world in wishing for the well being of the miners. It was an odyssey never experienced before. For a moment in time the world came together with the single goal “to save the 33 miners”. This unprecedented and united mission included both nations and individuals that made a rescue possible on October 13th.

Mario Sepulveda’s story of his last night in the mine and what he has been doing since the rescue is a compelling and uplifting story. It is a story of an accident that exemplifies courage, the fight against all odds and the triumph of the human spirit.

I am introducing Mr. Sepulveda on behalf of The Latino Research Center, of which I sit on The Advisory Committee. The event is free to the public. Details below:

Where: Davidson Math and Science Center Nell J. Redfield Auditorium on the campus of UNR (map link)

For additional information, contact Iris West at 775-682-9043 or jwest@unr.edu or visit http://www.unr.edu/latinocenter/