Community Leader Elisa Bender Receives the Alumni Service Award

Elisa Bender '98's path to the Alumni Service Award is rooted in a lifetime of commitment to culture and community. She grew up in Florissant, where dance connected her to her family's heritage and introduced her to the power of bringing people together. Those early experiences shaped the way she serves others today and continue to guide the work that has made her a respected leader in the community.

Bender grew up in a household that was active in the community, proud of their Bolivian heritage, and eager to share this culture. Her mother helped organize the first Hispanic Festival in St. Louis, an event that Bender is still active in organizing today. Dance was a constant throughout her childhood. She performed Mexican folklore, Flamenco, and Bolivian styles along with tap, jazz, and ballet. Those experiences helped her build relationships across the community and continue to shape the way she connects with others.

At Lindenwood, Bender further pursued her passion for dance. She was a member of Lion Line and found mentorship in Dr. Alice Bloch. Bender recalls Bloch introducing her to modern dance while at Lindenwood. Her time at the University also introduced her to her future husband and fellow alumnus, Adam. Despite having gone to high school together, the pair began dating at Lindenwood, a place where they share many memories.

After graduating with a degree in business administration and human service agency management, Bender became increasingly involved in the St. Louis Hispanic community. She is currently a board member and fund development coordinator for Hispanic Festival, Inc., where she oversees sponsorships, grant writing, artist selection, and special projects. Fueled by her passion for arts and culture, Bender sits on the board for the St. Louis Visionary Awards and has served the Missouri Arts Council and Amigos of St. Charles.

Bender's passion for service led her to establish the Latinx Arts Network, the first organization of its kind in St. Louis. The network has connected more than 300 artists and supported the growth of new Latinx initiatives across the region. Bender also led the creation of the first Hispanic Heritage Flag and was honored by the St. Louis Cardinals Pitching In program.

Nominated by a close friend, Bender says she felt humbled even to learn of the nomination. She views the award as a reminder that her work has reached others. Bender says, "I love what I do, and I feel like I'm doing good things, but being recognized for it is very humbling."

Guided by the purpose of bringing people together, Bender continually lives by Lindenwood's core values. As a community leader, she works to support young artists and build a stronger, more connected future for the Hispanic community in the St. Louis region. This dedication to service, combined with her mantra, "I have so much more to do," is producing an impact that is shaping the region in lasting ways.