Eller Community Witnesses Transformation During Visit to HSLopez Center of Opportunity

Last week, the HSLopez Family Foundation hosted students, faculty, and staff from the Eller College of Management at its Center of Opportunity. The center exemplifies the foundation's mission of helping people transition from "homeless to wholeness" by providing integrated support services under one roof.

What was once a Holiday Inn has been transformed into a beacon of hope for Tucson's homeless population, thanks to Eller College of Management benefactor Humberto "Bert" S. Lopez. In 2018, the HSLopez Family Foundation—established by Lopez and his wife Czarina—purchased the property and converted it into the Center of Opportunity.

Lopez, who donated $10 million to establish the HSLopez School of Business Analytics at the Eller College of Management, serves as the Center's primary benefactor. His vision extends beyond physical infrastructure—though he has funded numerous buildings including a gym and library—to creating sustainable pathways out of homelessness.

Eller College visitors were given an immersive behind-the-scenes tour of the Center, where they witnessed the transformative impact of the foundation's work firsthand. The highlight came when students and faculty engaged with former residents whose lives had been rebuilt through the Center's programs—individuals who had journeyed from seeking shelter to becoming vital staff members helping others follow their example.

One of the most notable moments came from Lester, a former recovery guest who has faced recovery three times. Now an employee at the Center, he uses his personal experience to help others recognize signs of struggle and find the support they need. “I'll keep going till the wheels fall off,” he said. “And if they do, I'll get out and walk.”

"No description could have prepared us for the reality of the Center of Opportunity. Seeing firsthand the dedication and transformative work being done was an invaluable experience for our students, faculty, and staff," says Gray Hunter, academic director of the MS in Business Analytics. "We're excited to explore opportunities for student-led initiatives that support the Center's mission while developing the next generation of business and community leaders."

Yong Liu, associate dean for Eller College of Management, expressed excitement about the possibilities. "The relationship between the Eller College and the Center of Opportunity represents the ideal intersection of business education and community impact. We envision creating engagement opportunities where our students can contribute their analytical skills and business acumen while gaining invaluable perspective on social challenges. Bert's generous support of both institutions creates a natural bridge for collaboration that will strengthen our Tucson community while preparing students to become ethical, socially conscious business leaders."