Eloy Alfaro, one of Ecuador’s most important historical figures, studied at the Central University of Ecuador. As a re... View More

Eloy Alfaro, one of Ecuador’s most important historical figures, studied at the Central University of Ecuador. As a revolutionary leader and twice president of Ecuador (1895–1901 and 1906–1911), he led the Liberal Revolution that modernized the country, abolished conservative clerical power, and promoted public education and civil liberties. Alfaro is celebrated as a national hero, and his commitment to secular and progressive reforms deeply influenced Ecuadorian society. View Less

Benjamín Carrión, an influential writer, diplomat, and cultural promoter, was a prominent alumnus of the Central Unive... View More

Benjamín Carrión, an influential writer, diplomat, and cultural promoter, was a prominent alumnus of the Central University. He founded the Casa de la Cultura Ecuatoriana in 1944, a major institution for arts and literature in Ecuador. Carrión’s essays and literary criticism helped shape the country’s cultural identity, and he was a passionate advocate for supporting national artists and intellectuals. View Less

José María Velasco Ibarra studied law at the Central University and became one of Ecuador’s most well-known politica... View More

José María Velasco Ibarra studied law at the Central University and became one of Ecuador’s most well-known political figures, serving as president on five separate occasions between 1934 and 1972. Known for his charismatic leadership style and populist rhetoric, Velasco Ibarra left a lasting impact on Ecuadorian politics and is remembered for his infrastructure initiatives and educational reforms. View Less

Juan León Mera, a writer, painter, and politician, attended the Central University and is best known for writing the ly... View More

Juan León Mera, a writer, painter, and politician, attended the Central University and is best known for writing the lyrics of Ecuador’s national anthem. He also authored the famous novel Cumandá, a cornerstone of Ecuadorian literature that addresses themes of indigenous identity and national unity. His work as an intellectual and cultural figure made him a key promoter of Ecuadorian arts and letters. View Less

Rosalía Arteaga is a lawyer and writer who studied at the Central University before becoming the first female president... View More

Rosalía Arteaga is a lawyer and writer who studied at the Central University before becoming the first female president of Ecuador, serving briefly in 1997. She also served as vice president and has been a prominent advocate for education, environmental issues, and women’s rights in Latin America. Beyond politics, she has authored numerous books and continues to participate in global educational and sustainability initiatives. View Less