2

3

22001166 AAWWAARRDDSS CCEERREEMMOONNYY

SSaattuurrddaayy,, SSeepptteemmbbeerr 2244,, 22001166

RReecceeppttiioonn ………………………………………… TToonnyy DDaavviiss aanndd DDaann LLiippaarriinnii

EEnntteerrttaaiinnmmeenntt // DDaanncceerrss ………………………………………… BBrraazziilliiaann CCaappooeeiirraa DDaannccee PPeerrffoorrmmaannccee

NNaattiioonnaall AAnntthheemm ………………………………………… SSFFCC IIrrvviinngg CCoorrtteess –– CCTT AArrmmyy NNaattiioonnaall GGuuaarrdd

WWeellccoommee RReemmaarrkkss ………………………………………… SSuubbiirraa GGoorrddoonn,, EExxeeccuuttiivvee DDiirreeccttoorr –– CCEEOO

SSppeeaakkeerr ………………………………………… RRiicchhaarrdd AA.. CCrruuzz,, CCEEOO CCoommmmiissssiioonneerr

MMiissttrreessss ooff CCeerreemmoonniieess ………………………………………… EEmmaannuueellaa PPaallmmaarreess,, CCEEOO CCoommmmiissssiioonneerr

IInnvvooccaattiioonn …………………………………………

KKeeyynnoottee aanndd AAwwaarrddss

KKeeyynnoottee SSppeeaakkeerr ………………………………………… HHoonnoorraabbllee JJuuaann CCaannddeellaarriiaa

AAwwaarrddss CCeerreemmoonnyy

SSttuuddeenntt CCeerrttiiffiiccaatteess aanndd SScchhoollaarrsshhiippss

CClloossiinngg RReemmaarrkkss ………………………………………… SSuubbiirraa GGoorrddoonn,, EExxeeccuuttiivvee DDiirreeccttoorr –– CCEEOO

BBeenneeddiiccttiioonn …………………………………………

MMuussiicc ………………………………………… TToonnyy DDaavviiss aanndd DDaann LLiippaarriinnii

EElliizzaabbeetthh AAgguuiillaarr -- NNeeww BBrriittaaiinn

EEmmiillssee AAllmmaannzzaa -- FFaaiirrffiieelldd

JJiimmmmyy ÁÁllvvaarraaddoo -- BBrrooookkffiieelldd

KKeellllyy CChhuuqquuiihhuuaannccaa -- GGllaassttoonnbbuurryy

NNaattaalliiee CCrriinniittii -- NNeeww BBrriittaaiinn

AAnnnnaa LLeettiicciiaa FFeerrnnáánnddeess -- DDaannbbuurryy

PPaauullaa AArriieell MMaarrttíínneezz -- HHaammddeenn

OOmmaanniieell OOrrttiizz -- HHaarrttffoorrdd

CCllaarraa RRaammíírreezz -- HHaarrttffoorrdd

AAlleejjaannddrroo RRooddrríígguueezz SSaann AAnnddrrééss

-- HHaarrttffoorrdd

SSeelleennaa VVéélleezz -- BBrriiddggeeppoorrtt

EEmmiillyy VVeerrggaarraa -- NNeeww HHaavveenn

4

September 24, 2016

Dear Members of the Board, Awardees, Distinguished Guests and Staff:

It gives me great pleasure to be here this evening honoring 12 student scholars from throughout the State

of Connecticut. They will all be attending college this fall and we are delighted to be able to award each

of them an $800 scholarship for their educational expenses.

Thank you for attending this evening and helping us celebrate the success of these 12 students and they

are: Elizabeth Aguilar from New Britain, Emilse Almanza from Fairfield, Jimmy Alvarado from

Brookfield, Kelly Chuquihuanca from Glastonbury, Natalie Criniti from New Britain, Anna Leticia

Fernándes from Danbury, Paula Ariel Martínez from Hamden, Omaniel Ortiz from Hartford, Clara

Ramírez from Hartford, Alejandro Rodríguez San Andrés from Hartford, Selena Vélez from Bridgeport

and Emily Vergara from New Haven. Congratulations to each and every one of you and I hope that you

will reach out to us on occasion so we may know how you are doing in college.

I wish to thank the members of the Board of the former Latino and Puerto Rican Affairs Commission

and our current board members for taking the time to help us honor the students tonight. I also wish to

thank the great staff I have the chance to work with on a daily basis. They are: Mrs. Clarisa Cardone,

Senior Administrative Assistant, Ms. Lucia Goicoechea-Hernández, Senior Special Projects Coordinator,

Mrs. Mui Mui Hin-McCormick, Senior Special Projects Coordinator, Mrs. Denise Crosby Drummond,

Public Information Officer, Mr. Alok Bhatt, Senior Commission Analyst and Mr. Werner Oyanadel,

Senior Commission Analyst.

Thank you all for attending this evening and I look forward to hopefully seeing many of you at next

year’s scholarship awards which will encompass all 3 divisions of the Commission on Equity and

Opportunity – African American Affairs, Asian Pacific American Affairs and Latino and Puerto Rican

Affairs Commissions.

Sincerely,

Subira Gordon

Executive Director

5

Subira Gordon

Executive Director

Alok Bhatt

Commission Analyst

Asian Pacific American Policy Division

Clarisa Cardone

Administrative Assistant

Denise Drummond

Public Information Officer

Civic Engagement Division

Lucia Goicoechea-Hernández

Senior Special Projects Coordinator

Civic Engagement Division

Mui Mui Hin-McCormick

Senior Special Projects Coordinator

Civic Engagement Division

Werner Oyanadel

Commission Analyst

Latino Policy Division

6

SSFFCC IIRRVVIINNGG CCOORRTTEESS

CCOONNNNEECCTTIICCUUTT AARRMMYY NNAATTIIOONNAALL GGUUAARRDD

Sergeant First Class (SFC) Irving Cortes joined the Connecticut Army National Guard almost 16

years ago as a high school senior at Howell Cheney Technical High School in Manchester,

Connecticut. To date he has served in the 1109th AVCRAD as an Avionics Mechanic and in the

Connecticut Army National Guard’s Recruiting and Retention Battalion as a Recruiting and Retention

NCO, and currently as a MEPS Guidance Counselor.

He also deployed in support of Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom. SFC Cortes

currently resides in the City of Hartford with his wife, Anarelis, and his three children.

NNAATTIIOONNAALL AANNTTHHEEMM

7

EEMMAANNUUEELLAA PPAALLMMAARREESS

Emanuela Palmares graduated from Danbury High School in 2001. She attended Naugatuck Valley

Community College in 2005 and Western Connecticut State University in 2007. In 2006, she became

the editor of the Tribuna Newspaper, a biweekly English, Portuguese and Spanish publication. Ms.

Palmares earned her child development associate credential from Western Kentucky University in

2010.

Ms. Palmares has been involved in the following organizations and volunteer roles:

Latino and Puerto Rican Affairs Commission (LPRAC) of the Connecticut General Assembly

(CGA), Commissioner & Executive Board Member (2013–Present}

Citizens Council to the Consulate General of Brazil in Hartford, President (2013–2015)

School Governance Board (Danbury High School), Board member (2013–2015)

Regional YMCA, Board Member & Executive Board Member (2009–2010)

United Way of Northern Fairfield County, Emerging Leaders Council, Board member (2009–

2010)

United Way of Northern Fairfield County, Community Impact Grant Selection Process, Board

member (2008–2009)

Danbury Housing Partnership, Board member (2007–2009)

Association of Religious Communities' Blue Ribbon Commission on Immigrants, Co-chair

(2006–2007)

AmeriCares Free Clinic, Volunteer translator (2003–2005)

MMIISSTTRREESSSS OOFF CCEERREEMMOONNIIEESS

8

HHOONNOORRAABBLLEE JJUUAANN RR.. CCAANNDDEELLAARRIIAA

SSTTAATTEE RREEPPRREESSEENNTTAATTIIVVEE -- CCOONNNNEECCTTIICCUUTT

Deputy Majority Leader, Juan Candelaria, has served New Haven’s 95th District since 2002. He is a member

of the Appropriations, Education, Higher Education and Employment Advancement Committees and the Joint Committee on Legislative Management Committee.

In 2013, his colleagues elected him Chair of the Black and Latino Caucus to lead their legislative agenda in

the legislature. In that role, he led efforts to pass legislation that would allow undocumented immigrants

apply for Connecticut driver’s licenses.

Additionally, Rep. Candelaria was instrumental in passing Connecticut’s in-state tuition legislation in 2011 to allow students without legal documentation to pursue their educational dreams.

During his tenure in the General Assembly, Candelaria has been a strong supporter of education issues and

has led efforts to empower youth and Latinos statewide to get involved in the democratic process through

voter registration drives and education. He also leads a strong network of young people who have ambitious professional and social aspirations.

Juan has also worked tirelessly to support and enable groups such as the Spanish American Merchants

Association (SAMA) to be recognized, making them eligible to receive state funding to help them move ideas and initiatives forward on behalf of local businesses.

Some of his former memberships include the Hill Development Corporation, the Regional Workforce and Centro San Jose in New Haven where he utilized his experience to support community driven initiatives.

His vast professional managerial experience and marketing skills have earned him accolades and promotions

in the private sector. Besides holding public office as a State Representative, he is a former New Haven

Alderman and a current member of New Haven’s Town Committee. Additionally, Candelaria serves on

several boards and organizations such the National Hispanic Caucus of State Legislators, the Connecticut

State Hispanic Caucus and the National Conference of State Legislators.

Candelaria is a graduate of Albertus Magnus College and holds an MBA from the University of New Haven.

KKEEYYNNOOTTEE SSPPEEAAKKEERR

9

TTOONNYY DDAAVVIISS

Tony Davis is a guitarist who is currently finishing his senior year at The Jackie McLean Institute of Jazz,

Hartt School of Music. Being the son of world renowned trombonist, Steve Davis, Tony has had the pleasure

of growing up with close connection to some of the greatest jazz musicians in the world. He currently studies

with Nat Reeves, René McLean, Abraham Burton, Eric McPherson, Javon Jackson, Rich Goldstein, Rick

Germanson, among many others. Tony can be found regularly performing all over New England, especially in

the Hartford, New Haven and New York City areas. He also teaches privately and has been an instructor at

The Artist's Collective in Hartford.

Based out of Hartford, CT guitarist Dan Liparini has been performing since 2007, both leading his own

project and working as a sideman in other groups. He has been an active member of the band Art School

Girls since the group's formation in late 2014, and has recorded and toured with several Connecticut bands

including Wise Old Moon and Orice Jenkins. As a student at The Hartt School of Music he has studied with

some of the finest musicians in the northeast, including Rich Goldstein, Nat Reeves, Steve Davis, Jeremy Pelt,

Jeff Cashen, and Andy Laverne.

DDAANN LLIIPPAARRIINNII

EEFFRRAAIIMM SSIILLVVAA,, EEXXEECCUUTTIIVVEE DDIIRREECCTTOORR

Capoeira, a martial art dance form developed in Brazil by 16th-

Century slaves. This professional ensemble performs a colorful,

crowd-pleasing repertoire of Afro-Brazilian dances that fuse

rhythmic music with high-energy gymnastics and martial arts.

Efraim Silva, President and Artistic Director of Ginga Brasileira,

was born in Guaruja, Sao Paulo, Brazil. He was awarded state and

federal certification as a professional musician and rhythmist, and

he opened his own Capoeira academy in Braganca Paulista, Sao

Paulo, in 1985. He became Brazilian national champion of

Capoeira in 1988. Efraim now teaches Capoeira in the New Haven

area, and has his own performing group, Ginga Brasileira, Inc.,

with which he performs in schools, universities and festivals all

over the United States, Canada and Brazil.

10

CCoonnggrraattuullaattiioonnss

JJuuaann FFuueenntteess VViizzccaarrrroonnddoo SScchhoollaarrsshhiipp

AAwwaarrdd rreecciippiieennttss

Elizabeth Aguilar - New Britain

Emilse Almanza - Fairfield

Jimmy Álvarado - Brookfield

Kelly Chuquihuanca - Glastonbury

Natalie Criniti - New Britain

Anna Leticia Fernándes - Danbury

Paula Ariel Martínez - Hamden

Omaniel Ortiz - Hartford

Clara Ramírez - Hartford

Alejandro Rodríguez San Andrés

- Hartford

Selena Vélez - Bridgeport

Emily Vergara - New Haven

11

12

13

14

15

EElliizzaabbeetthh AAgguuiillaarr -- NNeeww BBrriittaaiinn

EEmmiillssee AAllmmaannzzaa -- FFaaiirrffiieelldd

JJiimmmmyy ÁÁllvvaarraaddoo -- BBrrooookkffiieelldd

KKeellllyy CChhuuqquuiihhuuaannccaa -- GGllaassttoonnbbuurryy

NNaattaalliiee CCrriinniittii -- NNeeww BBrriittaaiinn

AAnnnnaa LLeettiicciiaa FFeerrnnáánnddeess -- DDaannbbuurryy

PPaauullaa AArriieell MMaarrttíínneezz -- HHaammddeenn

OOmmaanniieell OOrrttiizz -- HHaarrttffoorrdd

CCllaarraa RRáámmiirreezz -- HHaarrttffoorrdd

AAlleejjaannddrroo RRooddrríígguueezz SSaann ÁÁnnddrreess -- HHaarrttffoorrdd

SSeelleennaa VVéélleezz -- BBrriiddggeeppoorrtt

EEmmiillyy VVeerrggaarraa -- NNeeww HHaavveenn

““TTHHEE SSTTAARR SSPPAANNGGLLEEDD BBAANNNNEERR””

Oh, say, can you see, by the dawn's early light,

What so proudly we hail'd at the twilight's last gleaming?

Whose broad stripes and bright stars, through the perilous fight,

O’er the ramparts we watched, were so gallantly streaming?

And the rockets' red glare, the bombs bursting in air,

Gave proof through the night that our flag was still there.

O say, does that star-spangled banner yet wave

Oer the land of the free and the home of the brave?

16

My name is Elizabeth Aguilar; I am seventeen years old and come from New Britain,

Connecticut. I attended New Britain High School and graduated June of 2016. Today, I

attend Southern Connecticut State University where I plan to pursue a Bachelor's degree in

Nursing.

I have a great desire to help those in need. My devotion to giving a helping hand

bloomed once I began volunteering at The Hospital of Central Connecticut and

through clinical rotations as a student Nursing Assistant at various local health centers in

my home town. Not to mention, my interest towards the Medical Field grew once I

enrolled in New Britain High School's Health Academy for Health Professions. Minutes

after listening to lessons concerning the human body, human body systems and hands on

healthcare to patients I knew this field was the one for me. This field of study would give

me the opportunity to apply my knowledge and to help better the health of individuals.

I am truly thankful to say that without God, the love and support of my parents I would

not be here today. They are who helped me embody the person I am today.

EELLIIZZAABBEETTHH AAGGUUIILLAARR

17

Emilse Almanza was born in Buenos Aires, Argentina. When she was five years old, she and

her family moved to the United States in hopes for a better future. While she welcomed her

new home, she grew up very much influenced by her Hispanic heritage.

Grateful for her education and the various opportunities given, she has worked hard from a

young age to contribute to the Latino and local community. Through LifeBridge Community

Services and volunteer work at Yale New Haven, Emilse found her passion for helping others.

She currently attends Fairfield University as a Biochemistry major, pursuing her aspirations to

attend Medical school and become an OB/GYN.

EEMMIILLSSEE AALLMMAANNZZAA

18

My name is Jimmy Alvarado. I am a very proud Hispanic first generation college attendee. I

will be attending Quinnipiac University in the fall of 2016. I have a deep interest in

Pathology and Medical Science.

I will be majoring in Health Science. It was very hard deciding what I wanted to do for the

rest of my life, but I believe that becoming a Medical Examiner is my true calling. I have

always had a huge interest in forensics and criminology.

I attended Henry Abbott Tech for High School. During my time there, I accomplished a lot

of things. I helped with my Graphic Design background in jobs such as "Power in Pageantry"

for the Brookfield Marching Band and "Breakfast with Santa" for the Henry Abbott Culinary

Department. I also helped design my Class's Prom tickets. When I was not in school, I spent

my time volunteering at the Danbury Hospital. At Danbury Hospital is where I really got

interested in the field of Pathology. I helped out at the Outpatient Infusion Center, which was

very close to the Pathology Department. I would often visit the Pathology Department to

deliver blood and specimens. Finally, I have found my true calling and I am ready to take on

the rough path ahead of me.

JJIIMMMMYY AALLVVAARRAADDOO

19

My name is Kelly Roxana Chuquihuanca, I am 21 years old and I was born in Lima, Peru. I moved to

the United States when I was 15 years old. My journey here started 6 years ago; I went to Glastonbury

High School, where I graduated. I am now currently attending the University of Connecticut, where I

study Animal Science with a focus in Veterinary Medicine. Since the day I arrived to this country I have

been a very hard worker, I fought many adversities such as being treated differently because of my

culture and accent but I never let that stop me; instead I used that as motivation to keep pushing myself

every day and prove them wrong.

As an immigrant I had to work twice as hard as the average kid of my age because I did not speak a word

of English so, while other kids of my age were out having fun, I was studying and translating most of my

classes. My first year in high school was tough but by my second year I was already speaking more

fluently and learning a third language, French. By my third year, I was selected to go to France as an

exchange student, which has always been my childhood dream. The same year and my senior year I won

the French National Contest in my level for two years in a row which proved that my dedication and

effort can take me far in life. I graduated High School with honors and soon after that I started my

freshman year in college.

This past May, I graduated with an associate’s degree – cum laude in Animal Science and I have made

honor roll every quarter since I started in college. However, all these accomplishments could not be

possible without all the help of my parents Hilda & Pedro Chuquihuanca who have helped me every step

of the way, pushed me every day beyond my limits and believe in me even when I do not. These two

amazing people sacrificed so much for me and for that I am very thankful and I want to keep making

them proud. Thank you mom and dad for the unconditional love.

KKEELLLLYY CCHHUUQQUUIIHHUUAANNCCAA

20

As a college bound minority, who was raised in a low income household and is now looking towards

my future, I can proudly say that I will be the first person in my family to graduate from college. My

name is Natalie Criniti and I am a nineteen-year old young female who is currently earning a Social

Work degree from Eastern Connecticut State University. With this degree I plan to assist and ensure

that the families and children in my local community are surrounded by a healthy environment.

Aside from my schoolwork, I live with my mother and three very young sisters. My mother is my

number one supporter and my sisters motivate me to try my absolute best in everything I do. My

sisters are the reason why I want to enter the Social Work field; all children should always live in a

safe and loving environment. After graduating from college, a future career goal of mine is to

become a social worker for the Department of Children and Families.

Thank you very much for awarding me the Juan Fuentes Vizcarrondo Scholarship, as it will bring me

another step closer to becoming a social worker.

NNAATTAALLIIEE CCRRIINNIITTII

21

I am a recent graduate of Henry Abbott Technical High School class of 2016. I graduated

top 25 percent in my class; during my four years I played varsity basketball and tennis. I

also obtained my hairdressing license and was a member of the National Honor Society.

I am so delighted to be a part of Southern Connecticut State University’s class of 2020. I

will be pursuing my dream to be a Speech Language Pathologist.

AANNNNAA LLEETTIICCIIAA FFEERRNNAANNDDEESS

22

My name is Paula Ariel Martínez and I am a sophomore at Smith College in Northampton,

Massachusetts. I am majoring in environmental science and policy with the goal of addressing

matters of social injustice towards low income and minority groups related to the environment.

This summer I had the opportunity to participate in a 12-week program for the U.S. Fish and

Wildlife Service through a collaborative with Hispanic Access Foundation. It was an amazing

internship that taught me much about myself and served to reinforce the path I want to take,

bringing to our Latino communities an awareness of, and the need to preserve, our natural

resources.

In addition to my academic work, I am the Community Service Representative for my residential

house, and was elected as head of new students for the upcoming year. I am involved with several

school organizations that include Divest Smith, working with the administration to divest Smith

from stock investments in fossil fuels; Animal Advocates of Smith College; Bicycle Kitchen, a club

that reclaims used bicycles; and Nosotras, a supportive network for Latinas at Smith College.

What I have achieved so far is in large part to your generous contribution, which I consider invaluable to

the continuation of my education and the achievement of my goals. I am extremely grateful to programs

like the CEO Scholarship award because, without your aid, I would not be able to attend Smith College,

nor value the events I have experienced or the knowledge I have gained. I am ever thankful, appreciative

and indebted to the Commission for your continued support. Thank you.

PPAAUULLAA AARRIIEELL MMAARRTTIINNEEZZ

23

As the youngest child of three siblings, who had all graduated at the top of their class, I was always taught

the importance of education. I studied at A.I. Prince Technical High School in my hometown of Hartford,

CT. During my time in high school I focused on making high honors, competing in the sport of football

and attempting to make going to church fit into my schedule.

Through times of high and low, I managed to find myself keeping up with both my studies and athletic

training. Sometimes on weekends I was even able to go out with my church and provide food to the

homeless in town. It was clear that education, religion and football were the things I valued the most,

alongside my family.

For the longest, I had always dreamed of going to college to make a name for myself and pursue a career.

All my efforts in high school have led me to where I am now. I graduated as the salutatorian of my high

school class and I was honored as a scholar athlete in the state of Connecticut.

Currently, I am attending the University of Connecticut studying pre-kinesiology: exercise science in

hopes of becoming a Physical Therapist. I hope to be able to complete my doctorate and work in a

hospital to give back to the community that I come from.

OOMMAANNIIEELL OORRTTIIZZ

24

I am Clara Ramirez and currently a sophomore at the University of Connecticut. My major

is Mechanical Engineering and I have a passion for aviation. I want to pursue a career in the

aerospace/aeronautical field.

I am from Perú and moved to America two years ago. Adapting to a new environment was

a little challenging for me but, with hard work and support from the people around me I

could succeed.

I graduated from high school with honors and was accepted to one of the best universities in

Connecticut. During my freshman year, I was accepted in the university honors program.

Something that I am also really passionate about is helping people. Since high school I

volunteer my time for several community service projects. At UConn, I participated in a

volunteer trip to Cusco providing people living there with medical support.

I know that by getting an education I can provide more support to my community and at the

same time achieve something I really want that is, being an Engineer.

CCLLAARRAA CCLLAARRAA RRAAMMÍÍRREEZZ

25

Alejandro Rodriguez San Andrés is currently a student at Capitol Community College where he has obtained

an Associate’s Degree in Liberal Arts in May 2016. He is transferring to Central Connecticut State

University in the spring of 2016 where he is planning to continue his education to become an Accountant.

Through a program with Trinity College, Alejandro has spent many hours as a tutor and a mentor for

Hartford middle school children.

During the summer Alejandro has been involved in a program called "IUVEN", where he works as a mentor

and a monitor with international youth students. The main goal of this program is to expose the kids to the

English language and a variety of different activities. Through this program he was able to travel, last year,

to the Dominican Republic on a humanitarian mission by bringing medical supplies and also helping with

ecological work. He plans to visit that country again this year on the same mission.

In High School Alejandro was in the Honor roll all of the four years. He was a CAPT Scholar in writing and

science. He was chosen to be the peer mediator to aid and resolve issues among students. He also

participated in a Junior Achievement Program to learn about the economy and how the world of finance

works. Additionally, he participated at Central Connecticut State University with a program called CPEP in

which he leaned to create a phone game for Middle School Children. While in his last year of high school he

attended college classes giving him a head start by earning 9 credits towards his degree. He graduated High

School 3rd in his class and is a current member of the National Society of Leadership and Success. In his

spare time Alejandro enjoys drawing and is attempting to learn how to animate.

AALLEEJJAANNDDRROO RROODDRRIIGGUUEEZZ SSAANN AANNDDRRÉÉSS

26

My name is Selena Iris Velez. I was born and raised in Bridgeport, Connecticut; however, have been doused

with Puerto Rican culture all my life. My grandparents were born in Puerto Rico, so I grew up with stories of

the islands sounds, people, flavors, and work ethic. Although I’m not fluent in Spanish, I aspire to someday

perfectly master the poetic language.

This fall I will be attending the University of Connecticut in Storrs, in which I will be studying Psychology,

and will potentially minor in Criminal Justice. As of right now, I don’t know what I want to pursue with this

major, however, I hope these next four years will lure me in the right direction; allowing me to find new

passions, interests, and will perhaps open up various doors.

As a first generation college student, I’ve always strived to be the best student I can possibly be; sacrificing

numerous hours each week towards my studies. I hope that my aggressive work ethic and dedication towards

my education, will ensure that I can carry that torch an extra step further and inspire my young siblings and

other Puerto Rican/Latina women to chase their dreams, and not settle for a “satisfied life”, rather to start

grasping towards a fully manifested life filled with a sense of purpose, happiness, and opportunity.

During my free time, I enjoy travelling and trying new foods (preferably different kinds of pizza). In college,

I hope to find myself studying abroad and expanding my limitations by exploring other fascinating cultures.

Aside from traveling, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, watching movies, and laughing.

A famous quote in which I strongly uphold to is one by Carolyn Birmingham, “A smile starts on the lips, a

grin spreads to the eyes, a chuckle comes from the belly; but a good laugh bursts forth from the soul,

overflows, and bubbles all around.” In other words, always laugh; never let anyone diminish your sparkle

because we all have a purpose in life, and shouldn’t lose sight in that.

SSEELLEENNAA VVÉÉLLEEZZ

27

Emily Vergara is entering her second year at the University of Connecticut as a Finance major.

During her first year at UConn, Emily worked at the Puerto Rican and Latin American Cultural

Center where she led tours and proctored presentations. She also became a member of the

UConn Dance Team.

Her commitment was displayed through her practices and attendance to games. Practices were

held a minimum of three times a week for three hours each, not including the additional hour of

workout. Emily would attend basketball and football games during the week as part of her

commitment.

The second semester, she became a member and the treasurer of the Peruvian Student

Association. She had always felt very proud of her native country and thought it would be a

great way to expose the Peruvian culture at the University of Connecticut. She reached out to

restaurants and organizations to build networks and connections around the campus and around

the state. This past summer the Peruvian Student Association was recognized by the New Haven

Peruvian Association at the annual flag ceremony.

Over the summer Emily interned at Yale University in the Gift Accounting Section. She learned

valuable skills about data entry and having to pay close attention to details. Throughout the

internship she designated large amounts of donations to assure that they were allocated to their

corresponding departments. This taught her how critical it is to efficiently allot resources and

funds throughout a multi-branched organization. Emily hopes to earn her Bachelor's Degree in

Finance and apply to UConn's MBA program.

EEMMIILLYY VVEERRGGAARRAA

28

www.collegegoalsunday.ct.org

College Goal Sunday is a valuable opportunity to get tips on planning for college and personal advice on

ways to make attending college more affordable.

In this statewide event, students and their parents will receive one-on-one, expert advice on how to

complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), the most important form needed to

secure financial aid for college.

During the month of October between the hours of 1:00 PM. to 4:00 PM., professional financial aid

personnel and other volunteers will assist high school seniors and their families. The 11 sites for 2016

include:

Sunday, October 16, 2016 Windsor High School

Saturday, October 22, 2016

Gateway Community College & New Haven Promise

Manchester Community College

Sunday, October 23, 2016

Eastern Connecticut State University

East Hartford High School

Middlesex Community College

Naugatuck Valley Community College

New London Science and Technology Magnet High School

Norwalk Community College

Hall High School

Saturday, October 29, 2016

New Britain High School & American Savings Foundation

For students who are the first in their family to attend college, the process of applying for college can seem complicated, especially finding financial resources and applying for aid to make the dream of attending college a reality. College Goal Sunday provides students and their care

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Importance of Oral Health

The Commission on Equity and Opportunity would like to invite each of you to visit our website to learn more about the importance of oral health. Not taking care of your teeth and gums can promote other illnesses within the body especially for pregnant women, for children and the elderly. Poor oral health can cause heart disease, respiratory problems and in young children can impede proper coming in of the second set of teeth or the adult teeth children will rely on for the rest of their lives. We want everyone to consider visiting a dentist or dental clinic at least twice per year and ensure that you or your children are not suffering tooth decay, gum disease or other oral health problems that may promote other diseases with long-term consequences. For more information and statistics on how we are faring in this area, please visit our website at www.cga.ct.gov/ceo and download the various documents on oral health available there for your information.

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The commission was created through SSPA 16-3 with the mandate to focus its efforts on quality

of life for members of the African-American, Asian Pacific-American and Latino and Puerto

Rican populations of the state: That all such members are (A) healthy, safe and achieve

educational success; (B) free from poverty; and (C) free from discrimination.

The Commission on Equity and Opportunity is organized into three policy divisions focusing on

issues affecting the following underrepresented and underserved populations: African

Americans, Asian Pacific Americans, and Latinos and Puerto Ricans.

For more information about the Commission on Equity and Opportunity please feel free to

contact us at:

Commission on Equity and Opportunity

18-20 Trinity Street – Suite 202

Hartford, CT 06106‑1591

(860) 240‑1424 - P

(860) 240‑1476 - F

ceo@cga.ct.gov

www.cga.ct.gov/ceo

Commission on Equity and Opportunity Mission Statement

Improve and promote the economic development, education, health and political well-being of the

African-American, Asian Pacific American and the Latino and Puerto-Rican Communities in the

State of Connecticut through advocacy, information sharing, cultural awareness, community

networking and influencing legislation.