I am thrilled to recount a remarkable experience I recently had, one that underscores the incredible opportunities Notre Dame affords its students.
This past weekend, I had the privilege of attending the United States Hispanic Leadership Institute's annual conference in Chicago, an opportunity made possible through the generous sponsorship of the Institute for Latino Studies. The conference was a vibrant confluence of professionals from every facet of Latino leadership, engaging in deep discussions about empowering Latinx communities through innovative strategies.
LSSP 7 student (from left to right: Christina Ayón, Aliyah Cerda, Jaylynne Calderon Monterroso, and Parker Gaines) pictured with Arturo Vargas (National Association of Latino Elected & Appointed Officials), Mark Hugo Lopez (Latinx researcher at Pew), Thomas A. Saenz (Mexican American Legal Defense & Educational Fund).
The agenda was rich with sessions covering a broad array of critical topics, including Latino civic engagement, leadership within the healthcare sector, and addressing gun violence in Latino communities as a pressing public health issue. These discussions opened my eyes to the multifaceted efforts being made toward improving healthcare access and outcomes for Latino populations, showcasing initiatives by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Pew Research Center, the White House, and various private organizations dedicated to advocating for Latino rights and welfare.
A highlight of the conference was the opportunity to engage with luminary figures such as Mark Hugo Lopez, a leading voice in Latinx research at the Pew Center; Thomas A. Saenz from the Mexican American Legal Defense & Educational Fund; and Arturo Vargas of the National Association of Latino Elected & Appointed Officials. Each interaction was not only enlightening but also immensely inspiring.
Parker Gaines (right) pictured with Dr. Antonia Novello (left), former Surgeon General of the United States. Courtesy of Parker Gaines.
Among these encounters, the most memorable was my conversation with Dr. Antonia Coello Novello, the first woman and Latina to hold the office of Surgeon General in the U.S. Our discussion revolved around my aspirations to enhance healthcare outcomes for Latinos, particularly for those without citizenship. Dr. Novello's insights were profoundly impactful, and I am honored to say she will be offering further mentorship and advice during a planned Zoom meeting this weekend.
Sharing this experience with you, I hope to highlight the exceptional opportunities Notre Dame presents to its students—opportunities that significantly contribute to our personal and professional growth. This conference reinforced my commitment to serving Latino communities and reminded me of the unique, supportive environment our campus fosters. I am grateful to you and the Institute for Latino Studies for your support and for enabling students like me to pursue our passions and make meaningful contributions to society.
