LULAC Cincinnati – Page 2 – LULAC Cincinnati

LOEF Explores New Volunteer Partnership to Empower Local Youth

LULAC Cincinnati Event September 14, 2025September 14, 2025community, Education, Volunteering

Left to Right: Alejandro Robledo, Director of Future Mobility Design, LOEF President Laura Moese, Erin Mullen, Director of Adopt A Class and LOEF-YLP President Ricardo Ugas

September 12, 2025 – Cincinnati, OH — In a meeting focused on community impact and youth mentorship, leaders from the LULAC Ohio Educational Foundation (LOEF) and its Young Latino Professionals (YLP) division took steps toward a promising new partnership aimed at serving K–8 students in the region.
LOEF President Laura Moese and YLP President Ricardo Ugas met with Alejandro Robledo, Director of Future Mobility Design (FMD) at the University of Cincinnati, to discuss volunteer opportunities that would connect LOEF’s young professionals with meaningful service initiatives. The meeting also included Erin Mullen, Director of Adopt A Class, a nonprofit organization dedicated to mentoring students from kindergarten through eighth grade by pairing them with local professionals and role models.
The conversation centered on how LOEF’s passionate and skilled young professionals could contribute to Adopt A Class’s mission, offering mentorship, career exposure, and cultural enrichment to students across Greater Cincinnati.
The partnership would not only expand LOEF’s community outreach but also provide its members with hands-on opportunities to inspire and guide students during their formative years. With shared goals and a strong foundation of mutual respect, both organizations expressed enthusiasm about building a long-term relationship. As LOEF YLP continues to grow its network of allies and initiatives, this new connection with Adopt A Class and FMD signals a powerful step forward in fostering inclusive, community-driven change

LOEF Secures New Scholarship Sponsor Through Partnership with Hispanic Pioneer Alliance

LULAC Cincinnati Event September 14, 2025September 14, 2025Cincinnati, community, Education, Northern Kentucky, Young Latino Profesionals

September 10, 2025 – Cincinnati, OH — In a promising step toward expanding educational opportunities for Latino students, the LULAC Ohio Educational Foundation (LOEF) has welcomed a new scholarship sponsor: the Hispanic Pioneer Alliance (HPA), a recently launched organization serving Northern Kentucky and Cincinnati.

LOEF President Laura Moese and Young Latino Professional member Julieth López attended the HPA meeting by special invitation from board members Nelly Reyes and Becky Astaiza. The gathering marked a pivotal moment for collaboration between two organizations committed to uplifting the Latino community through education, leadership, and innovation.

During the meeting, Moese presented LOEF’s mission to empower Latino students and professionals through scholarships, mentorship, and community engagement. Inspired by LOEF’s impact, HPA enthusiastically agreed to become the foundation’s newest scholarship program sponsor—solidifying a partnership rooted in shared values and vision.

Founded in August 2025, HPA aims to support Latino pioneers in business, education, and civic leadership. Their decision to invest in LOEF’s scholarship initiatives signals a strong dedication to fostering talent and opportunity across the region.

🤝 The partnership is expected to open new doors for students and strengthen the network of Latino professionals working to build a more inclusive and empowered future.

As both organizations continue to grow, this collaboration stands as a testament to the power of unity, vision, and shared purpose in driving lasting change.

LOEF Celebrates Omar Brito’s Doctoral Achievement

LULAC Cincinnati Event September 14, 2025September 14, 2025community, Doctoral achievement, Education, Young Latino Profesionals

September 6, 2025 – Cincinnati, OH — The Latino community gathered in celebration and pride as Omar Brito, a distinguished member of the LOEF Young Latino Professionals (YLP), successfully defended his doctoral dissertation—marking the final milestone in his journey to earning a PhD.

Hosted at Viva Cincy restaurant, the evening was filled with joy, laughter, and admiration for Brito’s academic achievement and leadership. Among the attendees were Laura Castillo, President of the LULAC Ohio Educational Foundation (LOEF), Ricardo Ugas, President of LOEF YLP, and a vibrant mix of LOEF professionals, friends, and colleagues who came together to honor Brito’s dedication and success.

🎓 Omar’s accomplishment reflects the mission of LOEF to empower Latino professionals through education, mentorship, and community support. His journey from student to scholar has inspired many within the organization and beyond.

Omar will soon be relocating to Denver, Colorado, where he will begin his post-doctoral studies—continuing his pursuit of knowledge and contribution to his field. While his departure marks the end of a chapter in Cincinnati, his legacy within LOEF remains strong.

We’ll miss Omar deeply, but we know his future is bright! Congratulations Omar!! We are very proud of you.

LOEF @ One Night Only with Pepe

LULAC Cincinnati Event September 14, 2025September 14, 2025Art, Cincinnati, cine, community, culture

September 4, 2025 – Cincinnati, OH — The Caribbean Eye film series welcomed to the Queen City as Dominican director Nelson Carlo de los Santos Arias made a special appearance for the screening of his internationally acclaimed film Pepe. The event, held at the Esquire Theater, drew a vibrant crowd of students, professors, and community leaders, eager to engage with the visionary behind this film.

De los Santos Arias, who made history in 2024 as the first Latin American to win the Silver Bear for Best Director at the Berlin Film Festival, began his Cincinnati visit with a talk at the University of Cincinnati. Later that evening, he joined attendees for the screening of Pepe, a surreal and haunting meditation on memory, time, and identity—told from the perspective of a hippopotamus killed in the Americas. Pepe defies conventional storytelling. The film’s narrator, a disembodied voice claiming to be the spirit of the hippo, offers a fragmented, poetic reflection on existence and displacement. Its experimental style and philosophical depth have captivated audiences.

Among those in attendance were Laura Moese, President of the LULAC Ohio Educational Foundation (LOEF), Northern Kentucky University student Camilo Idrobo, and several University of Cincinnati faculty and students. The evening was hosted by UC Professor Mary Leonard, whose dedication to bringing global cinema to local audiences was celebrated throughout the event. Following the screening, de los Santos Arias participated in a lively Q&A session, fielding questions about the film’s themes, production process, and his artistic journey.

The event marked a significant moment for Cincinnati’s cultural scene, bridging international artistry with local engagement—and leaving attendees inspired by the power of film to provoke, connect, and transform.

LOEF and LULAC @ Carthage Elementary School Open House

LULAC Cincinnati Event August 29, 2025August 29, 2025Cincinnati, community, Education

Cincinnati, OH — August 28, 2025
Carthage Elementary School (CES) opened its doors to families and community members for a welcoming Open House celebration, highlighting its commitment to inclusivity and family engagement—especially among its growing Latino population.

Among the key contributors were Laura Moese, President of the LULAC Ohio Educational Foundation (LOEF); Victoria Garland, LOEF Board Member; and Lourdes Ribera, Vice President of LULAC Cincinnati. These dedicated leaders regularly collaborate with CES to provide Spanish-language translation services, ensuring that families with limited English proficiency can fully participate in their children’s education. Laura Moese also contributes as CES board member.

Working alongside Saida Canel, Latin Family Coordinator for Cincinnati Public Schools, the team was joined this time by Rosalba Arreaga, whose presence further strengthened the translation efforts. Their work allowed Spanish-speaking parents to engage meaningfully with teachers, understand academic expectations, and access school resources.

The Open House also underscored the growing partnership between CES and LULAC / LOEF—a collaboration that continues to uplift the local Latino community. Through consistent engagement, translation services, and cultural outreach, LOEF and LULAC help CES create a more inclusive environment where families feel supported and empowered. This alliance not only strengthens communication between parents and educators but also fosters trust, belonging, and educational success for Latino students across the district.

Florence Y’Alls Celebrate Latin Heritage Night with LULAC and LOEF

LULAC Cincinnati Event August 29, 2025August 29, 2025Baseball, community, Young Latino Profesionals

Florence, KY — August 22, 2025 The Florence Y’Alls Baseball Club brought vibrant energy and cultural pride to the ballpark during their annual Latin Heritage Night, hosting the Gateway Grizzlies in a spirited matchup that blended sports, community, and celebration.

In a show of support for Latino empowerment and education, the Y’Alls donated 200 tickets to Laura Moese, President of the LULAC Ohio Educational Foundation (LOEF), inviting members of LULAC and LOEF to join the festivities. The gesture underscored the team’s commitment to inclusivity and community engagement.

Before the first pitch, players of Latin heritage took to the field wrapped in flags representing their countries of origin, creating a powerful visual tribute to their roots. The pre-game ceremony featured a stirring rendition of the National Anthem by Karen Becerra, known as “La Dama del Pueblo,” whose voice set a proud and emotional tone for the evening.

The game itself was a rollercoaster of excitement. The Grizzlies came out swinging, scoring three runs in the first inning. But the Y’Alls rallied, turning the tide by the sixth inning to lead 7–5—a score that held through the final out. Meanwhile, LOEF members, in particular the Young Latino Professional Network made the most of the lively crowd, selling Split the Pot tickets to raise funds for educational scholarships. The initiative added a meaningful layer to the night, blending entertainment with purpose.

The night closed with fireworks. From the flags on the field to the cheers in the stands, Latin Heritage Night was more than just a game—it was a celebration of identity, unity, and baseball!

🎉 Viva Cinci Lights Up the Night for LOEF

LULAC Cincinnati Event August 18, 2025August 18, 2025Art, community, Happy Hour, Young Latino Profesionals

Ricardo Ugas LOEF-YLP President, Salsamberas dancing group ( Marjorie, Marisol and Alba), Tony Arreaga Viva Cinci owner and Laura Moese LOEF President

Karen Becerra, La Dama del Pueblo singer from Maxico

Wilmer, singer from Puerto Rico and DJ Tonny Mixx,

Friends of LOEF

Rhinegeist Team

WEST CHESTER, OH — August 16, 2025 — In a lively fusion of music, dance, and community spirit, Viva Cinci and Rhinegeist Brewery joined forces to support the LULAC Ohio Educational Foundation (LOEF) scholarship program. The fundraising event, held at Viva Cinci’s vibrant Mexican restaurant, turned an ordinary Saturday night into a celebration of culture and purpose.

For every purchase of a Cincy Light Lime pint paired with a tequila shot, LOEF’s scholarship fund received a $1, helping to empower Latino students across Ohio through educational opportunities. 🎶 The evening was curated by Tony Arriaga, owner of Viva Cinci and a proud member of LOEF’s Young Latino Professionals, Laura Moese, President of LOEF and Ricardo Ugas president of LOEF-YLP. As a former LOEF scholarship recipient himself, Arriaga brought personal passion and flair to the event, transforming the restaurant into a hub of entertainment and generosity.

💃 Guests were treated to a dynamic lineup of performers, beginning with the high-energy moves of the Salsamberas dancing group. The stage then lit up with the powerful vocals of Karen “La Dama del Pueblo,” a beloved singer from Mexico, followed by Wilmer, a soulful artist from Puerto Rico. DJ Tonny Mixx kept the rhythm flowing throughout the night, blending Latin beats with crowd favorites to keep the dance floor alive.

The fundraiser not only showcased the richness of Latino culture but also highlighted the power of community collaboration. With every toast and dance step, attendees contributed to a cause that uplifts future generations.

LOEF expressed deep gratitude to Viva Cinci, Rhinegeist, and all who participated, reaffirming its mission to support Latino youth through education, mentorship, and cultural celebration.

🎭 Theater Workshop Celebrates Diversity and Creativity in Cincinnati

LULAC Cincinnati Event August 15, 2025August 17, 2025Art, Cincinnati, community

Laura Moese, President of LULAC Ohio Educational Foundation, Gabriel Martinez and Karen Becerra

CINCINNATI, August 16, 2025 — In a vibrant celebration of art, emotion, and unity, Gabriel Martinez, from Dos Corazones Productions and a member of the LULAC Ohio Educational Foundation Young Latino Professionals (LOEF-YLP), led a dynamic theater workshop at the Community Happens Here Center. Designed for participants of all ages, the event blended movement, storytelling, and visual arts to explore themes of diversity, empathy, and connection.

The workshop opened with a dance session, inviting attendees to explore how body language can express a wide range of emotions. This physical introduction set the tone for a day of creative exploration and meaningful dialogue.

📚 Participants then gathered to read Gato y Pez (Cat and Fish), a whimsical yet profound story that highlights how differences can enrich relationships rather than divide them. The narrative sparked conversations about unity and the power of diversity to foster collaboration and understanding. Inspired by the book, attendees created drawings of their favorite scenes and characters, bringing their interpretations to life through color and imagination. The artistic journey continued with a captivating shadow projection performance, adding a theatrical dimension to the workshop’s message.

📝 The event concluded with a reading of a poem by Federico García Lorca, emphasizing the importance of friendship and echoing the themes found in Gato y Pescado. The poem served as a poetic bridge between literature and lived experience, leaving participants with a sense of connection and inspiration. The workshop was met with enthusiasm and joy, as families and individuals engaged in multiple art forms and thoughtful discussions. With support from ArtsWave, this initiative will soon expand to primary schools in Hartwell and Carthage, bringing its message of unity and creativity to younger audiences.

This community-centered initiative was made possible through the leadership of Laura Moese, President of the LULAC Ohio Educational Foundation (LOEF), who facilitated the partnership between Dos Corazones Productions and Community Happens Here (CHH). Her efforts were instrumental in bringing the workshop to life and ensuring its accessibility to families across Cincinnati. With support from ArtsWave, the program will soon expand to primary schools in Hartwell and Carthage. Laura Moese and LOEF are actively championing this rollout, reinforcing their commitment to empowering Latino youth and fostering inclusive community engagement through the arts.

Latin Heritage Night with the Y’All at Thomas More Stadium

LULAC Cincinnati Event August 15, 2025August 15, 2025Baseball, community, Northern Kentucky, Y'All

🌸 Summer Eve Event Blends Flowers, Wine, and Community Spirit to Support LOEF Scholarships

LULAC Cincinnati Event August 6, 2025August 16, 2025

Door prize winner

Betsy giving instructions

Fir Wine we can say Cheers!! Floral Rose and friends... Perfect evening

Lynn Love (Right) owner of Market Wines and her assistant Maryann

Arrangements for sale! all proceeds collected for LOEF scholarship fund.

CINCINNATI — August 14, 2025 — A cheerful blend of creativity and community came together Thursday evening at Market Wines in Walnut Hills, where the “Summer Eve, Flowers and Wine!” event welcomed guests for a night of floral design, conversation, and fundraising.

Organized by the LULAC Ohio Educational Foundation (LOEF), the event was open to the public and aimed to raise scholarship funds for Latino students across Ohio. The evening kicked off with door prizes for the first guest to arrive, setting a warm and welcoming tone. Each attendee received a hand made paper tropical bird ornament that might served as charming decorations for the floral arrangements—later revealed to be their entry into a surprise wine raffle.

The atmosphere was lively and relaxed, with participants enjoying wine, cheese, and friendly camaraderie. Floral designer Betsy Bowers, who generously donated her time and talent, guided attendees through the creation of unique floral arrangements. Lynn Love owner of Market Wines donated the venue and together with her assistant Maryann were very welcoming, adding to the collaborative spirit of the evening.

By the end of the night, the event was a fantastic success for LOEF scholarships, fulfilling its mission to inspire creativity while supporting educational opportunities.