Day of The Dead … Night for the Living!
LOEF Leaders Spotlight Scholarship Opportunities on Popular Latino Podcast
Cincinnati, OH – October 10, 2025 — Laura Moese, President of the LULAC Ohio Educational Foundation (LOEF), and Ricardo Ugas, President of the LOEF Young Latino Professional Network (YLPN), joined host Mishell Vasquez on the podcast De Madres y Mujeres y un poco más for a special live broadcast on Radio Cincinnati’s Facebook channel.
The podcast focused on LOEF’s mission to empower Latino students and professionals through education and leadership development. Moese highlighted the foundation’s scholarship program, encouraging students and families to prepare for the upcoming application cycle, which opens in the first quarter of 2025. While Ugas talked about opportunities as Young professionals.
Radio Cincinnati, a widely followed platform among Cincinnati’s Latino community, provided an ideal venue to reach local families and young professionals. The podcast, known for its vibrant discussions on culture, family, and community empowerment, offered a welcoming space for LOEF to share its message.
LOEF expresses heartfelt gratitude to Mishell Vasquez for the invitation and to Álvaro Ismael of Radio Cincinnati for facilitating the live stream. “We’re thankful for the chance to connect with listeners and spread the word about our programs,” said Moese. For those who missed the live episode, the reel is available for replay Here .
Stay tuned to LOEF’s official channels for updates on scholarship deadlines, eligibility, and upcoming events.
LOEF Marks 20 Years of Empowering Latino Students at NKU Gala
Highland Heights, KY – September 18, 2025 — The LULAC Ohio Educational Foundation (LOEF) commemorated two decades of educational impact during its 20th Annual Scholarship Celebration Gala, held at the Northern Kentucky University (NKU) Student Center. The evening brought together community leaders, educators, students, and supporters to honor the legacy and future of Latino empowerment through education.
LOEF President Laura Moese led the evening’s program, expressing heartfelt gratitude to NKU for hosting the gala for more than half of its twenty-year history. In her remarks, Moese traced LOEF’s roots from the founding of the national LULAC organization in 1923, to the establishment of LULAC Cincinnati in 2007, and finally to LOEF’s creation in 2022—formed to better serve the educational mission of the Cincinnati council.
The gala honored the foundational members of LULAC Cincinnati and recognized the sponsors whose unwavering support has fueled LOEF’s mission. Moese thanked longtime partners such as Procter & Gamble, the Center for Closing the Health Gap, Mr. & Mrs John Pepper and numerous private businesses and families who have contributed to the success of Latino students across the region.
While dinner was being served, guests were moved by heartfelt testimonials from scholarship recipients, sharing how LOEF’s support helped them overcome barriers and pursue their academic dreams. The evening was further enriched by a musical performance from Karen, “La Dama del Pueblo,” who captivated the audience with traditional Mexican ballads. Alicia Pagan and her husband Ray also took the stage to present a new initiative: a proposed Day of Volunteerism in honor of civil rights icons Dolores Huerta and César Chávez. They performed a song once sung by Huerta and Chávez during their advocacy for farmworkers’ rights—a poetic tribute to equality, with lyrics reminding us that “the sun gives its warmth to all equally.”
Keynote speaker Dr. Adriana Altuve, Vice President at Procter & Gamble, delivered a powerful and deeply personal address. She shared her journey of escaping political hardship in Cuba, pursuing her education in Mexico, and ultimately rising to executive leadership at P&G. Her story of resilience, determination, and purpose resonated with the audience, offering valuable lessons on perseverance, identity, and the importance of mentorship in overcoming adversity.
A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Rosa Maria Moreno (RMM) Lifetime Achievement Award, bestowed upon Moreno for her 40-year dedication to education and her pivotal role in selecting LOEF scholarship recipients over the past two decades. Her leadership helped LOEF become the top-performing LULAC council nationwide in scholarship grants over the last four years. The RMM award was also presented to Leo Calderon and Irene Encarnacion, honoring their four decades of service as educators and their impactful work with the Esperanza Latino Center.
Jonaiker Villalobos, pitcher for the Florence Y’Alls, received the Community Leader Award for his efforts in launching and sustaining the Latin Heritage Night, now a celebrated tradition for the past three years.
In a powerful conclusion to the evening, LOEF awarded 42 scholarships to students from Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky, reinforcing its commitment to helping Latino youth achieve their college dreams and build brighter futures.
The gala served not only as a celebration of past achievements but as a reaffirmation of LOEF’s enduring mission: to uplift the next generation of Latino leaders through education, opportunity, and community support.
Cindependent Present Camilo Idobro’s Cruza El Valle
Cincinnati Compass Recognize LULAC and LOEF Leaders
September 12, 2025 – Cincinnati, OH — The city came alive with vibrant sounds and cultural pride as Cincinnati Compass hosted the fifth edition of Cincinnati Rhythm, a dynamic celebration of immigrant artistry and community leadership. Held in the heart of the city, the event showcased the rich diversity that defines Cincinnati’s cultural landscape.
🎶 The evening featured electrifying performances from a global lineup of artists, including Ijo Ugo, an African performance art company known for its powerful storytelling through movement; the Cultural Centre of India dance studio, which brought classical and contemporary Indian dance to the stage; and Son del Caribe, a beloved 11-piece salsa band that had the crowd dancing with their classic Latin rhythms. DJ Shemizo Ndetoh kept the energy flowing with an eclectic mix that bridged continents and generations.
🌟 In addition to the performances, Cincinnati Rhythm honored two outstanding leaders whose work has uplifted the Latino community. Lourdes Ribera, longtime president and now vice president of LULAC Cincinnati, received the Legacy Award for her decades of advocacy and service. Laura Castillo, a rising leader in public administration and active member of LOEF Young Latino Professionals (YLP), was presented with the Rising Star Award in recognition of her impactful leadership and dedication to public service.
The Latino community showed up in full force to support and celebrate their honorees, filling the venue with warmth, pride, and unity. The evening served as a reminder that Cincinnati’s rhythm is shaped by the many cultures that call it home—and that the beat only grows stronger when we celebrate together.
LOEF host Evening of Song for a Cause at Market Wines
September 11, 2025 – Walnut Hills, Cincinnati, OH — On a picturesque evening filled with music, warmth, and generosity, the LULAC Ohio Educational Foundation (LOEF) hosted An Evening of Song for a Cause at Market Wines in Walnut Hills. The event brought together community members, supporters, and music lovers to celebrate Latino culture and raise funds for youth initiatives.
The venue, graciously donated by Lynn Love, owner of Market Wines, provided the perfect backdrop for the evening. Market Wines, a woman-owned minority business, is known not only for its curated wine selections but also for its commitment to uplifting local communities.
🎶 The highlight of the night was a stunning performance by Ana Karen, affectionately known as La Dama del Pueblo. Her emotive voice carried through the air as she delivered a heartfelt repertoire of traditional and contemporary songs, captivating the audience and honoring the spirit of cultural pride and youth empowerment. Gracias por el apoyo a la juventud, Ana Karen!!
Guests mingled under the pleasant skies, reconnecting with old friends and forming new bonds. A wine raffle added a festive touch to the evening, that was possible by an enthusiastic group of local scientist. Thank you for your support!! The lucky winner took home a bottle of Cocodrillo (Cocodrile), a rich Argentinian blend with a name as bold as its flavor.
“Events like this remind us why we do what we do,” said LOEF board member, Victoria Garland. “It’s about coming together, sharing joy, and giving back to the community that inspires us.” The warm reception from attendees reaffirmed LOEF’s mission to foster connection and support through creative, inclusive gatherings. With fall on the horizon, LOEF promises more events that continue to celebrate culture, community, and cause.
🌟 Stay tuned for what’s next—hasta luego, amigos!
LOEF Explores New Volunteer Partnership to Empower Local Youth
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
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
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
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.