Latin Heritage Night with the Y’All at Thomas More Stadium
Northern Kentucky
Latino Student Leaders were Honored At NKU Alegría
Highland Heights, Ky. – April 26, 2025 – Northern Kentucky University (NKU) hosted NKU Alegría, a vibrant celebration honoring Latino students who have made a significant impact during the 2024-2025 academic year. The event recognized outstanding achievements, leadership, and dedication to fostering a supportive community for fellow students.
Maggie Perez, President of the LULAC NKU Student Council, and her sister, Melissa Perez, extended the invitation to Lourdes Ribera, President of LULAC Cincinnati, and Laura Moese, President of the LULAC Ohio Educational Foundation (LOEF). Family members and fellow council members joined the festivities as the Office of Latino Student Initiatives (LSI) celebrated student excellence.
During the ceremony, Maggie Perez was honored with the LSI Senior Award, recognizing her academic achievements and leadership. Melissa Perez received the LAMP Mentor of the Year Award for her commitment to guiding and uplifting her peers. Additionally, Dayna Bernardo was presented with a Service Award, while Katherine Jantes earned the Impact Award for her contributions to student success.
Adding to the significance of the evening, LSI invited former director Tiburcio Lince to present awards to graduating seniors, acknowledging their dedication and perseverance.
The event allowed networking where Laura Moese had the opportunity to present LOEF’s mission and its ongoing efforts to support Latino students to Brendon Thompson, NKU’s Vice President of Student Affairs, and Nicole Froning, Manager of NKU Student Affairs Enrollment.
The event was a resounding success, bringing together students, mentors, and advocates to celebrate the passion and commitment of Latino student leaders. Through recognition, encouragement, and shared achievements, NKU Alegría highlighted the powerful impact of community and educational empowerment.
LULAC and LOEF @the ELL foundation Annual Recognition Breakfast
Highland Heights, Feb 27, 2025 – The English Language Learning (ELL) Foundation held its Annual Recognition Breakfast at Northern Kentucky University’s (NKU) Student Union, under the inspiring motto “Leaping Forward: Global Voices, Local Impact.” This event is a heartfelt celebration of the exceptional accomplishments of bright English language (EL) students, caring educators, and community organizations that have made significant contributions.
Every year, the ELL Foundation invites a diverse group of donors, students, educators, and community friends to join in honoring the successes and resilience of EL students overcoming adversities. This year was no exception, as the community gathered to celebrate and recognize those who have made impactful strides.
During the Recognition Breakfast, the Foundation awarded honors to the Students of the Year, Educator of the Year, Community Ally of the Year, and the prestigious Make a Difference Award. These accolades are a testament to the dedication and hard work of those involved in promoting and supporting English language learning.
The event also serves as the main fundraising effort for the ELL Foundation Scholarship program, which provides opportunities for English language learners to pursue higher education at accredited area colleges and universities. This year’s breakfast was pivotal in raising the necessary funds to continue this crucial support.
Lourdes Ribera, President of LULAC Cincinnati; Laura Moese, President of the LULAC Ohio Educational Foundation; and Maider Marin McGee, LULAC and LOEF board member were in attendance to Support Rosa Moreno, LOEF Director of Higher Education with ELL. Their presence underscored the partnership between the ELL Foundation and these prominent organizations, as they came together to celebrate the accomplishments of LOEF and LULAC council members who were recognized during the event.
LULAC and LOEF congratulate to all the honored students and Professional in this Event.
The Annual Recognition Breakfast remains a cherished tradition, embodying the spirit of unity and progress, and highlighting the powerful impact of community support on the lives of English language learners.
LULAC and LOEF@ Esperanza Latino Gala Fiesta 2024
Highland Heights, KY, Dec 7, 2024 – The Esperanza Latino Center (ELC) marked its 6th annual fundraising gala with a vibrant celebration at the NKU Ballroom. This event underscored the crucial role of networking and nurturing partnerships with other Latino institutions. The evening commenced with an enchanting performance by a Latin group playing instrumental music from the 60s and 70s, setting a festive and nostalgic tone. Followed by a delicious buffet dinner. After which The MC gave us a summary of ELC major impacts and its pillars on the community. Scholarship were announced and then the floor was open for dancing.
Notable attendees included Dr. Diane McGill, Northern Kentucky University (NKU) Provost, Lourdes Rivera, President of LULAC Cincinnati; Laura Moese, President of the LULAC Ohio Educational Foundation (LOEF); Alfonso Cornejo from Hispanic Chamber Cincinnati USA (HCCUSA) and Maider Marin McGee, LULAC/LOEF Communications. The event also saw the presence of many other leaders from the Latin community, all uniting to support the ELC and its mission. Their collective participation exemplified the power of community solidarity and the impact of strong partnerships in driving progress and empowerment within the Latino community.
Events like the ELC’s fundraising gala are vital in building networks, sharing resources, and fostering a sense of community that transcends individual organizations. By working together, Latino institutions can achieve greater successes and create lasting positive change.