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For the graduating class of
The University of Michigan’s Eleventh Annual
Friday, April 30, 2010 | 8:00pm Lydia Mendelssohn Theatre
Program of Events
!Felicidades!
Host/Jaden Osuna Felix
Opening Remarks/Lester P. Monts, Ph.D.
Student Speaker/Valentina Stackl
Keynote Speaker/Darys Estrella Mordán
Circle Award History and Previous Recipients
Circle Award Presentation
Class of 2010
La Celebración Latina/A Brief History
* North American Navajo hunter
* Pottery design from San Ildefonso (“Where the water cuts through”) Pueblo, New Mexico.
I join with the community in recognizing your accomplishments and share a tremendous sense of optimism that life will offer you many more successes in the years to come. With high expectations, we bid you farewell and wish you the best in your future endeavors.
The annual commencement day, where academic degrees are conferred on hundreds of students, is one of the most important times of the University of Michigan community. This is a day when the efforts of our students as well as their families, colleagues, friends, faculty and alumni are recognized.
The 11th annual La Celebración Latina is a time for reflection and for looking ahead. This special event complements the various commencement exercises on campus and provides the opportunity to highlight and celebrate the achieve-ments of graduating Latina/o Hispanic students at the University of Michigan. The 2010 student planning committee decided that this year’s theme would be Perspectiva/Perspective.
The theme was chosen to represent and acknowledge the unique skills, voice and perspective that our graduating students have brought to our community and will continue to share in future endeavors. It is within this vein of Perspec-tiva that the 2010 graduates embrace and solidify their commitment to stay connected to their beloved communities. While working diligently and making significant sacrifices, they served others through community engagement ef-forts and made a difference. On this day, we stand as a community to share in their celebration.
Graduates, your destination may not be known, but we trust that the Univer-sity of Michigan has provided you with the essential tools and solid academic background to succeed, no matter where the future takes you. Acuérdense que siempre tendran un hogar aquí en Michigan.
As proud graduates of this wonderful institution, be ever mindful that many opportunities and challenges lie ahead of you. We hope that you will take ad-vantage of all opportunities and be an instrument of change in negotiating the challenges that we all are facing. We honor you today, knowing your success will be measured ultimately by the future contributions that you make to your community and to society at large.
The graduating class of 2010 has been given the awesome responsibility of preserving the best of its community and continuing the successes of many, many people and ideas–both from the past and the future. I know you are up to the task.
¡Felicidades!
Lester Monts, Ph.D.
Senior Vice Provost for Academic Affairs, Senior Counselor to the President for the Arts, Diversity, and Undergraduate Affairs Arthur F. Thurnau Professor of Music
Jaden Osuna Felix
Jaden Osuna Felix was the advisor to the 2010 La Celebración Latina Planning Committee. He previously worked in the Office of Student Activities and Leader-ship (SAL) at University of Michigan where he advised student organizations on a wide array of topics, including funding, event planning, goal setting, and University policies. He was co–chair of Student Affairs Programming Council, which distributed funds to student organizations and was a committee member of Arts at Michigan, which allocated funds to art related student organization events on–campus. He was involved in the planning committees for Leadership Connection, Intercultural Leadership Seminar, Ethics in Leadership, and the Sullivan Fellowship Academy; all student leadership development initiatives at University of Michigan.
He currently works in the Office of Greek Life and Intercultural Education at the University of Texas, Austin where he is able to combine his passion for leadership development, social justice and student organizations. He advises the National Pan-Hellenic Council, Multicultural Greek Council, and the Latino Pan–Hellenic Council, which represents over twenty Greek lettered organiza-tions in the Latino, African American and multicultural communities. He will begin co–teaching a for credit Greek Leadership Course in the Fall and plans to pursue a Masters degree within the Higher Education Administration Program at University of Texas soon.
Jaden was born and raised in Fresno, California and graduated from University of Michigan with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science. He is an active member of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute Alumni Association, Hispanic Alumni Council and Sigma Lambda Beta International Fraternity, Alumni Association.
La Celebración Latina Planning Committee AdvisorGreek Life Coordinator in the Office of Greek Life and Intercultural Education University of Texas, Austin
* Ancient Aztec Serpent
Valentina StacklMaster of Public Health
Born in Vienna, Austria, Valentina Stackl has a perspectiva perfect to be this year’s student speaker. The uniqueness of an Austrian father and a Chilean mother set the cultural background to an incredible student experience at the University of Michigan. She graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Sci-ence and Creative Writing from University of Michigan in 2008 and will be graduating with a Master of Public Health today. She hopes to address health disparities and injustices that plague the Latino community by working in Washington D.C. During her time at University of Michigan, she resurrected the Latino public health organization, La Salud and contributed to this year’s La Celebración Latina Planning Committee.
Lester Monts, Ph.D.
Dr. Lester P. Monts has served as an academic administrator and Professor of Music at the University of Michigan since 1993. He received a Bachelor of Arts degree in music education from Arkansas Polytechnic College, a Master of Music degree in trumpet performance from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, and a Doctorate in Musicology from the University of Minnesota. He has served on the faculties of Edinboro University, University of Minnesota, Case West-ern Reserve University, and the University of California, Santa Barbara. From 1988-1993, he served as Dean of Undergraduate Affairs in the College of Letters and Science, and in that role, directed Santa Barbara’s Undergraduate Honors Program.
Dr. Monts has focused his scholarly research on the musical and cultural systems among the Vai people of Liberia and is regarded as one of the world’s leading scholars on music and culture in the Guinea coast region of West Africa. His book, Vai Musical Language, is published by the Societe d’Etudes Linguis-tiques et Anthropologiques de France; it explores Vai folk etymologies related to the intersection between music and other linguistic phenomena. He is currently working on another book that examines the influence of Islam on the continu-ity and change of music in funerary rituals among the Vai. He has presented his research at the conferences of many national and international learned societies, including the Society for Ethnomusicology, the African Studies Association, and the American Anthropological Association.
Dr. Monts has more than 17 departments that report to him including the Office of Undergraduate Admissions, the Office of Financial Aid, the Office of Academ-ic Multicultural Initiatives, the Office of the Registrar, the Office of New Student Programs, the Center for Research on Learning and Teaching, the National Center for Institutional Diversity, and the Center for Educational Outreach. He recently served three years as Chairman of the Board of the College Board.
Senior Vice Provost for Academic Affairs, Senior Counselor to the President for the Arts, Diversity, and Undergraduate Affairs Arthur F. Thurnau Professor of Music
Darys Estrella Mordán became the CEO of the Dominican Republic’s Stock Ex-change (BVRD) in April 2007. She went to the BVRD after working five years in the Fixed Income Currency and Commodities and the Human Capital Manage-ment divisions of Goldman Sachs & Co, where she was a Vice President. Before joining Goldman, Ms. Estrella spent seven years at the hedge fund Deltec Asset Management as a Vice President in the Emerging Markets Fixed Income Divi-sion covering Latin America.
Mrs. Estrella was selected as Young Global Leader in March 2008 by the World Economic Forum. In September 2008, she received The Presidential Medal by the City University of New York, the highest honor given by that institution. In October 2008, she received the Professional of the Year award given by the Dominican American National Roundtable.
In May 2009, Mrs. Estrella was selected as one of the Top 25 Latinas (along with Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor and Soledad O’Brien, among others) in the New York, New Jersey, Connecticut region by El Diario La Prensa. She is Secretary of La Asociación de Bolsas de Centroamérica y el Caribe (BOLCEN), a consortium network of seven capital markets exchanges in Central America and the Caribbean. She is also a member of the University of Michigan Stephen M. Ross Business School’s Alumni Board of Governors and a member of the Interna-tional Advisory Council of Fundacion dom Cabral in Brazil.
Mrs. Estrella’s prior civic activities have included serving on the boards of Dominicans on Wall Street (DOWS), where she was a co-founder and two–term President, the Dominican American Chamber of Commerce, the Dominican Women’s Development Center and the Association of Latino Professionals in Finance and Accounting.
Mrs. Estrella received her Bachelor of Arts from Vassar College and her Master of Business Adminstration from the University of Michigan. She completed the Executive Program at the Harvard John F. Kennedy School of Government on Leadership for the 21st Century.
Mrs. Estrella lives in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, with her huband Andrew Wilson. They have three children: Yan Diego, Maya Isabel and Javier Alberto.
Darys Estrella Mordán
Chief Executive Officer of the Dominican
Republic’s Stock Exchange (BVRD)
Monica Ponce DeLeon, Ph.D.Dean of A. Alfred Taubman College of Architecture and Urban Planning
Maria DeLos Angeles Torres, Ph.D. Director of Latin American Latino Studies, University of Illinois at Chicago
Catherine Benamou, Ph.D.Associate Professor of Screen Arts and Cultures and Associate Professor of
American Culture, College of Literature, Science, and the Arts
Neil Foley, Ph.D.Associate Professor of History and American Studies and Associate Dean of
the College of Liberal Arts at the University of Texas
Cecilia Muñoz Vice President of the Office of Research, Advocacy and Legislation at the
National Council of La Raza
Diane N. DeHoyosGeneral Motors
Ricardo MuñozAlderman —22nd Ward, City of Chicago
Dr. Juan Andrade, Jr.President, United States Hispanic Leadership Institute
Juan E. Mestas, Ph.D. Chancellor, Professor of Foreign Languages, University of Michigan—Flint
Aida Hurtado, Ph.D.Professor of Psychology, University of California—Santa Cruz
* The Circle Award symbol is derived from the Mayan Sky Clan. The symbol has three central meanings: Question, Fearlessness & Intelligence.
The Circle Award has been a central element of La Celebración Latina since the inaugural ceremony in 2000. As we celebrate the eleventh year of both La Cel-ebración Latina and the Circle Award, the motivation behind the award remains consistent. Among family and friends, we honor persons who have made sig-nificant contributions to the harmony and strength of the Latino and University communities through their work, leadership and service. It is in the tradition of recognizing others for their contributions to our community that the 2010 La Celebración Latina planning committee has selected this year’s award recipients. Tonight, we are honored to present the 2010 Circle Award to three awardees for their positive impact on the University of Michigan community and the lives of people everywhere. Let us celebrate the achievements, leadership and unwaver-ing commitment to their work and community, as exemplified by Dr. Melissa Valerio, Dr. Lourdes Velez and Dr. Ruth Behar.
John A. Vasquez
Dr. Larry LaFountain–Stokes
Dr. Maria Eugenia Cotera and Dr. Robert M. Ortega
Patricia Aqui Pacania and Dr. Millie Tirado
Silvia Mayers
Steven Abbott
Donney Kyra Maritza Moroney
Roxanna Duntley–Matos and Tomas Hulick Baiza
Dr. Margarita DeLa Vega–Hurtado, Dr. Tomas Almaguer and Dr. Frances Aparicio
Katalina Berdy and Eliana Mayo Raggio
Ruth Behar was born in Havana, Cuba and grew up in New York City. Among her many honors, she is the recipient of a MacArthur “genius” Award, a John Simon Guggenheim Fellowship, two Fulbright Senior Fellowships, and a Distinguished Alumna Award from Wesleyan University. Latina Magazine named her, in 1999, one of the 50 Latinas who made history in the twentieth century.
Behar has worked as an ethnographer in Spain, Mexico, and Cuba. She calls herself a cultural anthropologist who specializes in homesickness. Her books include The Presence of the Past in a Spanish Village; Translated Woman: Cross-ing the Border with Esperanza’s Story; The Vulnerable Observer: Anthropology That Breaks Your Heart, and An Island Called Home: Returning to Jewish Cuba. Behar is co–editor of Women Writing Culture, which has become a central text in debates about the literary turn in anthropology, and editor of Bridges to Cuba, a pioneering forum of culture and art by Cubans on the island and in the diaspo-ra. Most recently she co–edited a new anthology of reflexive essays by Cubans in the international diaspora, The Portable Island: Cubans at Home in the World. Her work is internationally recognized and she has lectured in universities, cultural centers, and conferences in the U.S., Latin America, Europe, and Israel. Her ability to address the complexity of mixed identities as a Jew of Cuban heritage has placed her in the unique role of being a bridge between Latino and Jewish communities.
A respected, visible, and provocative scholar, Behar is also known for her essays, poetry, fiction, and work as a documentary filmmaker. Her classic essay, “Juban América,” appeared in King David’s Harp: Autobiographical Essays by Jewish Latin American Writers and her short story, “La Cortada,” was selected by Joyce Carol Oates for inclusion in Telling Stories: An Anthology for Writers. Behar’s poems have been published in Burnt Sugar/Caña Quemada: Contemporary Cu-ban Poetry in English and Spanish, Sephardic American Voices: Two Hundred Years of a Literary Legacy, Little Havana Blues: A Cuban–American Literature Anthology, and The Prairie Schooner Anthology of Jewish–American Writers. Her collection of prose poems, Everything I Kept/Todo lo que guardé, was pub-lished in 2001 in Matanzas, Cuba, by Ediciones Vigía, an editorial collective that produces handmade artisanal books in small editions.
Ruth Behar, Ph.D.Professor of Anthropology, College of Literature, Science and the Arts
(Continued)
Melissa Valerio is Assistant Professor of Health Behavior and Health Education in the University of Michigan’s School of Public Health.
She received her B.A. in History from the University of Texas at Austin in 1997, a M.P.H. from the University of Michigan in 2001, and her Ph.D. in Health and Behavior and Health Education from the University of Michigan in 2006.
Dr. Valerio joined the department in 2007. Her research is focused on the identification of strategies for improvement of chronic disease management in marginalized and underserved populations. She is currently assessing the un-derstanding of oral health needs of adults with type 2 diabetes and conducting an evaluation of a type 2 diabetes prevention program for adolescents.
Professor Valerio's interests include chronic disease management and preven-tion, the design and evaluation of effective health education materials and pro-grams, and survey methods. She is particularly interested in health literacy and cultural competence issues related to health education and communication. She is also faculty with the Center for Managing Chronic Disease at the University of Michigan.
Dr. Valerio is also the Principal Investigator of a study evaluating an education-al intervention to improve asthma management through reduction of asthma-related health literacy in an underserved adult population.
Behar wrote, directed, and produced Adio Kerida/Goodbye Dear Love: A Cuban Sephardic Journey, an 82-minute video documentary distributed by Women Make Movies (www.wmm.com). The documentary is based on the life stories of Sephardic Cuban Jews living in Cuba, Miami, and New York. It has been shown in film festivals all over the world. Her latest book, An Island Called Home: Returning to Jewish Cuba, follows up on her interest in visual ethnography and creative nonfiction, creating an unusual blend of memoir, reportage, and images to portray the Jewish community she might have been a part of had her family stayed in Cuba.
Behar received her B.A. in Letters (1977) from Wesleyan University, and her M.A. (1980) and Ph.D. in Cultural Anthropology (1983) from Princeton Univer-sity. She is Professor of Anthropology at the University of Michigan, where she is also affiliated with programs in Women’s Studies, Latina/o Studies, Latin American and Caribbean Studies, and Jewish Studies. During the winter of 2010, Behar founded and directed the University of Michigan Semester Abroad Program in Havana, Cuba. Further information about her work is available on her web site: www.ruthbehar.com.
Melissa Valerio, Ph.D.Assistant Professor of Health Behavior and Health Education, School of Public Health
Dr. Lourdes Velez received her M.D. in 1983 from the San Juan Bautista School of Medicine in San Juan, Puerto Rico. She currently is an assistant professor in the U-M Medical School’s Department of Family Medicine, and Director of the Latino Health Program, Ypsilanti Family Medicine.
Her specialty is in family medicine and her research and interests are in diabetes mellitus, geriatrics, hospice and palliative care. Dr. Velez holds board certifica-tions from the American Board of Family Medicine, and the American Board of Geriatric Medicine.
Dr. Velez is a member of a team of physicians that received a $10 million grant for Alzheimer’s disease research from the National Institute on Aging, which is part of the National Institutes of Health. She is responsible for directing the Minor-ity Satellite Diagnostics and Treatment Center. Dr. Velez is engaged in numerous community projects and works tirelessly to find solutions to various illnesses that impact the elderly. She is highly regarded by the patients that she serves.
Lourdes Velez, M.D.Assistant Professor of Family Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School
* Ancient Toltec circular design depicting the winds
“With thanks, dedications and Maize & Blue memories”
Class of
I want to thank my incredibly strong mother who has never wavered once in her devotion to my education and ulti-mate success. Without her unfaltering guidance, I would have found myself helpless on this remarkable journey. I have been blessed with an incredibly supportive family, in particular my grandparents who were there every step of the way and my siblings who have shown me nothing but love and support. My friends have helped shape me into the person I am today and made Ann Arbor my home away from home. I will always remember the four musketeers, divinity*, the revivals and all of the amazing relationships and memories I’ve made in Michigan.
Emanuel A. Alvarez
CollegeLiterature, Science and the Arts
BachelorofScienceOceanography
I would like to thank everyone who has made my last four years possible. To my friends, thank you for making my time at U of M memorable and filled with laughter. To my family —thank your for the constant support, advice, and guidance. And most importantly, I would like to thank my parents. Without both of you, I would not be here today. Words cannot express my appreciation for everything you have done for me and for the unconditional love you have provided me with. Because of you, I have been able to live my dreams. I love you!
Alyssia M. Benejam
CollegeLiterature, Science and the Arts
BachelorofArtsEnglish
I would like to thank my family and parents who made this possible, I would be lost without you, thank you for every-thing. Go Blue!
Ximena Flores Carvajal
CollegeLiterature, Science and the Arts
BachelorofArtsPolitical Science
I would like to thank my family for their continued support and encouragement. I can say with certainty that I would not be attending law school in the fall had it not been for all of your hard work. You’re there when I need consoling, when I need motivation, when I need financial assistance (which we all know is often), when I need a home–cooked meal, and when I need general life advice (which is also often). I deeply appreciate your push to get me to aim high, achieve my goals, and continue on the path to becoming the woman I want to be. I love you!
Jessica Cornwell
CollegeLiterature, Science and the Arts
BachelorofArtsSociology and Spanish with a sub–concentration in Economy, Business and Society
My favorite quote from author and feminist Bell Hooks reads, “The transformative power of love is not fully em-braced in our society because we often wrongly believe that torment and anguish are our ‘natural’ condition.” This can be applied to any aspect of my life, but specifically relates to these past five years. Five years that have been an ultimate journey of love.
Firstly I would not be here without the love and support of my mother, my rock and of course my sisters who have both allowed me to focus on my studies and understand why I haven’t been able to have such an active role at home.
I have grown to love myself for who I am and where I’ve come from, reminding myself each and everyday I deserve this opportunity and can persevere.
Realizing that love is a choice and a lifestyle, I have been able to embrace and display this love to the campus through my endeavors with Zeta Sigma Chi Multicultural Sorority, Inc. and the promotion of social justice and equality!
Graduating embodies Love, the love I’ve received from my family and friends, the love I have for everyone in the world and the legacy of love I leave in everything I pursue.
Brittany Chulis
CollegeLiterature, Science and the Arts
BachelorofArtsPolitical Science
Primero quería darles gracias a mis padres que sin el apoyo que me han dado nunca hubiera llegado a esta universidad ni tampoco hubiera llegado a este momento. Los amo mas que les puedo explicar y siempre van a estar en mi corazón. A mi hermana Karla que ha estado conmigo en los últimos años no te puedo decir cuan feliz estoy de que estés en esta universidad y se que vas a seguir adelante como lo has hecho. Al resto de mi familia les doy las gracias y siempre están en mis pensamientos.
To everyone in this community who have made this time here memorable I thank you all. Edgar, Frank and Hector you are all like my brothers and I will never forget you and all the memories we have. Alejandro and Will G we started strong and ended with our Tuesdays. Lastly from words of one of my Fathers favorite songs:
“Todo pasa y todo quedaPero lo nuestro es pasarPasar haciendo caminoCamino sobre la marNunca perseguí la gloriaNi dejar la memoriaDe los hombres mi canciónYo amo los mundos sutilesIngravidos y gentilesComo pompas de jabón
Me gusta verlos pintarseDe Sol y grana volarBajo el cielo azul temblarSúbitamente y quebrarseNunca perseguí la gloria
Caminante son tus huellas el camino y nada masCaminante no hay camino, se hace camino al andarAl andar, se hace camino, y al volver la vista atrásSe ve la senda que nunca se ha de volver a pisarCaminante no hay camino, sino estelas en la mar”
Luis Fernandez
CollegeLiterature, Science and the Arts
BachelorofArtsScreen Arts and Culture
Ramon de la Cruz, Esq.
CollegeStephen M. Ross School of Business
MBAMaster of Business Administration
Congratulations to my fellow Hispanos! Thank you to all who have come this path before and have paved the way so I could succeed. Especially mom and dad (Encarnacion y Regino de la Cruz) Thank you y los quiero!
Luz Adriana Caudillo Fuentes
CollegeRackham
DoctorateIndustrial and Operations Engineering
Gracias a mis padres estoy logrando y triunfando haciendo mis sueños realidad porque ellos siempre creyeron en mi. Todo el trabajo que he dedicado para graduarme de la Universidad de Michigan es todo el empeño que mis padres me han enseñado valorar desde pequeña. Hasta este día no puedo creer que el sueño y deseo que tuve a los 13 años de ser una estudiante y graduarme de Michigan se esté haciendo realidad. Mama y papa, gracias por estar allí cada vez que los necesitaba, por creer en mí, y saber que un día su hija iba a ser alguien. Sin ustedes no estaría aquí en este día tan especial y disfrutarlo con ustedes. A’pa, gracias por siempre decirme que mi educación era y es lo más impor-tante de la vida, sin sus palabras no me hubiera guillado en este camino. A’ma, gracias por siempre empujarme porque sabias que yo si podía hacerlo, y Lori, gracias por ser la me-jor hermana estando allí por mi, por eso siempre les estaré agradecida. Los amo con todo mi corazón y alma.
Lyssette Galvan
CollegeLiterature, Science and the Arts
BachelorofArtsEnglish
College has been a life changing time for me. I’ve learned more of myself than I think I ever will, and I can only thank those whom have guided me in these times. Thank you to those who have played this part, especially my fraternity brothers. Thanks bros. And thanks to my parents and fam-ily back home (close friends included in my family). I love you all.
William H. Gonzalez Jr
CollegeLiterature, Science and the Arts
BachelorofArtsAmerican Culture
Le debo gracias a Dios, porque es El que ha hecho esto posible. A mi mami y papi, quienes desde pequeño me han apoyado en mis estudios. Sin ellos no sería el hombre quien soy y siempre llevo sus consejos y enseñanzas conmigo. A mis hermanitos, Iván y Sammy, los adoro y sé que llegaran aquí donde yo estoy en el futuro. Nunca se olviden que los quiero mucho, y los llevo en el corazón. Sigan adelante y tendrán éxito en cualquier cosa en que se esfuercen. A mi Tía Vita, mi segunda mamá, la adoro y le debo tanto a usted, gracias. A mi familia en El Salvador y Los Ángeles, el chele siempre se acuerda de todas las lindas memorias que hemos pasado y les doy gracias por su cariño, amor, y respeto. Diana, aunque hemos estado lejos este año, sabiendo que estoy contigo me lo ha hecho tan maravilloso. Gracias por siempre apoyarme amor. Luis, siempre serás mi pana loko y el único que entiende el Reggaetón como yo, felicidades a ti también. A todos mis amigos, gracias por todo, nunca los olvidare!
To my untouchable brothers of Lambda Theta Phi, thank you for making my life here so memorable. All of you have contributed to my unforgettable experience at Michigan and I will miss you dearly. Shout out to Nox, Will, Ty, and Germ! To Mu and Nu line, your PM loves yall. FYI, Lamb-das always win and #5’s are the best!
Edgar Gamez
CollegeStephen M. Ross School of Business
BachelorofBusinessAdministrationBusiness Administration
Vanessa Hutzley
CollegeLiterature, Science and the Arts
BachelorofArtsBachelorofScienceSpanish Biology
I would like to thank God for all the opportunities, people, and memories that I have been blessed with, my family, especially My dad who never fails to show how proud he is of me, mi Mama who always finds a way to make me feel better when no one else can, and mi hermanita Samantha (Jin Sushi!), who I love with all my heart because there is no one that understands me like she can. Without them I would not be the person that I am today, and I would not have been able to overcome all the obstacles that life has thrown at me. I would like to thank my sisters, LTA is the only way! LS’s I have two words! Helmet Hair! Monty, Isa, Sharida, Marlita we did it and we did it well LOL!! Lani, An–gel–lick, JC, Yvette, Carlita, Sexy pants, Ramen Noo-dles, Nunee, Tisheka Lashonda, Lauren I only have love for you all! You all have taught me to never give up and to continue to believe in myself no matter what. I could never be more thankful for the support and faith you have given me this year. Don’t Quit ladies, I know you will only con-tinue the glory! I would like to thank all my other friends here. Julz (Princess SAB) you already know. Everyone one of you has changed my life in some special way. I will never forget you or the memories that we shared. That’s what She SAID! DALE LOVES!!
Sorry Dad for the past four years that have been so expen-sive! I want to thank my family present and not for sharing this experience with me, you’ve all helped me get to where I am now. For Mami, although you’ve passed, you have in-stilled in me a love for history and culture that has shaped me in so many ways. I also want to thank my aunts, uncles, Mama–Trice and Papa Veda for the support they have given me during good and bad times.
Christian D. Jimenez
CollegeLiterature, Science and the Arts
BachelorofArtsAnthropology and the History of Art
Kristina Lopez
CollegeSchool of Social Work
MasterofSocialWorkSocial Work
Thank you mom and dad for believing in my dreams with me. Thank you for reminding me of my inner strengths and for wishing me the best throughout my journey. Second, thank you Grandma Paula, Grandma Theresa, Grandpa Kneen, and Grandpa Gil for being the foundation for my cultural pride, humility, compassion, courage, and deter-mination. Third, I would like to express my gratitude to the many mentors, advisers, and friends near and far who have taught me some of the toughest lessens, and learned alongside me. Finally, thank you to every child, parent, and teacher I have worked with. Thank you for being my greatest teachers and for showing me the power of love, ac-ceptance, and growth. My experiences have taught me that “people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel” (Maya Angelou). Gracias por todo!
For all of these blessings, first and foremost, I would like to thank my Lord, Jesus Christ through whom all things are possible. This journey was not traveled alone and I know that my persistence to finish the Ph.D. has been because of a path guided by the support of my mentors and advisers, Dr. C, Dr. Lara, Dr. Gómez, Dr. Rowley, Dr. Hurtado, Dr. Carter, Dr. Spencer and Dr. Abrego. I want to dedicate my degree to my boys, Marco, Michio, Ale and Michel, every-thing I do is to make a better future for each of you with open possibilities beyond our imagination. To my strength, soulmate, and inspiration, mi reina, Aurora. My Ohana, my foundation, my best friend, my papa and my sister, Kerry who has shown me the meaning of persistence and suc-cess. Mi Familia, mi Corazon, que me enseño los posibili-dades de la vida, Apá, Amá, mi hermanos Chata y Carl. To SCORonia, my retention program. My OAMI (Office of Aca-demic Multicultural Initiatives) family, my Michigan Mom Gloria Taylor, Dr. Matlock and the King/Chavez/Parks program, thank you for giving me a safe place on campus and an opportunity to give back to our community. Most importantly, those that didn’t see the end of this journey, my angels, my mom, my grandma and mi abuelita.
Mark Kamimura
CollegeSchool of Education
DoctorofPhilosophyEducation
Five years ago I only dreamed of the day that I’d be stand-ing here in my cap and gown! At times it seemed like I would never get there, but I made it!
Thank you to my loving parents for always pushing me to strive for higher education and supporting me in all my en-deavors! Special shout outs…To my bffs (Sharon, Caroline, and Andie) we are getting old haha! Can’t wait to see what more memories we have in store! To my roomie Chelsea: thanks for putting up with me for 5 years! I’d never have imagined that the stranger I met in our “closet–sized” room would become one of my greatest friends!
To Apt 308: Loved our movie watching, dinners (YUM!), South Park nites (JV: theyyy took errrr jobbbbs!), and all around fun times! To TManking: things get ridiculous yet in the end you always make me laugh! Thanks for being there to put that smile on my face! To the Bros of Lambda Theta Phi: ya’ll are awesome! To my dearest, most wonder-ful LSs anyone could ask for: Thank you for always believ-ing in me. Thank you for being my foundation and telling me to never quit! Last but not least to all the LOVELY Ladies of BO chapter: I love you guys sooo much! Thank you for showing me what REAL sisterhood is all about! Ya’ll are so genuine, amazing, y siempre LOCAS! ...Thanks again! God bless! “For today, goodbye...for tomorrow, good luck, and FOREVER...GO BLUE!!!!!!!!!!!!”
Tamara Montiel
CollegeEngineering
BachelorofScienceCivil Engineering
Isabel Manrique
CollegeLiterature, Science and the Arts
BachelorofArtsEconomics
Graduation, at last. It’s been four amazing years filled with memories that will last forever. I am definitely fortunate to have a wonderful mother. Had it not been for my mother’s persistence, I would not be here today. She has inspired me to push the limits further than I ever thought possible.I am also grateful for my brother and loving family. They stood beside me during the good and the bad, showing noth-ing but support. Last but not least, I am extremely happy I found a home in Ann Arbor, with wonderful friends and sisters. They will always have a piece of my heart.
Lorraine Negron
CollegeLiterature, Science and the Arts
BachelorofScienceEarth Science
Gracias a mami y papi por siempre siendo los mejores ejem-plos como padres. Gracias papi, por siempre poder quitarme todo lo emocional y la negatividad de mi vida para poder superarme y seguir adelante. Gracias mami, por siempre dandome una patada cuando lo necesitaba, y por el amor que necesitaba para poder ser mas fuerte. Con la fuerza y el amor de ustedes dos, ustedes han ayudado en el proceso de transformar este diamante crudo en un diamante.
Gracias Maria Alejandra, por ser el mejor ejemplo de hermana. Cada puente de imposibilidad que enfrentaste ha hecho que Ricardo y yo podamos seguir tu camino. Estoy muy orgullosa por aver podido ser una Wolverine junto a ti.Gracias Ricardo, por demostrarme que la distancia no es lo que separa si no es el olvido. Siempre se que donde quiera que estes siempre me mandaras toda la energia positiva para que salga adelante.
Gracias a mis Padrinos, por siempre aceptarme tal y como soy, hasta con todas mis locuras. Los quiero y aprecio tanto. Gracias a mi gatito JDicio, siempre esperando casi toda la noche para comer por que su mama estaba trabajando tarde, y siempre tener una sonrisa cuando llegaba para darme fuerzas. A todos les dedico todos mis logros.
I would like to take this time to thank my parents Jill and Edi for their emotional and financial support. Without them, I would not be at the University of Michigan nor have the opportunity to pursue the degree of my choice. I would also like to thank my younger sister Alaina for being at Michigan with myself and mutually understanding the rig-ors of being a Michigan student. Furthermore, I would like to thank my fraternity brothers for all the support and the opportunity to become an honorable gentleman ready for the challenges I will face in the future. Moreover, I would like to thank University Housing for providing me with the opportunity to mentor incoming first–year students as a resident adviser and as the first–year experience advisor. Finally I would like to thank all my friends I have made over my four years here at Michigan. Not only have they been study/homework partners but have allowed me to experience the benefits of being a social and outgoing indi-vidual has on a person’s identity and career path.
Alejandro Moreno-Koehler
CollegeLiterature, Science and the Arts
BachelorofScienceMathematics
Andrea Ortega
CollegeLiterature, Science and the Arts
BachelorofArtsSpanish and Communication Studies
I would like to thank my friends and family for supporting me through my undergraduate journey. Without you guys, graduation might not have been possible. Thank you for everything! Vini, vidi, vici.
Me siento inexplicablemente bendecida y agradecida de haber tenido una educación en una universidad tan presti-giosa, se que muchos no tienen esta oportunidad.
Primeramente, le quiero dar las gracias a Dios y a mi famil-ia, especialmente a mis papas, Fernando y Carmen Padron sin quienes no estuviera aquí. Gracias por todo lo que han hecho para hacer este día una posibilidad para mi.
En los días que sentía que ya no podía con las responsabili-dades y mis estudios, ustedes me dieron el ánimo y la fuerza para seguir. Cuando no sentía ganas de hacer nada, me dieron palabras de sabiduría, motivación e inspiración.
Me urgieron a encontrar algo que me interese y esto me permitió encontrar una carera por cual estoy apasionada. Se que siempre podré seguir contando en su apoyo y ayuda en todo lo que decida.
Por su amor y cariño incondicional, estoy eternamente agradecida.
Gracias también a todos mis amigos y compañeros quienes ayudaron a hacer mi tiempo aquí una época tan bella de mi vida. Les agradezco a todos quienes me ayudaron a ter-minar mi carera y hacer mi experiencia aquí tan especial. Nunca los olvidaré.
Con todo mi corazón,Fatima
Fatima Padron
CollegeLiterature, Science and the Arts
BachelorofArtsSociology
I would like to thank my parents and my brothers and sisters, Michael, Alex, Brigid and Grace for all of their love and support throughout the years. I could not have done it without them. Muchas gracias!
Olivia Rojas
CollegeLiterature, Science and the Arts
BachelorofArtsSpanish
Amy Ramirez–Gay
CollegeSchool of Information
MastersInformation Science
Many thanks to my dear family and friends who have sup-ported my educational journey.
Jessica Rafaela Pérez
CollegeLiterature, Science and the Arts
BachelorofArtsAnthropology
Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He shall direct your paths (Proverbs 3:5, 6). I have learned in these past five years that God has an amazing path set for all of us. My heart is filled with gratitude to those who have guided me to and on that path. To my family, Muma, Daddy, and Joey…how can I convey in words what you have done for me? Dad, you have been my rock, teaching me to perse-vere and remain steady through those unexpected twists in life, while still maintaining a tender heart. I am no doubt my father’s daughter! Mom…you already know! All those texts, emails, phone–calls, tears, laughs, ADVENTURES! You are my wings. BROTHER! You have been in my spirit and my laugh through these years. I am constantly amazed by your own path…you are my inspiration to push forward with that warrior spirit. You carry home in your heart and wherever and whenever we are together!
CRASH AND PASSIONS (evoking all meanings of those words)! Grandma…thank you for the Sundays of sausage pancakes and counsel, the pick–me–up cards that always came at the right time, and your countless prayers. As all of you have been there for me, so I shall always be here for you. I love you all!
The future lies before me and I am so very ready for it…” give me time and you’ll see amazing things!”
Francesca Salazar
CollegeLiterature, Science and the Arts
BachelorofArtsBrain Behavior and Cognitive Science
First and foremost I would like to thank God for the endless strength and guidance He has given me throughout college. Without Him, this opportunity would not have been pos-sible. I also want to say thank you to my mother and father for being the most beautiful and selfless parents a child could ask for. When times were rough you stood by my side, always providing encouragement and love, and without that, I never would have arrived at this point. I love you both very much and I anticipate using this degree to take care of you both for a very long time. Thank you to my sib-lings, Audrey, David, Mark, and Francisco for your words of wisdom and your blessings, I love you all. Thank you to the U of M O.W.L.S for being the best friends a woman could ever ask for, never judging but always loving, a group of truly wise and compassionate women. Thank you to the brothers of Lambda Theta Phi for being such amazing men and friends, as well as introducing me to one of the most important people I now have in my life. Thank you Jeff for always loving, protecting, understanding, and being patient with me. You opened my eyes to new things and you truly made my life and experiences on this campus as beautiful and memorable as I ever could have hoped for, I love you.
Gracias mami y papi por todo su apoyo, no solamente estos cuatro años, pero en todo. No lo habría podido hacer sin ustedes, los quiero mucho. Gracias Vani y Shai, no pudría haber escogido unas hermanas mejores que ustedes, always making me laugh, locas. Thanks “Tuna” through good and bad, for being the best friend I always need. Finally, Thank you to all my friends, phenomenal sorors, professors, fac-ulty, staff, advisers, and the Latino community for always offering advice and support along the way. “Shine on you crazy diamond, Go Blue!”
Kenia Ruiz
CollegeStephen M. Ross School of Business
BachelorofBusinessAdministrationMarketing and Strategy
One of the most amazing experiences that I have had at the University is my introduction to the Latino commu-nity through Assisting Latinos to Maximize Achievement (ALMA). Over the course of four days, I became aware of the welcoming and encouraging Latino community and de-veloped some of my most memorable friendships. Not only did I use the lessons that were taught in the program to endure my first year, I also used the experience as motiva-tion to return to ALMA as a volunteer and core member in the following years. Since then, I have learned that the em-powerment of friendships and the unconditional love and support of family are vital tools for success and happiness.
Alejandro Valtierra
CollegeLiterature, Science and the Arts
BachelorofArtsEnglish Language and Literature
I thank primarily my parents and my sister Michelle for being my constant supporters in life. My inspiration comes from my family, whether it they be in Ohio, or in Colombia. Mostly, I strive to be half the woman my abuela Clarita is, a caring nurturer and a hard worker. Siempre sigue adelante.
Alexandra Tracy
CollegeLiterature, Science and the Arts
BachelorofArtsPolitical Science and French and Francaphone Studies
Extracto de Proverbios y cantares (XXIX)
Caminante, son tus huellasel camino y nada más;Caminante, no hay camino,se hace camino al andar.Al andar se hace el camino,y al volver la vista atrásse ve la senda que nuncase ha de volver a pisar.Caminante no hay caminosino estelas en la mar.
-Alberto Machado
Thank you for helping me make my path: Mama, Papa, Reyn, Isabella, Eric, Susan, Amitai, Jamie, my friends, professors and mentors.
Valentina Stackl
CollegePublic Health
BachelorofArtsPolitical Science
All throughout my childhood, education and learning have been a significant value in my life and in the life of my fam-ily. As early as I can remember, my parents have always supported me in every aspect of school. Mom and Dad, the two of you have shaped me into the person I am today and have made it possible for me to graduate from the University of Michigan! You listened to me for hours on the phone, and loved me unconditionally, even through my million changes in studies. I can’t say I love you enough. Oma and Opa, I love you both so much and you have also provided much needed support and love throughout my life and college career. Eric and all my sisters of Sigma Lambda Gamma, I love you and will miss you. Thank you for making college an amazing and unforgettable experience!
Kimberly Weidl Valdes
CollegeLiterature, Science and the Arts
BachelorofArtsEnglish
Thankful does not begin to describe how I feel about achieving this moment of my life. There are so many people that without whom this moment would not have been pos-sible, nor would it be as rich. I thank God for all that I am and all that I am to become. I am thankful to my family for the most pure and encouraging support one could ever ask for. Thank you to my friends and sisters for being the true loves of my life. Finally, thank you to all the people along the way who were discouraging or said I couldn’t make this possible. You all were my motivation and helped create my strength. I will continue to shoot for the moon in all that I do, if I do not make it I shall land in the stars. God bless and Go Blue!
Shanitra WaymireCollegeStephen M. Ross School of Business
BachelorofBusinessAdministrationBusiness Administration
Julia Donovan Darlow, Ann Arbor
Laurence B. Deitch, Bingham Farms
Denise Ilitch, Bingham Farms
Olivia P.Maynard, Goodrich
Andrea Fischer Newman, Ann Arbor
Andrew C. Richner, Grosse Pointe Park
S. Martin Taylor, Grosse Pointe Farms
Katherine E. White, Ann Arbor
Mary Sue Coleman (ex officio)
On Friday, April 28, 2000, over 300 graduates, their families and friends, Uni-versity faculty, staff and administrators joined together in celebration for the inaugural year of La Celebración Latina.
The event was a culmination of efforts led by students and other University of Michigan units. The goal was to coordinate a festivity that acknowledged the achievements of Latino graduates.
Now, we find ourselves celebrating the Eleventh Annual La Celebración Latina
Jaden Osuna Felix, Office of Student Activities and Leadership
Kenia Ruiz, the Ross School of Business
Valetina Stackl, the School of Public Health
Christian Jimenez, the College of Literature, Science, and the Arts
Andrea Ortega, the College of Literature, Science, and the Arts
Odilia Garcia, the College of Literature, Science, and the Arts
Ximena Daniela Flores, the College of Literature, Science, and the Arts
*Aztec Serpent Design
The Office of Academic Multicultural Initiatives at the University of Michigan
3009 Student Activities Building515 East JeffersonAnn Arbor, Michigan 48109—1316 Phone: (734) 936 —1055
Lester P. Monts, Ph.D.Senior Vice Provost for Academic Affairs, Senior Counselor to the President for the Arts, Diversity and Undergraduate Affairs Arthur F. Thurnau Professor of Music
John Matlock, Ph.D.Associate Vice Provost for Academic Affairs and Executive Director, the Office of Academic Multicultural Initiatives
Joel Felix Graphic Designer | www.joelfelix.com
Gloria TaylorAssistant Director, Office of Academic and Multicultural Initiatives, Office of the Provost and Executive Vice Presidentfor Academic AfΩairs
Margarita Garcia–RobertsResearch Associate, The office of Academic Multicultural Intiatives
Theda GibbsProgram Associate, GEAR–UP Programs and Black Celebratory
Carol WilliamsSenior Secretary, The Office of Academic Multicultural Initiatives
Susan Wilson Director of the Office of Student Activities and Leadership
Jimmy BrownLeadership Programs Manager, Office of Student Activities and Leadership
Mark HindelangSpecial Programs Coordinator, Office of Student Activities and Leadership
Nancy HarperEvent Services Coordinator, University Unions-Scheduling
Belinda Pinto Frye Printing
Patricia Pardon Northway Marketing
The Office of Academic Multicultural Initiatives
Office of the Registrar
Hispanic Alumni Council
Alumni Association of the University of Michigan
Latino Faculty and Staff Association
The University of Michigan, as an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer, complies
with all applicable federal and state laws regarding nondiscrimination and affirmative action.
The University of Michigan is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all persons and
does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, marital status, sex, sexual
orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability, religion, height, weight, or veteran
status in employment, educational programs and activities, and admissions. Inquiries or comp-
laints may be addressed to the Senior Director for Institutional Equity, and Title IX/Section
504/ADA Coordinator, Office of Institutional Equity, 2072 Administrative Services Building,
Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109-1432, 734-763-0235, TTY 734-647-1388. For other University of
Michigan information call 734-764-1817.
Thank you for attending this program. The University of Michigan strives to create a truly
open forum, one in which diverse opinions can be expressed and heard.
It is the right of members of the University community, speakers, artists, and other invited
guests to express their views and opinions at the University. We will protect the right of indi-
viduals to speak or perform, and the rights of those members of the University community
who wish to hear and communicate with an invited speaker or artist.
Protesters also have a right to express their opposition to a speaker in appropriate ways, both
within the confines of this building and outside the facility. However, protesters must not
interfere unduly with communication between a speaker or artist and members of the audience.
If the hosts of this event or University representatives believe that protesters are interfering
unduly with a speaker or performer’s freedom of expression, those protesters will be warned.
If the warnings are not heeded and the interference continues, then the individuals responsible
may be removed from the building.
We reaffirm these policies in order to most fully protect the rights of free expression for
speakers, performers, and protesters alike, as set forth by our Civil Liberties Board in our
Student Handbook, and in accordance with the U-M Standard Practice Guide; Regents’ Ordi-
nance Article XII, Section 1; and state statutes.
