L a t i n a / o G r a d u a t i o n

Transcription

1 L a t i n a / o G r a d u a t i o n Celebration University of Maryland, College Park Memorial Chapel May 19, 2010

2 2010 Latina/o Graduation Celebration Welcome/Bienvenida Dr. Robert E. Waters, Jr. Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost and Assistant to the President for Equity and Diversity Keynote Address/Ponente Principal Dr. Mark A. Lòpez Director of Student Success Initiatives California State University, Dominguez Hills Carolina Rojas-Bahr Award/Entrega del premio Carolina Rojas Bahr Dr. Christopher Lester Director, Office of Multi-ethnic Student Education Outstanding Graduate Student Award/ Entrega del premio al mejor Estudiante de Maestría Rebecca Villarreal 2009 Recipient and Graduate Administrative Coordinator, Department of Resident Life Recognition of Graduating Students/ Reconocimiento a los Estudiantes que se Gradúan Jacob Crider & Cristina Risco Appreciation of Family/Apreciando Nuestras Familias Graduating Students Closing Remarks/Palabras de Despedida Dr. Cordell Black Associate Provost for Equity and Diversity

3 Dr. Nariman Farvardin Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost On behalf of the University of Maryland, it is my privilege to congratulate the 2010 University of Maryland Latina/o graduates. The Office of the Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost is pleased to acknowledge and recognize your diligence, accomplishments, and academic achievements. This celebration is a significant event for the entire University community, because it recognizes your impact, both as a University of Maryland student and as a member of the Latina/o campus community. As you prepare for your future endeavors, whether in continued studies or a professional career, we hope you will appreciate the investment you and the University of Maryland community have made towards your future. Your future participation in alumni activities and service will create a legacy that will guide many other students towards a day like today. As you celebrate with family, friends, and loved ones, I hope you will take this opportunity to reflect on the challenges and successes you have encountered, relish the triumphs you have achieved, and enjoy the successes you have earned as a University of Maryland graduate. Please accept my best wishes for all of your future endeavors. Sincerely, Nariman Farvardin, Ph.D. Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost

4 Dr. Cordell W. Black Associate Provost for Equity and Diversity On behalf of the University of Maryland, it is my distinct pleasure to help sponsor the 2010 Latina/o Graduation Celebration. The Office of the Associate Provost for Equity and Diversity is dedicated to the excellence of all Maryland students. I am delighted to help commemorate the culmination of this educational experience and the beginning of many new experiences for members of the Latina/o community. The University of Maryland is proud to provide a time for family and friends to acknowledge these dedicated, hard-working students. It is a time for members of the campus community to support and encourage future generations of Latina/o students to achieve their highest potential. Thank you for joining us at this momentous occasion. Sincerely, Cordell W. Black, Ph.D. Associate Provost for Equity and Diversity

5 Dear Class of 2010, Congratulations on reaching this pivotal point in your academic career. We are please that you are able to celebrate this significant celebration with family and friends during the University of Maryland s (UMD) sixth annual Latina/o Graduation Celebration. It is with pride that we welcome you as Latino Terp alum and look forward to your future accomplishments. We are very please to share with you that the Latino Alumni Network (LAN), was recently officially recognized by the UMD Alumni Association system. We understand the creating a community can be an essential factor during your academic experience. Similarly, LAN strives to foster a community that will provide support, mentoring, and development as our alumni pursue their personal and professional endeavors. In the near future, LAN will be hosting a networking get together and will continue to strategically plan how to best impact the alumni and broader Latino community. Members of LAN will be in attendance during the Latino Graduation Celebration and will be collecting names of individuals that are interested in receiving more information about our group. We hope that you will join us and make LAN a part of this next phase in your career. Good luck with your final examinations and with your other graduation celebrations this month. Congratulations on the next chapter of your life! Sincerely, UMD Latino Alumni Network

6 Keynote Speaker Dr. Mark A. Lòpez 07 Director of Student Success Initiatives California State University, Dominguez Hills Dr. Mark A. Lòpez is a practitioner-scholar who continues to publish and present widely on topics of underserved college students, student access, persistence, and success, and equity issues in higher education. He joined CSU Dominguez Hills in the summer of 2008 where he served as the Executive Assistant to President Mildred García. In his current role, Dr. López recently took the helm of the newly created Student Success Unit within the division of Enrollment Management and Student Affairs at CSU Dominguez Hills. In this role, he will provide direction for the Center for Learning and Academic Support Services (CLASS) and TRIO Programs (Student Support Services and Upward Bound), co-direct the African-American and Latino Male Success Initiative, work directly with the newly awarded Title V initiative and serve as the lead for Supplemental Instruction. He comes to California State University, Dominguez Hills most recently from the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board where he had oversight of the Uniform Recruitment and Retention Strategy Policy, and coordinated the statewide task force for Closing the Gaps by 2015 for Underrepresented Students. Prior to Texas, Dr. López served as the Special Assistant to the Associate Vice President and Provost for Academic Affairs, and Assistant to the President for Equity and Diversity at the University of Maryland. Dr. López was responsible for assisting members of the Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost s senior staff on projects ranging from faculty and staff training to research on promising practices related to retention and success of students and faculty. In addition, he served on various Presidential commissions and Provost Committees as well as formed alliances with a number of undergraduate and graduate student organizations. Dr. López has a Doctorate of Philosophy in Education Policy with a concentration in Higher Education Administration from the University of Maryland, and a Masters of Education in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies, a Baccalaureate degree, and proud alum of the Upward Bound College Preparatory Program from Arizona State University.

7 Participating Faculty & Staff Maria V. Dixon Lecturer, Hearing & Speech Sciences Annie Foster Ahmed Associate Director, Pre-College-Program in Undergraduate Studies Judith Noemi Freidenberg Associate Profressor, Anthropology Manel Lacorte Associate Professor, Department of Spanish and Portuguese School of Languages, Literatures and Cultures Victoria Maria MacDonald Assistant Professor, Department of Curriculum & Instruction Marcy Marinelli Director of Undergraduate Office, Psychology Randy Ontiveros Assistant Professor, Department of English Justicia Opoku-Edusei Instructor, Biology Tracy Riggins Assistant Professor, Psychology Christine Roberts White Lecturer, Criminology & Criminal Justice Ana Patricia Rodríguez Associate Professor, Department of Spanish and Portuguese School of Languages, Literatures, and Cultures Sabina Trejo Program Management Specialist for Pharmacy, University Health Center

8 2010 Graduates Jennie Alfaro BA, Psychology I owe my graduation today to my family, and especially to my Mom and Dad. Thank you for being such great role models for me. Mom, I ll try to always be as strong and determined as you ve always been for my sisters and me. Dad, I ll never forget how hard you work every day for us. I love you both so much and am so grateful to have parents like you. To my Upsilon sisters of Lambda Theta Alpha Latin Sorority, Inc., love you all and I can t thank you all enough for everything you ve done for me. Andrea Alvarez BA, Criminology and Criminal Justice College has been a journey in my life that will remain forever as a great experience of knowledge and gratitude for those special people who have help me achieve my success. Special thanks to my mother Vilma Turcios, for believing in me from the beginning to the end. Thank you mom, I DID IT!! Hector Alvarez BS, Accounting There are many people that I would like to thank for the support they have given me during my time at the and throughout my college career at the University of Maryland, College Park. From my professors, classmates, friends, faculty and family members. I especially would like to thank my parents and sisters whom have supported me and encouraged me through all these years of college. This accomplishment in my life is an attribute to them for their support. Judith Andino BS, General Business/Entrepreneurship I appreciate and thank all of my friends, great professors at the R. H. Smith Business School, and especially my loving family for instilling in me the determination to try my best and achieving such an important accomplishment. Gracias! Johana Arendell-Jones BS, Community Health School of Public Health Gracias a Dios por todos las bendiciones que me ha dado. A mis padres, mi familia, Jorge, y amigos porque sin ellos no estuviera aquí. En especial a mi mama adorada por siempre apoyarme, aconsejarme, y regañarme cuando fue necesario para poder llegar aquí. A mis 3 mejores amigas queridas Casey, Emeidys, y Silayi Gracias por siempre escucharme y aconsejarme de la manera apropiada. Las adoro! Me viera encantado que las 3 estuvieran aquí celebrando conmigo pero si Dios quiere esta no será la ultima Rene Argueta Jr. BS, Public and Community Health School of Public Health I would like to thank my parents and my little brother for all the love and support they have given me. I love you Mom, Dad, and Omar! To the DyNaMiC Dance Troupe, thank you for introducing me to the world of dance and growing to be my second family. My passion for dance became an encouraged expression thanks to these incredible people. Thank you to all of my closest of friends (you know who you are) that have been there for me through the best and worst of times over the past four years.

9 Manuel Armijos M.Eng., Fire Protection A. James Clark School of Engineering I would like to thank to my parents and sisters for all their support and the help during all my life and especially with this new accomplishment in my life. Queridos padres gracias por todo el sacrificio que han hecho y por el buen ejemplo que me han dado en la vida. Julian Artunduaga BS, Physiology and Neurobiology College of Chemical and Life Sciences I would like to thank my parents for their support and advice. Especialmente a mi Mami, porque siempre has estado luchando por mi bienestar y felicidad. Aunque no se que me espera, se que siempre tendre tu apoyo incondicional. Brenda Barrera BA, Spanish Language, Literatures and Cultures College of Arts and Humanities I would like to thank my entire family and professors for their support during my college years at UMD. También, quiero dedicar este triunfo académico a mi hijo Steven, la personita más importante de mi vida. Mami, quiero decirle que usted es mi ejemplo a seguir, sus ganas por salir adelante siempre han sido una de mis más grandes motivaciones; el saber que nunca se ha rendido por lo que quiere, ha sido mí mayor inspiración académica. Bladimir, te agradezco por apoyarme en mis sueños y siempre motivarme a conseguir lo que quiero, gracias por compartir mis triunfos y alegrías. Jessica Bermudez BS, Bioengineering A. James Clark School of Engineering I d like to thank my mom, Dora, and my dad, Denny, for every sacrifice and every hug they gave to get me here today. My diploma and my successes in life are just as much theirs as they are mine. I leave now knowing my time here has shaped me into the person I came here wanting to be: prepared, confident, knowledgeable. Class of 2010: We did it!! Susana Blanco M.Ed., School Counseling College of Education I would like to extend a huge thank you to my husband for being my support system these past two years and for continually believing in me and pushing me to do better. I also want to thank my family and my closest friends for their continued support throughout my academic career. Without all the encouragement, I could not have made it this far...i love you all so much! Katherine Bonilla BA, Criminology and Criminal Justice College of Arts and Humanities First of all I would like to thank God for letting me achieve everything I have up to this day. Second I d love to thank my parents and sister for always being there for me and for being one of the main reasons why I am what I am. Last but not least I want to thank my friends for also being there for me and for showing me the real meaning of friendship. Overall I thank everyone for being part of my life and for making this possible.

10 Beatriz Cabieses BS, Biology Science College of Chemical and Life Sciences It is very satisfying to have reached one of my goals in life which is to have a major in Biology Science. This could not have been possible without the support of my parents, of course, and the knowledge of the Biology science faculty. I thank to Dr. Noben-Trauth, Dr. Stanton, Dr. Watkins and Dr. Rollins, for their enthusiasm to impart knowledge and for being an example of the difference one person with deep convictions can make. Jeimy Cabrejo M.A., English Language and Literature College of Arts and Humanities I would not have been able to be here today without the constant support from my parents, Arturo & Clara. Los quiero mucho mami y papi. Also my siblings who gave me the best example a little sister could have. I love you Damaris, Yesica & Isai. To Peter, for giving me endless encouragement, I Love you! Lastly, to all the inspiring teachers & friends I have made here at UMD, I will never forget the wonderful time I had here. And to all the other graduates: WE MADE IT!! Congrats, guys! :) Karen Castillo BA, Psychology I DID IT!!! First and foremost, I would like to thank my mom for everything she has done for me and my sisters. I would not have gotten this far without her love and support. GRACIAS MAMI! I LOVE YOU! I would also like to thank the rest of my family for being so incredibly helpful and caring. And to my friends, THANK YOU for making these four years so memorable. You are all ridiculously amazing and I will love you always. Oh and thank you for keeping me sane. :) Pamela Cervera BA, American Studies College of Arts and Humanities A good teacher is like a candle, it consumes itself to light the way for others. Thank you, Robb Hernandez and Dr. Ivette Rodriguez for lighting the way. I want to thank my mentor, Mark Story for always teaching from the heart, not from the book and for having so much faith in me. I will be eternally grateful to my parents who have sacrificed so much to give me the opportunity to receive a higher education. All that I am or ever hope to be, I owe to my parents. Arquimen Chicas-Navarro BA, Spanish Language, Literatures and Cultures College of Arts and Humanities I want to start by thanking all of my professors; I want to thank them for their support. I want to specially thank my mother Marisol and my professor Dr. Rodriguez. They both have played a crucial role in my academic achievement. I want to acknowledge all of the great advices and mentoring that Dr.Rodriguez gave me. I also, want to express my gratitude to mother for all of her encouragement thought out my college career. Madre, muchísimas gracias por todos tus concejos y apoyo! Karmin Cortes M.A., Education Leadership and Policy College of Education I would like to thank my family, especially my mom and dad, for always encouraging me to do my best and letting me know they had high expectations of me. I am grateful to my advisor, Dr. Betty Malen, for her honest feedback and for always demanding quality work.

11 Maria Cosio BA, Secondary Education, English College of Education I want to thank my family for supporting me while I pursued my education at UMCP.I personally want to thank my mother for everything she had to put up in order for me to finally graduate! It s been tough! Gracias Mama! Te quiero mucho! Aprecio todo lo que has hecho para que yo sigue adelante tanto en mis estudios y precursorado!! I also want to thank my friends from my congregation that were always there for me too! I love you all! :) Stella Da Costa BS, Business Entrepreneurship I have been grateful to receive a high quality education and be surrounded by other classmates and professors who share the same passion and enthusiasm for the field of entrepreneurship as I do. I recently received the Outstanding Entrepreneurship Student Award for the RHS Class of 2010 at USG. Future plans include enrolling in a graduate program and eventually pursuing my dream to start my own business. I would like to specially thank my husband for his love and support. Adriana de la Torre BA, Psychology Always a driven individual I have strived to live up to the upmost expectations. Not settling for less I have completed my studies at the University of Maryland but will continue on learning and growing in my graduate studies. None of this would have been possible without my loving family and their faith in me. Lizaeileen Del Valle-Flores BA, Spanish Language, Literature and Cultures College of Arts and Humanities Mami, Papi y Taya, gracias por todo lo que han hecho por mí. Los quiero mucho y les agradezco por todo su apoyo y amor. Javier, thank you for being my best friend, your unconditional love and support. I would also like to thank my family and friends who have helped me reach this milestone, including the Montenegro Family, Mr. Vollmer, my little man, Logan and the Guys. Special thanks to Dr. Ivette Rodriguez and Dr. Ana-Patricia Rodriguez for your guidance and encouragement. Go Terps! Angel Diaz BS, Electrical Engineering A. James Clark School of Engineering Let this be a reminder of all the obstacles you had to overcome to get to where you are and the hard work needed to achieve success Jessica Diaz BA, Criminology and Criminal Justice This moment is not just for me, it is for my family. My accomplishments are backed by the support and encouragement of my parents, siblings, and close friends. Without them, I would not have made it to this point. I d like to thank my peers as well, for challenging me to always aim for the best. Gracias Papi y Mami, lo hicimos! This is just the beginning...

12 Karen Diaz BS, Neurophysiology College of Chemical and Life Sciences I want to thank my parents for their constant love and support throughout the years that have lead up to this moment. I know that Im the person I am today because of the lessons they taught me. I want to thank the professors that have taught and counseled me throughout the years. It has meant a great deal. Lastly, I want to thank my friends for their love and support especially during the times when the work load seemed like too much. Im truly feel blessed. I look forward to the future. Evin Diaz-Hennessey BS, Marketing I would like to thank my family for all of their love and support during my four years here at college. I wouldn t have been here without them. Love you guys! Rolando Espinoza BA, Spanish Language, Literatures and Cultures College of Arts and Humanities I want to thank my family and close friends who have been with me during this chapter of my life. If it wasn t for them I wouldn t be the person that I am today. For that reason, I would like to share this accomplishment with them. Y siempre tener en mente que puedes lograr cualquier cosa con dedicación y nunca dejarse vencer. Xiomara Esteban M.A., Speech-Language Pathology Quisiera dar gracias a Dios por las bendiciones que me ha concedido y la oportunidad de haber realizado esta etapa en mi vida. Mil gracias a mis padres por sus oraciones, el apoyo constante durante estos 2 años, y por los desayunos, almuerzos y cenas día tras día! Gracias a mi hermano y demás familia y amigos-por sus palabras de ánimo y fortaleza. A mi novio, por no solo apoyar pero soportarme en todo momento, te amo! Sin ustedes, estoy segura que no hubiera logrado esta gran meta, LOS QUIERO! Krizia Fernandez BS, Family Science School of Public Health Thank you to my parents who always believe in me. Thank you to my sister, Tatyana, who has always put up with me, and my brother, Aaron, who always keeps me grounded. I never would have made it without all of your support. I love you all so much! Also, a very special thank you to Colleen: my role model, mentor, but most importantly, friend. You ve changed my life in ways that you cannot even imagine--thank you. Go Family Science! Maria Ferra BA, Criminology and Criminal Justice When taking note of all of my accomplishments & struggles I have had throughout my 21 years, I can find one thing in common, my family. I am the person I am today solely because of my family. They have shaped me into believing that I can be anything my heart aspires. The day has come for my life to not start, but to continue alone without the much needed help from my family. Thank you for everything you have done to help me get here today. I love you.

13 Diana Flor BS, International Business It has been a memorable and true experience for me to get here to this special moment; the beginning of so much I desire to do and accomplish in life. There are so many people involved in helping me obtain my degree that I cannot single just one out. To a true friend, who has been there to encourage me through tears and happy moments. To my family, thank you for supporting me even when at times we dont agree. And, to those of you that love and support me any way you can. I love you all, and would be nowhere without you. Ligia Flores BS, Biological Sciences College of Chemical and Life Sciences It has been a long and hard road for me to obtain this degree but I would like to thank all my professors especially my advisor at Shady Grove, Dr. Tom Stanton. Thank you for all your help and patience. To all my classmates at Shady Grove, it s been hard but fun I will miss everyone! Lastly, I would like to thank God for giving me the most wonderful parents in the world! Los quiero mucho! Emmy Frenz BS, International Business First and foremost I would like to thank my family and especially my parents who have provided me with the support and encouragement necessary to get me to where I am. Thank you for believing in me and making me the young women that stands before you today. To my sorority sisters, thank you for helping get through these last few years and making my college experience an unforgettable one. And finally to my fellow seniors at the Smith School, after all those restless nights, we finally did it! Grace Frias BA, Sociology My time at Maryland has been great. I have been taught by wonderful graduate students and had many wonderful mentors. The memories I have made at Maryland are everlasting and I am thankful that I can celebrate them in this graduation ceremony. Flor Garay BA, Sociology/Government and Politics - Minor in US Latina/o Studies First I want to thank God for giving me the strength and wisdom to complete my college career. My parents and sisters for their understanding and unconditional support Los Quiero Muchisimo!! My dale crew and friends for making my college years memorable! Also, to my two dear friends Gladys and Natalie! I love you girls and not matter what direction life takes us you girls will always be my sisters and have a special place in my heart! Congratulations Class of 2010! Laura Garcia BS, Civil Engineering A. James Clark School of Engineering At times our own light goes out and is rekindled by a spark from another person. Each of us has cause to think with deep gratitude of those who have lighted the flame within us. -Albert Schweitzer

14 Xavier Gascon BS, Government and Politics Never forget that life is just beginning and a life of unknown wonders and trials await us. Embrace it and live! Gina Gomez BA, Dance College of Arts and Humanities I would like to thank my friends and family for all of their support. They mean the world to me and because they believed in me, I was able to succeed. I hope that someday I can make a difference in the future for Latinos and for the world. Blanca Gomez Castillo BS, Biological Sciences College of Chemical and Life Sciences With perseverance, effort and having faith in yourself and in God, you will reach your goals no matter how difficult to achieve you think they are. Also, I want to thank my wonderful professors Dr. Stanton, Dr. Noben, Dr. Watkins and Dr. Rollins for their valuable lessons, and tutors at the Center for Academic Success who have help me throughout this time at the Biological Sciences Program. Maria Guevara BA, Studio Art College of Arts and Humanities It s been a long journey but the experience was great!\ Sasha Guevara BA, Government and Politics Thank you to my parents and family who have supported me in my education throughout the years. Wendell Hall Ph.D Higher Education Policy College of Education Si Se Puede! Congratulations to all of the graduates, and who better to speak at this year s graduation than Dr. Mark A. Lopez! Although you re on the west coast Lopez, the legacy lives on. Cindy Hernandez BS, Family Science School of Public Health First I want to thank God for giving me the wisdom and the strength to accomplish everything I have during the past four years. I want to thank my mother for encouraging me to work hard and never give up during difficult times. I want to thank all my family members and friends that helped me and supported me through this journey. I want to thank the AAP and McNair Program and all their staff for the academic support. Last but not least, I want thank my mentors Dr. Kevin Roy and Colleen Vesely. Jose Herrera BS, Animal Science College of Agriculture and Natural Resources I would like to thank my mother for believing in me and I wouldn t be here without her. I LOVE YOU MOM!

15 Rossana Hilario BA, Biological Sciences College of Chemical and Life Sciences I would like to thank my mother for all the support she has given me in every single moment of my life. I am here all because of her. Anthony Jones BS, Sociology The journey is just beginning. Thanks Mom and Dad, Family and Friends! Jackelyn Lopez BS, Mechanical Engineering A. James Clark School of Engineering These past five years have seen countless late nights studying, summer internships across the country, and several career path changes, all of which I couldn t have survived without the help of my family and friends. Thank you Mami and Papi for your support and understanding, Giselle and Jeannette for the inspiration to do my best, and my friends for making my college years a blast. Les quiero mucho! Katherine Lopez BS, Psychology I want to extend my warmest thank you to my family for supporting me through these difficult, yet beautiful, years of college. You have been my backbone and taught me the value of education and perseverance. I am so thankful for my advisor Dr Tracy Riggins for extending her knowledge and experience to encourage me to broaden my horizon within behavioral research. Thank you UMD for giving me an insurmountable education and for blessing me with the best years of my life. Ill forever be a proud TERP Hubert Marconi BS, International Business All who have meditated on the art of governing mankind have been convinced that the fate of empires depends on the education of youth. -Aristotle Chanel Marin BA, Psychology Attending the University of Maryland has brought four years of happiness, learning, and personal and academic growth. I am so grateful for my family s support over the past four years. They have been the best years of my life. I have created friendships and memories that I will keep for the rest of my life Mar Massiani BS, Psychology Papi y Mami: GRACIAS por todos los esfuerzos y sacrificios que han echo por mi. Sin ustedes no seria lo que soy hoy. Gracias a ustedes he logrado superar cada meta y realizado cada sueno. Mamama y mi familia, gracias por el apoyo, sin ustedes no lo hubiera logrado. A mi Abu y mis abuelos Massiani, gracias por el ejemplo que dejaron,son mi inspiración de siempre seguir adelante. Russ: you made this ride unforgettable and worth every second of. To my DEMers, love you. THANK YOU

16 Gladys Mendoza BA, Economics and Family Science I would like to thank God above all for always guiding me in every possible way. My parents for motivating me & supporting me in everything always! Dad you are my inspiration & mom, the strongest woman I ve ever known. My brother, Tito, for being my role-model & always being there for me. Flor&Nat my sisters, for ALWAYS being there for me, motivating me throughout this journey, for helping me become a stronger person, it wouldn t have been possible w/o you in my life, CDEE JB R J love you! Dennis Menjivar BA, Economics First of all, I want to thank God for everything He has done for me. Con la ayuda de Dios todo es posible. I want to thank my parents for all the love and support they have given me. Quiero agradecer a mi mama y mi papa por el apoyo que me han dado. También, dedico este día a mi tío Herbert y a mi abuelita Rita, que descansen en paz. Finally, congratulations to all graduates of 2010! Cindy Menjivar BS, Family Science School of Public Health I thank my parents and God for allowing me to continue my education and obtain my degree. My parents have been my rock through everything in life. I thank them for all my success, without their encouragement I would not be the person I am today. I love them so much. Thank you Mommy & Daddy. I thank my brother for being the person I look up to and for setting such a great example for me. Thank you for being my role model. I also want to thank the rest of my family for always believing in me. Nicole Merchan BA, Communication College of Arts and Humanities This is for my biggest fans, my family especially my mommy and sissy who have been three form through thick and thin always believing in me that I could to anything that I set my mind to. Thank you for all of your love and support. Julia Miñano Ruiz BS, Criminology and Criminal Justice I would like to dedicate this achievement to my family and especially my mother whom has supported me through this journey. Te quiero mucho Mamá! Thank you because without you I could not have accomplished all that I have. I d also like to thank my friends whom have been my constant support pushing me to be better and having faith that I could achieve. Gracias a mi familia que esta distante de mí pero conmigo en espíritu. Quiero dar gracias a todos por siempre creer en mí. Los quiero mucho! Henry Molina BS, Accounting I would like to thank all the staff and faculty at the Shady Grove campus and the College Park campus. Secondly I want to thank my parents who have supported and encouraged me during my collegiate career.

17 Juliana Moncada BA, Criminology and Criminal Justice This is the most exciting moment in my life so far. It s been a long ride but very worth it. I d like to thank my parents, they have been cheering me on nonstop and their love for me is great. My siblings, Gerald, Yanina and Gustavo... I love you guys and thanks for the good vibes. Samir, you have been my rock through these crazy years of full work. I love you very much and thanks for wanting the best for me on what I want. UMD has taught me to want the best and be the best. Thanks. Go TERPS! Vanessa Morales BA, Criminology and Criminal Justice First I would like to thank my family, especially my parents for their continued support. They have truly been an inspiration and role model for me. I would like to thank my sisters of Lambda Theta Alpha Latin Sorority, Inc. LTA has become a huge part of my life and has helped me grow in so many ways. Special thanks to Janel, Jessi, Elisha, and Jennie. Molly Morin M.Ed., College Student Personnel College of Education I feel very privileged to have had the opportunity to pursue my masters degree at the University of Maryland. If it were not for the sacrifices that my parents have made I would not be where I am today. I want to thank them for believing in me more than I believe in myself & for my friends here in MD for being my second family and support here in Maryland and for my ARHU family who has given me the opportunity to grow as a professional and for all the laughs. Laura Needelman-Ruiz BA, Psychology At this stepping stone in my life, I would like to reach out and express my gratitude to my parents. Without their encouragement, support and unconditional love I would not be here today. They have given me the strength to work to my potential, and the help to overcome all the obstacles that have been thrown my way. On this exciting day, I would like to dedicate my accomplishments and graduation to them. So much love. Claudia Neira BS, Accounting Después de cuatro años, llenos de retos, estoy muy feliz, pero sobre todo eternamente agradecida a quienes hicieron este triunfo posible. A Dios, quien nunca me abandona, a mi hija, pues su presencia ha sido el motivo más poderoso para seguir adelante, a quien admiro y quiero mucho, mi esposo y amigo, quien me orientó, animó e inspiró, a mis padres por todo el apoyo que me han brindado; mis valores y superacion se las debo a ustedes, a mi hermano, este triunfo es fruto de su invaluable ayuda.

18 Hector Neira-Quintero BS, Bioengineering A. James Clark School of Engineering Jamás habría podido llegar a este punto sin el apoyo de mi familia a quienes adoro sobre todas las cosas y a quienes les debo todo lo que soy. Claudis, quiero que sepas que estoy muy orgulloso de ti porque nunca te haz dejado vencer y hoy estoy muy contento de graduarme contigo. I am particularly grateful to my faculty mentors and my friends for always supporting and advising me. A big Upsi to my Hermanos of La Unidad Latina, Lambda Upsilon Lambda Fraternity Inc., all of whom have touched my life. Andrea Ochoa BA, Government and Politics Hace cuatro años nunca me hubiera imaginado estar hoy esperando mi diploma en la Universidad de Maryland. La vida ha dado tantas vueltas y me ha enseñado tanto durante este tiempo, que hasta ahora entiendo que nada se puede alcanzar sin la ayuda de Dios y de Mi Familia. A mis papás, a Cata y a Beto gracias por darme las alas para volar. Sólo me resta expresar mi más profunda gratitud a mi familia y amigos por todo el apoyo que me han brindado; sencillamente gracias por creer en mí. Lynda Ostermann BS, Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics College of Chemical and Life Sciences I would like to thank my mom for all the love and support that she gave me. I am happy to be a Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics major. I would like to thank two professors that made me love the field. Dr. Ibrahim Ades taught me everything about Cell Biology. He was always there to help me and explain difficult concepts. Dr. Najib El-Sayed taught me everything about Bioinformatics and Computational Biology. He gave me a good foundation of genetics and great advice. Martha Pena BA, Communication College of Arts and Humanities Abriendo caminos: As if leaving our beloved country behind to start a new life in the U.S. was not already a struggle for our family, what was even more difficult was to have to do it all over again four years later when we lost my stepfather to cancer and had to relocate to Maryland. Our struggle as a family has forged a unity and perserverance that has carried me all the way here to my goal and everything I stand on is because of my mom s sacrifice & God s faithful love for our family. Edwin Perez BS, Electrical Engineering A. James Clark School of Engineering I want to thank the Solbergs who have provided me with a scholarship and supported me throughout my college career. Jessica Plazza BS, Mathematics College of Computer, Mathematical and Physical Sciences Mi piedra angular: Dios, Papi, Mami, Michelle. Dios mio, gracias por toditas las bendiciones. Papi, gracias por tus consejos y por la seguridad que siempre me has brindado. Mami, gracias por tu constante apoyo emocional, espiritual, etc. Siempre cuento contigo. Michelle, thank you for always keeping things light and reminding me to just keep swimming! Gracias a mi familia y a mis seres especiales por estar conmigo en este dia. Los amo mucho.

19 Paul Quintanilla BA, Spanish Language, Literatures and Cultures - Minor in US Latina/o Studies College of Arts and Humanities First and foremost, I would like to thank my mother and father who have always been there for me. Without the support of both you, I would not be where I am today. Los quiero mucho! To my friends, thank you for all the great memories we have shared together, they will stay with me forever! To my Hermanos of La Unidad Latina, I am extremely privileged to have joined this brotherhood and have all of you be part of life, LUPS!. Last but not least shout out to my LB Hector for graduating as well! Juan Ramos BS, General Biology College of Chemical and Life Sciences My brother, Daniel Ramos, and sister, Marie Ramos were important to me in obtaining this degree. As of now i m the only who hasn t graduated and their both off already in their careers. Seeing them strive and do well is what motivated me the most to grab this degree. I want to follow in their footsteps and become just as successful as they are going to be. Wendy Recinos BA, Art College of Arts and Humanities I ve been waiting for this moment for years now. And I couldn t have done it without the help and support of my family, especially my mother. Every day I strived to make her proud! The Academic Achievement Program also helped me begin my journey as a college student. They were always there for me as a backbone. In addition, the free spirits of my art professors have taught me a lot about who I am as an artist. Finally, I couldn t have done it without my great friends and chapter sisters. Omar Reyes BS, Psychology I would like to take this opportunity to thank my family and friends for their love and support throughout these years. Thanks to my mother who is watching from heaven. Special thanks to my angel on earth, Paul. You know, my friend, that without your unconditional love and support, I would not have been able to achieve this goal. Special thanks to Catalina Sol for being a mentor, a wonderful supervisor and most of all a great friend. Juan, thank you for reminding me that with simplicity life can be much easier. Gracias a Dios y a la vida!! Geovanito tio Omar te quiere mucho! Ana Reyes Albarracin BA, Anthropology Thanks to the Solbergs who welcomed me into their loving family of scholars. To Dr. A.P.Rodriguez who has opened my eyes to another world of scholarship, one in which diversity has a voice. To Dr. R.Harrison for guiding me through my honors thesis even when she didnt have to. To Pamela Hernandez for believing in me and Dave Jones for his wisdom and friendship. To Zev for changing my life. Finally to my family and especially my mother, who has always worked for everyone but herself.

20 Ingrid Reyes-Arias BS, Family Science School of Public Health First of all, I thank God for giving me the opportunity to succeed and obtain my bachelor s degree. I thank my mother for supporting every decision I have made through my undergraduate career. Without them I would have not been able to succeed. Marcela Rivas BA, Government and Politics Mami y Papi: you taught me to persevere & work hard at everything I do, TQM. Majandra: you taught me to live my life & enjoy it to the fullest! I couldn t ask for a better big sister. Maru: me acompañaste cuando estudiaba en la noche y me enseñaste que siempre tenga fe en Dios. GRACIAS por siempre rezar por mi cuando tenía un examen. Andres: thanks for always making me feel better:) To SEE & for making me the leader I am today. To my closest friends: 4 years is only the beginning...much <3 Daniel Rodrigues BS, International Business First of all, I would like to thank God for being with me through all of the enjoyable and tough times at University of Maryland. Second of all, I would also like to thank My family for all the support. And last but not least, I would like to thank all of my professors for sharing their wisdom and knowledge that has helped me grow in life. One remarkable teacher I will never forget is Mrs. Debra Shapiro, she inspired us, students, to think outside the box and taught us valuable material.congrats2all! Raquel Rodrigues BA, International Business It is in times such as this one that I miss the most those who helped me get here. And, even though they are literally spread across the world, I do not feel alone. I thank my husband, my son, and my parents for given me the structure to achieve such an accomplishment. Cory Rodriguez BS, Public and Community Health School of Public Health Michelle Roman BA, Sociology I would like to thank Dr. Linda Moghadam and Dr. Melissa Milkie of the Department of Sociology, and Dr. Laura Macpherson of the Department of Psychology, for providing outstanding recommendations for my graduate school applications, and for providing me guidance when I was still figuring out my professional goals. Specifically, I thank Dr. Macpherson for sharpening my interest in abnormal psychology and clinical social work.