2024 P2C Booklet by Indiana Latino Institute

PATHWAYS TO CAREERS

Our mission is to advance Latino educational attainment and workforce preparedness statewide through advocacy, leadership development, and culturally responsive programming.

INDIANA LATINO INSTITUTE

The Indiana Latino Institute (ILI) is a 501(c)3 statewide non-profit organization committed to serving Latino communities across Indiana Since 2001, ILI's efforts have focused on education and health programming, and in 2018, launched the Indiana Latino Leadership Circle program to increase the pool of Latino leaders within Indiana represented at the executive level. The Indiana Latino Institute will continue to elevate and empower Latino Hoosiers and work to improve all communities throughout the state.

MARLENE DOTSON

ILI President & CEO

ART VASQUEZ ILI Board Chair

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Art Vasquez, President, West Central Region, Board Chair

Dr. Andrew Adams, Vice President of Neurodegeneration Research, Board Vice Chair

Mike Merkel, LaRosa & Co, Board Treasurer

Dr. Virginia Caine, Marion County Public Health Department, Board Secretary

Carole Casto, Cummins Inc.

Sam Centellas, CDFI Friendly South Bend

Ricardo Garcia De Alba, Corteva Agriscience

Rosemily Geyer, Geyer Fire Protection

Jadira Hoptry, First Merchants Corporation

Danny Lopez, Pacers Sports and Entertainment

James McBryant, Hendricks County

Gina Miller, INHP

Seth Morales, Morales Group Staffing

Mario Rodriguez, Indianapolis Airport Authority

Matzine Sanchez Gutierrez, Corteva Agriscience

Rafael Sanchez, Old National Bank

Greg Stremlaw, IndySports & Entertainment

Alfonso Vidal, Nylene USA

Marlene Dotson, Indiana Latino Institute

MARION COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS ARE COMPRISED OF 22.4% HISPANIC STUDENTS

INDIANA LATINO INSTITUTE

PATHWAYS TO CAREERS

The Indiana Latino Institute has partnered with Ivy Tech Community College Indianapolis, IU Indianapolis, and Marian University on a five-year initiative with the goal of reducing poverty within Latino communities in Marion County by increasing postsecondary education attainment and strengthening career pathways and placement in good jobs for Latino students.

Thanks to the Lilly Endowment grant, the Indiana Latino Institute will help in lowering cycles of poverty for Latino communities in Marion County. $2 million will be directed towards aiding Latino high school students through: helping them enroll in postsecondary programs, training four cohorts of peer mentors and leaders, strengthening professional and academic mentoring resources on campuses, and connecting college graduates to career opportunities.

PATHWAYS TO CAREERS

PROGRAM GOALS

At the conclusion of this initiative, the enhanced pathway to good jobs will show:

More than a 13-percentage point increase in Latino high school graduates enrolling in college

A 70% college completion rate among the initiative’s cohorts

More than 6,250 Marion County Latino high school students will have received college admissions and financial aid information

2,000 parents will be engaged

48 students (four cohorts of 12 students in each) will be trained and serve as peer leaders at the three institutions

Up to 24 cohort students will have completed degrees and will be gainfully employed, enrolled in graduate school, or transferred to a four-year institution

3 to 5 thriving chapters of Latino professional associations with upwards of 2,000 Latino college students engaged; scores of professional mentors connected

Framework and lessons learned from the initiative will be published

2024 COHORT PATHWAYS TO CAREERS

INDIANA LATINO INSTITUTE

PATHWAYS TO CAREERS

2024 COHORT

B.A in Early Child Education

Marian University

Associate Degree in Business

Ivy Tech

B S in Biology

IU Indianapolis

HERNANDEZ

B S in Nursing

Marian University

VICTORIA

TAPIA ALANIS

Associate Degree in Media, Arts and Science

Ivy Tech

LUZEHIDY GARCIA

B.S. in Public Health

IU Indianapolis

YAMILET ACACUACHITL

Associate Degree in Business

Ivy Tech

MITCHEL SALAMANCAPIZANO

B.S in Nutrition and Wellness

Marian University

ANA ALMAZAN

B.S. in Neuroscience

IU Indianapolis

EMILY HERNANDEZ

B S in Psychology

Marian University

Associate Degree in Electrical Engineering

Ivy Tech

KATHERINE

GARCIA

B S in Nursing

IU Indianapolis

BRENDA DE LOS SANTOS

Associate Degree in Business

Ivy Tech

JUAN VERAS

JOANA SANTAMARIA

ALAN SANCHEZ

XIMENA ALANIZ

Ximena Alaniz

Marian University

B.A. in Early Childhood Education

Ximena is a dedicated Early Childhood Education major at Marian University St. Joseph’s College, where she serves as this year’s class president. Passionate about nurturing young minds, Ximena is committed to creating inclusive and engaging learning environments for her future classroom. Her leadership role has allowed her to advocate for her peers while honing her organizational and communication skills. She is excited to be a part of the Pathways to Career cohort this year as it will enhance her connections and allow for a broader scope of opportunities, which will enable her to take and foster that to her future students. She has a priority of promoting social-emotional development and fostering a love for learning. Ximena is determined to make a positive impact in her Latino community as a Latina scholar and educator.

Internship Site: Indiana Latino Institute

Juan Veras

Ivy Tech

Associate Degree in Business

As a first-year student at Ivy Tech Community College, Juan is working towards an associate's degree with plans to transfer to a four-year institution. He is deeply committed to his involvement with the Indiana Latino Institute, where he takes part of efforts aimed at supporting the Latino community. Driven by the inspiration of his family and personal aspirations, Juan is sharpening his leadership and communication skills through the Pathways to Careers Program. After completing his studies, he desires to pursue a career in management or finance, dedicated to making a positive impact and advocating for changes that will empower the Latino community.

Internship Site:

Ivy Tech Office of Career Link

Joana Santamaria

IU Indianapolis

B.S. in Biology

With the aspiration of becoming a Radiologist, Joana is currently a Freshman majoring in Biology at Indiana University Indianapolis. Her motivation comes from her friends and family and longs to serve as a role model for individuals in the Latino community. Joana has appreciated the opportunity to assist others through her internship programs while gaining proficiency in various technical applications. She values her participation in the Pathways to Career (P2C) program, as it empowers the Latino community and inspires fellow Latinos through the support it provides.

Internship Site:

IU Indianapolis Sophomore Internship Program Team

Alan Sanchez

Ivy Tech

Associate Degree in Electrical Engineering

Alan Jesus Sanchez is a Freshman at Ivy Tech Community College majoring in Electrical engineering. His future career goal consists of creating technology that will be able to assist individuals with disabilities. Alan’s motivation comes from a devoted mother who continues to make significant sacrifices to support his education and help him achieve his dream of graduating from college, along with his older brother serving as a role model for him. Thanks to the Pathways to Career program, he has gained the ability to engage with a broader range of individuals. This initiative has facilitated his outreach efforts to help those in need. He eagerly anticipates the forthcoming experiences and learning opportunities that lie ahead.

Internship Site: Ivy Tech Office of Learning Resource Center

Valeria Hernandez

Marian University

B.S. in Nursing

Valeria is pursuing a nursing degree through Marian University, with aspirations of becoming a pediatric or NICU nurse. Driven by the support of her family and friends, she aims to inspire other Latino students who are trying to pursue a higher education. Valeria is dedicated to serving as a role model for her three younger sisters and taking pride in being a firstgeneration student, thereby making her parents proud. Through her work at The Exchange at Marian University, Valeria has developed essential professional skills, overcome her shyness and embracing authenticity in her interactions The Pathways to Careers program has introduced her to a diverse group of individuals who share both common and unique experiences. Valeria is excited to explore the additional opportunities that the Pathways to Career program will provide; but above all, her foremost passion lies in assisting those in the Latino community.

Internship Site: Marian University

The Exchange

Victoria Tapia Alanis

Ivy Tech

Associates Degree in Media, Arts and Science

Internship Site: Ivy Tech Office of Admissions/ Enrollment

Victoria is a Freshman at Ivy Tech Community College with the hopes of transferring to Indiana University Indianapolis to pursue a bachelor's degree in media arts and science, specializing in 3D graphics and animation. Victoria draws ambition from her family and friends, seeking to serve as a role model for her two younger sisters and making her parents proud of her postsecondary education journey. As a first-year student in the Pathways to Career program, she is eager to enhance her social and creative skills while forming and developing new connections all throughout. She anticipates to embrace the range of experiences and opportunities that this program will present.

Luzehidy Garcia

IU

Indianapolis

B.S. in Public Health

Luzehidy is currently a Freshman attending Indiana University Indianapolis with a major in Public Health. Luzehidy finds motivation within her family as a first-generation student to obtain a higher education and become a successful Latina woman. Being a part of the Pathway to Careers program has allowed Luzehidy to develop new friendships and be presented with new opportunities that will guide her in her career path. Without a doubt, Luzehidy will continue striving for her parents, for herself and her community. She is excited to build her strengths and increase her knowledge as a Pathway to Careers scholar.

Internship Site: IU Indianapolis LGBTQ+ Center

Katherine Garcia

IU Indianapolis

B.S. in Nursing

Katherine plans to take the nursing route at Indiana University Indianapolis. She derives inspiration from her family and friends in order to thrive for success in her chosen field.

Being a first-generation student has allowed Katherine to view her educational journey as a commitment to earning a degree and succeeding, with the goal of setting a positive example for her younger siblings, while also honoring her parents' sacrifices. She has found fulfillment in strengthening her leadership skills through her internship and learning to engage with her community. Katherine is passionate about being part of the Pathways to Career (P2C) Program, as it allows her to empower the Latino community and contribute to their success.

Internship Site: IU Indianapolis Office of Undergraduate Admissions

Yamilet AcaCuachitl

Ivy Tech

Associate Degree in Business

Yamilet is a Freshman student at Ivy Tech Community College, majoring in Business Administration with the intention of transferring to a four-year institution to earn a bachelor's degree in marketing. As a first-generation student, Yamilet has taken a proactive approach to seeking out professional and career development opportunities. They actively engage with the Latino community on campus by serving as Vice President of the Student Organization of Latinos and mentoring students in a program specifically designed for Latino individuals. Their involvement in the Pathways to Career program has greatly enriched their professional network, improved their communication skills, and has enhanced their leadership abilities.

Internship Site: Ivy Tech Marketing Department

Mitchel SalamancaPizano

Marian University

B.S. in Nutritional and Wellness

Internship Site: Marian University

Unity Center

Mitchel attends Marian University and although she has yet to determine her specific career path, she is a diligent student who consistently exemplifies honesty, responsibility, and empathy, particularly toward the most vulnerable. She is always ready to assist those in need. As a role model for her younger sister, Mitchel has inspired her to consistently make the right choices. To her parents, she is an exemplary daughter, having obtained honors throughout her academic career. Being part of the Pathways to Career program and actively participating in projects to support the Latino community is a source of honor for her parents. They regard Mitchel as a symbol of Latino pride.

Ana Almazan

IU

Indianapolis

B.S. in Nursing

With the goal of becoming a pediatric nurse, Ana is a student at Indiana University Indianapolis working towards her degree in pre-nursing. Ana is greatly motivated by her family. Her determination to work hard in order to achieve her goals comes from knowing that her siblings are following in her footsteps. The Pathways to Career program has given her the space to grow professionally through gaining new skills and experiences. One of the most valuable things she has gained from the program is a sense of belonging. She believes she is a part of something special and is appreciative for every opportunity. Ana recognizes the support that the Indiana Latino Institute offers to the Latino community and is inspired to contribute to that.

Internship Site: Indiana Latino Institute

Emily Hernandez

Marian University

B.S. in Psychology

Emily plans to pursue a career in pediatric psychology by attending Marian University to study psychology and public health. Her passion for mental health, particularly in working with children, is driven by her family, her faith, and her desire to help others Emily is committed to supporting individuals in their mental and educational development. She views her journey as a first-generation student as a motivation to persevere and strive for success. Although she describes herself as hesitant, she has improved her leadership and soft skills through her participation in tabling events and engaging conversations with fellow students and parents. Emily takes great pride in being a mentor to others and witnessing their successes as they overcome societal and selfimposed limitations, which is why she values her involvement in the Pathways to Careers (P2C) program.

Internship Site: Marian University Office of Admissions

Brenda de los Santos

Ivy Tech

Associate Degree in Business

Internship Site: Ivy Tech Office of Career Link

As a Freshman, Brenda is currently attending Ivy Tech Community College, majoring in Business Administration with a focus on Finance. She draws motivation from her family and aspires to make her parents proud in recognition of the sacrifices they have made. She adheres to the motto, “You live, and you learn.” Brenda has appreciated the opportunity to enhance her teamwork skills, believing that collaboration enables the achievement of numerous goals. Furthermore, she has also found fulfillment in volunteering within the Latino community and meeting new individuals through the Pathways to Careers program. She is enthusiastic to discover the various opportunities that are waiting for her career path

Angel Avila

IU Indianapolis

B.A. in Computer Science

Angel Avila is currently a freshman student attending IU Indianapolis and majoring in Computer Science. His goal is to one day be a Software Engineer for a big company like Apple or Google.

Angel is a first-generation college student and hopes to make his family proud through his personal and academic accomplishments.

He currently is an intern with our Workforce Develop program, placed here at the Indiana Latino Institute using his skills to create videos, social media and other communication pieces. He has also been a great asset in supporting various aspects of ILI’s events throughout his time with the origanization.

Internship Site:

Indiana Latino Institute

Christian Yataco

Marian University

Physical and Health Education

A freshman at Marian University, Christian Yataco’s love for soccer has spilled over into his studies in Physical and Health Education. He would like to become a personal trainer or sport’s coach someday.

Playing college soccer has taught Christian the value of hard work and dedication on and off the field. One of the most important things that Christian has learned as an intern, is that it takes many people, no matter what your title, to accomplish a goal.

His contributions have assisted the Indiana Latino institute in program efficiency in data collection and program support. He also has participated in networking opportunities through ILI community partnerships that have opened his eyes to areas in Indianapolis and people he did not know before. He feels these experiences will carry over into his field of study in the future.

Internship Site: Indiana Latino Institute

Dana Lopez Rodriguez

IU Indianapolis Master of Social Work

Dana Lopez Rodriguez, Latina student, graduate University Indianapolis in degree in Social Work Philanthropic Studies.

Currently, she is in t completing her Master graduating May 2025. U Dana plans to pursue children’s therapist, with Hispanic community, pro therapeutic services. She i to continuing her advocac support and engage in i the Latino community.

Dana is grateful for the intern at ILI, where she h skills and witnessed required to serve Latino s families.