NUESTRAS VOCES
& VOL 2, AUGUST 2025 PRESERVING OUR HERITAGE AND RIGHTS THROUGH MENTORSHIP AND LEADERSHIP FOR A BETTER TOMORROW
NACOPRW is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization seeking to promote the full participation of Puerto Rican and other Hispanic women in the social, economic and political life in the United States The Southern California Chapter (SoCal) achieves this by educating, developing leadership among Puerto Rican women and providing role models for our youth and our community
NACOPRW-SoCal celebrates what unites all of us: our love and respect for Puerto Rico, its traditions and people.
BOARD MEMBERS:
GLORIA SAN MIGUEL, MBA, PRESIDENT
MARJORIE PATTON, MS, CPC, ELI-MP 1ST VICE PRES
NILSA J. THORSOS, PH.D., 2ND VICE PRESIDENT
SONIA COLÓN-LAMAS, BA, AFIP, TREASURER
MARIE NUBIA FELICIANO, PH D , SECRETARY
For more information about our chapter, membership or donations visit us at:
www.nacoprwsocal.org
Editorial - Entre Nosotras
OUR EDITORS FOR THIS
Anaida Colón-Muñiz
WelcometotheAugustissueofNuestrasVoces2025!Webeganthisyearwithlotsofenergyand excitementthatcontinuesaswemovetowardstherestoftheyear.
Inthisissuewehaveexcitingnews,beginningwiththeMemberSpotlightfeaturingGiovannaSanguinetti Colón,whoseworkhasmadeasignificantimpactinhealthcareandtheLatinocommunity.Then,getready forthefallandwinterwithaspecialtreatthatwecanallmaketosweetentheholidays,pastelillosde guayaba!MemberGrisselBenítez-Hodgeprovidesherdeliciousrecipeonpage2.Thanks,Grissel!
Thisyear,weengagedinourfavoriteactivitiesaimedatsupportingLatinaeducationandpersonal advancement.Weareonceagainthrilledtoannounceour2025scholarshipwinners!Let’scelebrateand learnmoreaboutthefouroutstandingcandidateswhowillapplythefundstosupporttheiracademic pursuits.Togeneratethesefunds,weheldoursuccessfulthirdannualDominoTournamentandFundraiser onJune22 .Readontolearnabouttheeventandthesurprisingwinnersofthetournament,whoonce again,reaffirmedourLatinapower!
InElRincóndelCoquí,weremindyouaboutthisyear’sexceptionalrecipientofthe2025NACOPRWSoCal OrgulloBoricuaAward,IngridOtero-Smart.Weencourageallofyoutoregistertoattendthisfreeevent wherewewillrecognizethewell-knowntalentandsuccessofyetanotherBoricuawomanwhoisstanding outinSoCalasanexampleofourLatinapotential!WealsorecognizethecaringandnotableDr.Ana Jimenez-HamiinanarticleaboutherlatestachievementthatreachedtheshoresofSouthKorea! Additionally,weinterviewourdistinguishedmemberDr.AnaCeliaZentellawhereyouwilllearnmoreabout hertrailblazingresearchandstellarcareeronbehalfofSpanish-speakersintheU.S.
AstheupcomingSoCalchapterelectionsgetcloser,weurgememberstoconsiderrunningandservingon ourchapter’sboard.ItisaspecialopportunitytomakeyourmarkinSoCal!Coupledwiththeelection,we have veryexcitingnewsabouttheforthcoming52 AnnualNACOPRWnationalconventioninSanJuan, PuertoRico,heldfromNovember7 tothe9 ,2025.Don’tmissthisopportunitytomakeorextendatrip backtotheIslandwhilealsoregisteringfortheconventiontomeetourNACOPRWsistersfromchapters throughoutthecountry,hearfromexceptionalspeakers,andengageinmotivatingworkshopsandevents! nd th th
Fortunately,evenfromourhomesinSoCalwecouldventureintoPuertoRicothroughliterature.Inour RincónLiterario,wereviewthenovel,RaícesenelAire,writtenbywell-knownPuertoRicanTVandFilm ScreenwriterandActor,JulioTorresoto.Don’tmissit!
WebringclosuretothiswonderfulissuewithourBombaConnection,broadcastingthesuccessful universitytrajectoriesandgraduationsofouryouthastheypursuetheirdreamsthroughhighereducation. Don’tforgettomarkyourcalendarsforalltheupcomingevents,includingthecoquitomakingworkshop. Thankyouforyouron-goingdedicatedmembershipandsupport!
Milly C. Lugo-Ríos
MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: GIOVANNA SANGUINETTI COLÓN
By Gloria San Miguel
In this issue we are proud to highlight our member Giovanna Sanguinetti Colón, who joined our NACOPRW SoCal Chapter in 2024 and has made a meaningful impact in our Chapter
Born in Ponce, Puerto Rico, and raised in Orlando, Florida, Giovanna has called Orange County, California home for the past ten years She is married and the proud mother of three boys Giovanni, Italo, and Santiago Giovanna holds a doctorate in Health Science with a focus on Global Health and currently serves as Senior Director of Program for an agency providing mental health services to students in public schools and the broader communities of Orange County and Corona-Norco She also oversees a non-public school in Costa Mesa
Passionate about community well-being, Giovanna works tirelessly to address social determinants of health and bridge the gap between healthcare, basic needs, especially in the most impacted communities For the past two years, she has researched and shared critical information about the dangers of female genital mutilation She also serves as Chairwoman of Pueblos of CA, a nonprofit dedicated to meeting the basic needs of community members
Giovanna joined NACOPRW SoCal because of her deep commitment to supporting and empowering women, especially Latinas The organization’s mission resonated even more strongly with her because it fosters community among Puerto Rican women in the diaspora something she values deeply while living far from her beloved Island
Recently, Giovanna participated in the NACOPRW Scholarship Committee, finding the process both rigorous and inspiring Reading applicants’ stories reaffirmed her dedication to creating spaces where women can thrive in a society that often overlooks them
Thank you Giovanna for being a part of our Chapter and supporting our mission We are lucky to have you!
EL FOGÓN
BORICUA
LOS RICOS PASTELILLOS DE GUAYABA (GUAVA PASTRIES)
by Grissel Benítez-Hodge
Whether you grew up or have visited Puerto Rico (or other places in the Caribbean), you have likely tried these delicious pastries. Pastelillos de Guayaba are found in “panaderías” (bakeries) throughout the Island. These are flaky pockets of pastry puffs filled with pasta de guayaba (guava paste) and sprinkled with powdered sugar. Guava is a tropical fruit that is sweet and tangy. The guava paste is used in many desserts and appetizers. These Pastelillos are great to serve at parties or with your favorite cup of Café. Although I grew up eating these from the panaderías in Puerto Rico, I learned to make them when I was living in Hawaii from a young Puerto Rican Army wife who always treated us with a taste of ‘home-away-from-home’. They are easy to make and quite tasty. I assure you everyone will love them!
Ingredients
1 package of Pepperidge Farm frozen puff pastry
1 can or box of Goya Pasta de Guayaba (guava paste) - or any other brand
½ cup of water
½ cup of powdered sugar
Instructions:
Pastry: Follow the instructions on the frozen puff pastry box for thawing and baking. .Before baking, unfold and separate the puff pastry sheets along the lines. Place them on a flat surface, cut them with a sharp knife or pizza cutter into 3-4 inch squares, place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 15 minutes or until medium brown in color (avoid over baking). Let them cool and, carefully, split open each pastry square.
Guava Paste Filling: Cut guava paste in small cubes. Using half a can/box at a time, add l/2 a cup of water and bring to a boil, stirring and until the paste is spreadable. (You may also use the microwave for this process). Place a table spoon of the guava filling onto each half of a pastry puff square and close. Make sure the squares match. Dust with powdered sugar. Serve on a pretty platter and Enjoy!
Giovanna joined NACOPRW SoCal last September ‘24 and was part of the 2025 Elections Committee
2025 NACOPRW SOCAL SCHOLARSHIPS
¡WEPA! ¡WEPA!
AND THE WINNERS ARE...
CELEBRATING THE 2025 SCHOLARSHIP COMMITTEE
by Gloria San Miguel
The NACOPRW SoCal 2025 Scholarship Committee has once again gone above and beyond to make our annual scholarship program a success. This year’s committee - co-chaired by Marjorie Patton and Marie Nubia Feliciano, PhD, was joined by Sonia Colón-Lamas, Giovanna Sanguinetti Colón, Nilsa J. Thorsos, PhD, and Grissel Benítez Hodge - devoted countless hours to reviewing applications, conducting interviews with our talented applicants, and carefully reading each essay. Their dedication, insight, and compassion ensured that our scholarship awards truly reflect the values and mission of NACOPRW SoCal: “Preserving our Heritage and Rights through Mentorship and Leadership for a Better Tomorrow.” By investing their time and expertise, they have helped open doors for the next generation of leaders and changemakers in our community.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to each committee member for their commitment, professionalism, and passion for empowering others. Your work is a shining example of what it means to lead with purpose and heart.
LADIES IN THE HOUSE!!! OUR 3 ANNUAL DOMINO EVENT RD
By Sonia Colón-Lamas
Four women dominated NACOPRW’s 2025 Third Annual Domino Tournament and Fundraiser held on Dr Anaida Colón Muñiz and Claudia Rivera took First Place for the advanced level, with Sandra Luna and Breanna Lysette Adamovich both being first time players, taking Second Place They each received a beautiful trophy
The Domino game has long been seen as a men ’ s game in the Latino Culture This year women proved that they can dominate, and that they too belong at the top!! This victory has generated lots of excitement and many offers for rematches next year
With a delicious lunch, a colorful Kiosko, showcasing fabulous merchandise, and valuable opportunity prizes, the tournament not only raised funds for our Scholarship Program, was but was also proof that the Domino Table knows no gender!
Congratulations to the winners and to the planning committee members for once again putting together a successful and fun event
Winners of NACOPRW’s 2025 Domino Tournament! Anaida Colón-Muñiz & Claudia Rivera took First Place at the advanced level, while first-time players Sandra Luna & Breanna Lysette Adamovich claimed Second Place íFelicidades a las campeonas!
Event-Chair and Treasurer, Sonia Colón Lamas, 1 VP, Marjorie Patton, President,, Gloria San Miguel, and Secretary, Dr Marie Nubia-Feliciano
El Kiosko Boricua brought a taste of Puerto Rico to our event, offering members’ unique Boricua and other products Special thanks to Anaida Colón-Muñiz, Hilda Ovalle, María Quezada, and Breanna Adamovich for organizing, hosting and managing this beautiful cultural space
Above: Lots of concentration from the teams
Participants enjoying the delicious sandwiches and desserts before the competition begins
Smiles, laughter, and a dash of friendly competition! Our fabulous NACOPRW SoCal members lit up the room at the 3rd Domino Tournament celebrating culture, camaraderie, and
tradiciones!
SPOTLIGHT INTERVIEW: DR. ANA CELIA ZENTELLA - A LIFE DEDICATED TO LANGUAGE, IDENTITY, AND JUSTICE
by Dr Nilsa J Thorisos
From the vibrant streets of the South Bronx to the halls of academia across the nation, Dr Ana Celia Zentella has lived a life that celebrates the beauty of language, the resilience of culture, and the unshakable pursuit of justice Born to a proud Puerto Rican mother and a devoted Mexican father, she grew up in the 1940s surrounded by the music of many tongues hearing not just Spanish, but a kaleidoscope of Spanish and English varieties woven together in her community These early experiences didn’t just shape her identity they became the heart and soul of her life’s work
Dr Zentella’s academic journey is as inspiring as her trajectory She earned her B A in Spanish from Hunter College, CUNY, followed by an M A in Romance Languages and Literatures at Pennsylvania State University In 1981, she completed her Ph D in Educational Linguistics at the University of Pennsylvania with her groundbreaking dissertation, "Hablamos los dos We speak both": Growing up bilingual in New York’s El Barrio a pioneering exploration of bilingualism That research was expanded into a generational study, Growing up Bilingual: Puerto Rican children in New York (1997), which won the Book Award of both the Association of Latina and Latino Anthropologists/American Anthropology Association, and the British Association of Applied Linguists
Her distinguished career includes over three decades as Professor of Black and Puerto Rican Studies (now Africana/Puerto Rican/Latino Studies) at Hunter College, CUNY, followed by her role as Professor of Ethnic Studies at the University of California, San Diego From 2010 to 2012, she also chaired the Language and Social Justice Committee of the American Anthropology Association, reflecting her steadfast belief that “there is no language without power, ” which led her to call for an "anthro-political linguistics" in 1995
Dr Zentella’s research is as bold as it is compassionate She has shed light on:
The rich complexity of U S varieties of Spanish, English, and Spanglish
How Latinx families pass on language through socialization
The damaging impacts of “English-only” laws
The delicate balance between genuine cross-cultural communication and harmful stereotypes in language use
From studying the pronoun patterns of Spanish speakers in New York City to documenting the lives of transfronterizo students who cross the U S –Mexico border daily for school, her work is a testament to how language both shapes and is shaped by identity, migration, and power
In our conversation, Dr Zentella spoke with heartfelt urgency about the rise in hostility toward Spanish speakers since 2016 and the deep harm it causes, especially to children who may grow fearful of speaking their heritage language She shared stories of her English class for immigrant adults many of whom cannot attend class given their fears of deportation reminding us that language advocacy is also human rights advocacy
Her passion extends to honoring the mother tongue She champions the celebration of UNESCO’s International Mother Language Day every February 21st, underscoring the profound cognitive, cultural, and emotional benefits of speaking and preserving one ’ s first language
Through decades of teaching, research, and activism, Dr Ana Celia Zentella has become not just a scholar but a cultural guardian She has inspired countless educators, students, and community members to embrace linguistic diversity with pride, to challenge injustice, and to recognize that language is never just words it is power, history, and belonging In 2022, she was inducted into the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, one of the highest honors a scholar can receive in the U S
We are deeply grateful to Dr Ana Celia Zentella for being a valued member of our Chapter and for her generous support of the Scholarship Committee last year Her dedication to education, cultural preservation, and social justice reflects the very mission we strive to uphold By lending her voice, time, and expertise, she has helped us open doors for future generations, ensuring that our work continues to empower and uplift our community íGracias Dr Ana Celia Zentella!
INTERNATIONAL RECOGNITION IN SOUTH KOREA FOR DR. ANA JIMENEZ-HAMI AND OCCTAC
By Anaida Colón-Muñiz
This year, as Dr Ana Jimenez-Hami prepares for the 25 anniversary of Orange County Children’s Therapeutic Center (OCCTAC), she also recently received an international recognition in South Korea for her work in the Orange County Children’s Therapeutic Center for students with disabilities One of Dr Ana’s prized students, Roberto Reyes, was able to perform for a large audience participating at the 2025 International Special Music and Art Festival, Special Olympics in Seoul, Korea The International Special Music & Art Festival is an international art festival for developmentally disabled and non-disabled people It was held this year at Seoul National University from August 7th to the 10th This festival began in 2013 with a joint performance by disabled and non-disabled artists at the 2013 Pyeongchang Special Olympics World Winter Games as part of an evening cultural event It is the world's only culture and art festival for developmentally disabled artists around the world where they are able to express their own artistic talents through music and art While there were many wonderful performances, Roberto was the only representative from the United States, performing a classical piece on piano He and his mother, Beronica Roman, were able to visit this beautiful country with Dr Ana and her husband, Dr Anoosh Hami Roberto’s OCCTAC teacher, Phoebe Earbin Stanciell, was also present While in Korea, the OCCTAC team was able to travel and visits many beautiful sites and enjoy learning more about the history and culture of South Korea We are proud of the work done by our member Ana JiménezHami Don’t forget to mark your calendar for the 25 anniversary celebration of OCCTAC held on Thursday, October 9, 2025, at the Santa Ana Elks Lodge in Santa Ana Get your tickets by visiting www.occtac.org/25 th th
EL RINCóN DEL COQUÍ:
2025 NACOPRW SOCAL’S ORGULLO BORICUA AWARD: INGRID OTERO-SMART
JoinusforaninspirationalafternoonaswehonoranexceptionalSoCalPuertoRicanleaderandcometogetherincelebration, memberappreciation,connection,andprideon:
Saturday, September 27, 2025 from 3:00 PM to 5:30 PM atthe NormanP MurrayCommunityCenterat24932VeteransWay|MissionViejo,CA92692
Duringthiseventwewillbehonoring:
Ms Ingrid Otero-Smart with the 2025 NACOPRW SoCal’s Orgullo Boricua Award
Ms Otero-SmartisPresidentandCEOatCasanova//McCannandhasbeenrecognizedforhermorethan20yearsofleadershipand success in the US Hispanic advertising world, Ingrid Otero-Smart has opened doors, built bridges, and led with vision and heart Fromworkingwithmajorbrandstomakinganimpactinthecommunity,Ingrid’sinfluencehasbeenimpressiveandfar-reaching Ms Otero-Smartwillbespeakingtousaboutherimportantworkandleadershipovertheyears
Whether you are a longtime NACOPRW SoCal member or new to our community, this is the perfect opportunity to connect, get inspired by this remarkable Boricua woman, and learn more about our mission to support and empower Puerto Rican women and theiralliesinSouthernCalifornia Duringtheeventwealsohopetolearnmoreabouteachotherandourownexperiences Markyourcalendarsandjoinustohonorexcellence,buildcommunity,andcelebrateourBoricuapridetogether Thisisafreeevent Feelfreetobringafriendortwo,wewouldlovetomeetthem!
Lightrefreshmentswillbeserved DressCode:BusinessCasual Enjoygoodcompany,music,andcommunityspirit RSVPby September 15, 2025,bycompletingaformat https://formsgle/XfPuYZib5VhUWF6r6 orviaemailat nacoprwsocal98@gmailcom
GET READY FOR NACOPRW SOCAL ELECTIONS
by Gloria San Miguel, President
It’s that exciting time of year again NACOPRW SoCal Chapter’s elections are just around the corner! This October we will be electing our next group of passionate leaders to guide our chapter into another year of growth advocacy, and sisterhood
Serving on the Board or as a Committee Chair is not only an honor but also a unique opportunity to shape the future of our chapter Whether you have years of leadership experience or are simply ready to take your first step into a leadership role, your voice, ideas, and energy are needed!
Our chapter thrives on collaboration Tasks and committees are well-organized, responsibilities are shared, and our leadership team works together in a supportive and fun environment It is a space where creativity flourishes, friendships are built, and every contribution makes a meaningful difference towards our mission
We encourage you to nominate yourself or a fellow member for a leadership position If you are nominating someone else, please be sure to confirm with them first to ensure they are ready and excited to serve If you have any questions, feel free to contact me at nacoprwsocal98@gmail com
This is your moment to be part of something bigger to preserve our heritage, promote our rights, and empower women in our community Let’s continue building a chapter that uplifts and inspires! Nomination details and position descriptions will be shared soon In the meantime, start thinking about how you or someone you know can bring your unique talents to the table
Your chapter needs you!
NACOPRW SoCal Chapter - Elections Quick Guide
Summary of Officer Responsibilities
NATIONAL ELECTIONS COMING UP SOON
National Elections for NACOPRW Executive Board are also coming up this year Please be on the look for communications for timeline, positions, nominations, and election day
Join Us for NACOPRW’s 52rd Annual Convention in San Juan, Puerto Rico
SAN JUAN, PUERTO RICO
The National Conference of Puerto Rican Women (NACOPRW) is thrilled to announce our 52rd Annual Convention, taking place November 7–9, 2025 in beautiful San Juan, Puerto Rico This year ’ s theme, “Leading with Purpose: Building Bridges Across Generations,” celebrates the power of Puerto Rican women to unite, inspire, and lead across time, geography, and culture
This dynamic gathering will bring together women from the island and the diaspora for professional development, cultural workshops, and community advocacy It is also a great opportunity to connect with members from all NACOPRW chapters and create stronger bonds with our organization We invite you to be part of a experience that strengthens our leadership, honors our heritage, and builds lasting bonds across generations
Save the date! Registration and hotel information will be released soon plan now to join us in San Juan this November
When Puerto Rican women lead with purpose, we change the world!
RINCÓN LITERARIO: RAÍCES EN EL AIRE/ROOTS IN THE AIR BY JULIO TORRESOTO
by Milly C Lugo Ríos
Thenovel,RootsintheAir,isalivingportraitofthePuertoRicanDiasporaofthe1950s TheauthorJulioTorresoto wasborninGuayanilla,PR Likehismaincharacter,Guata,hebeganworkinginthemediaduringhisteens Rootsin theAirisaslimbook(only126pages)butitfullyexploresthelifeofafamilyduringthe‘50s,theirprecarious financialsituation,theirabilitytoadapttochangingcircumstances,andtheirzestinimprovingtheirlife,especially Guata Guataisabright,entrepreneurial,andalovingindividualwhosedevotiontohisfamilyandPRseepsin throughoutthebook Theideaof‘rootsintheair’metaphoricallysymbolizesGuata’syearningforeconomicstability, embracingchangeinordertosurvive,yetstillkeepingalivehisroots(memories,culture,andtraditions)
TorresotodoessuchagoodjobbringingtolifethechallengesexperiencedbyPuertoRicanswhoareforcedtoseek outsideopportunitiesinordertolive Evenduringtheirtimeontheisland,Guataandhisfamilyarefrequently transplantedfromtowntoslumtourbanareas,yettheirraícesremaininPuertoRicansoil Butlikemanypushedby thepooreconomy,theyandmanyotherPuertoRicanswereuprooted TheseuprootedPuertoRicanstriedto assimilateintothenewculture buttheirraícesendured,albeit,inaparadoxicalworldofAmericanismmixedwith PuertoRicanism,inotherwords,withourrootsintheair
WhetherthereaderisfamiliarwithstoriesofPuertoRicanmigrationorthecultureofthoseforcedtoseekabetter lifeawayfromtheircountry,RootsintheAirinvitesreadersintothelivesofcharacterswhoaresuspendedbetween cultures,wrestlingwiththecontradictionsofbelongingandexileandstillloyaltotheirroots Don’tmissit! (45coconutsoutof5)
BOMBA CONNECTION!
New College Beginnings!
The Rivera-Patton family is beaming with pride! Maximiliano (left) is off to New York City to begin his MBA at the NYU Stern School of Business. Meanwhile, his brother Salvador (right) returns for his second year at the Gonzaga University School of Law in Washington State. ¡Éxito Max y Salva!
Congratulations to Tymen Koestsier, who recently earned his Associate of Arts in History from Irvine Valley College! He is now heading to the University of California, Berkeley, where he will major in History with minors in Classics and Dutch Studies. Tymen aspires to become a history professor specializing in Ancient Roman History. Warmest congratulations to Tymen and the entire Koestsier-Feliciano family!
Mark your Calendars
Saturday,September27,2025-Orgullo BoricuaAward
October2025-ChapterandNational Elections
November7-9,2025-NACOPRWNational Convention,SanJuan,PuertoRico November15(tentative)-Coquito Workshop
Congrats Grads! Class of 2025!
Mercedes Julian and Janice Miller are thrilled to celebrate the graduation of their grandson, Gabriel Kristofer Murphy, from Great Hearts/Trivium Preparatory Academy. At 18, Gabriel will be attending Grand Canyon University this September to pursue a degree in Cybersecurity. ¡Felicidades, Gabriel!
member Hildegrade Feliciano and her husband Michael Cotto proudly celebrate their daughter, Isabel S. Cotto, who graduated from UC Santa Barbara with a Bachelor’s degree in Earth Science. ¡Felicidades, Isabel!
Milly C. Lugo-Ríos, Member and Contributor
Marjorie Patton, 1st VP and Contributor
Sonia Colón-Lamas, Treasurer and Contributor
Gloria San Miguel, President, Layout & Contributor
Anaida Colón Muñiz, Past President, Copy Editor & Contributor
Our
Members