Siena Hosts Latino Youth Conference

Latino heritage was on display at Siena in October as the College hosted the second annual Latino Youth Conference, organized by the Capital District YMCA Black and Latino Achievers Program.

 

The two-day conference, held during Hispanic Heritage Month, brought together almost 150 Latino and Latina teenagers grades 8 through 12 to promote education, personal development and the celebration of the Latino culture.

 

“The kids had the opportunity to meet and listen to prominent Latino community and business leaders and were highly engaged during each workshop. I think the kids took a lot from this event,” said Latino Youth Conference co-chair, Jennifer Santiago.

 

Capital Region community, business, and education leaders discussed their experiences and success stories, affirming the theme of the event, “Si, se puede!” or “Yes, you can!”

 

Siena College Assistant Vice President of Academic Affairs, Alfredo Medina, Jr. was among the presenters. Medina said the Latino population in the United States is expected to triple over the next 40 years, which is why he was proud to help the young people prepare for success as the country changes.

 

“Latinos are on pace to become the single largest ethnic group in the United States by 2050 … I am humbled and honored to be addressing the future leaders and influencers of this great country,” Medina said. 

 

Siena’s Assistant Director of Admissions and Coordinator of Multicultural Recruitment, Tony Rivera also participated in the event by sitting on the Hispanic Professional Career Panel. He told the teens about how he was able to overcome adversity to advance his career.

 

 “In life you are presented with opportunities,” Rivera said. “It is important that you make the most of your opportunities. You must believe and have faith in yourself.” 

 

Organizers said the messages and success stories shared during the event will motivate the participants to excel in school and consider pursuing a college education.