LYNN — Latina Center Maria prepared to kick off its biannual International Summer Institute in Education, Business, and Leadership while highlighting the talents of some of its attendees at City Hall on Tuesday.
Magalie Torres-Rowe, the nonprofit organization’s executive director, said the institute provides opportunities for English-language learners to hear from renowned education and business professionals and to take part in professional development, all in Spanish.
This year, the summit will take place on Aug. 16 and 17 at the University of Massachusetts Boston.
Torres-Rowe said more than 200 people come from all over the Americas to attend the institute.
“Our mission is to empower the Latino community through education,” she said.
Two women who will attend the institute this weekend were recognized by Latina Center Maria, Mayor Jared Nicholson’s office, and the City Council for their accomplishments during a citation ceremony at City Hall.
Marleni Laurente is an entrepreneur from Puno, Peru who makes ponchos using alpaca fur with unique designs. Laurente uses the funds from selling the ponchos to support low-income women and the children of incarcerated women in Peru.
Dr. Alia Lorena Ibarra is an educator from Durango, Mexico who was recognized for owning a K-12 school.
“She really wants to prepare for better service,” Torres-Rowe said.
Ward 3 City Councilor Coco Alinsug welcomed attendees of the institute on behalf of the council as Ward 2 City Councilor Obed Matul translated Alinsug’s remarks into Spanish.
“Eight years ago, when I left my home country of the Philippines, I never in my wildest dreams thought that I would be standing here, speaking and welcoming you to our great city,” Alinsug said.
He said he hopes those who traveled to attend the institute feel the warmth and hospitality of the city.
Nicholson, speaking in Spanish, welcomed Laurente, Dr. Lorena Ibarra, and their families to the city.
Torres-Rowe said she taught for many years at Boston College and the University of New Hampshire in English, but wanted to make education more accessible for those who do not speak English.
She added that 75% of students at Lynn Public Schools, which she said is the third-largest school district in the state, are English-language learners.
“The future of this town is on Latinos’ shoulders,” she said. “The future of the economy is Latinos. This is why we have to empower Latinos through the summer institute.”
