The Nicaraguan community was featured through authentic food and music at La Plaza’s Night of the Americas annual dinner on May 3.
The 19th annual event is the organization’s preeminent fundraiser for the Latino community in Central Indiana. Last year, the dinner hosted over 400 of Central Indiana’s business, public, and community leaders.
“Night of the Americas not only showcases the impactful programs and services of La Plaza but also celebrates our vibrant community influence,” said Miriam Acevedo Davis, President and CEO of La Plaza. “We honor both emerging and seasoned leaders and acknowledge the exceptional achievements of outstanding Latino scholars.”
The Hispanic American Service Awards winners and the La Plaza Scholarship recipients were recognized at the celebration held this year at the Indiana Roof Ballroom.
Among the honorees was Dr. Deanna Reinoso, president of the CCFP board of directors and medical director of Eskenazi Health’s social determinants of health. Dr. Reinoso was recognized as an “Outstanding Community Leader.” Oscar Gutierrez of Bondy Consulting for “Outstanding Corporate Leader.” Jocelyn Roman and Katya Ufer Giron for “Outstanding Young Latina Leaders.”
La Plaza Scholarship recipients are Adelaida Pimental, Estefany Alvarado Valdez, Mateo Gomez, Kenya Diaz-Sargreo, Alex Urbina, and Karla Bravo.
Each year, La Plaza awards up to six $2,000 four-year college scholarships to deserving Latino students from across Indiana. Students are selected based on their academic record, community involvement, and financial need.
“For over 25 years, the La Plaza Scholarship Fund has been instrumental in generating vital funds that enable deserving Latino students in Indiana to pursue their post-secondary education,” said Acevedo Davis. “For many who are ineligible for other forms of aid, these scholarships are pivotal, often being the key difference in their educational journeys. Each recipient is an extraordinary student who exemplifies the potential and resilience of our community.”
La Plaza accompanied students to participate in Purdue Diversity Day on April 13. Attendees experienced a variety of activities to get an overview of the campus, Purdue’s academic programs, and campus life. Students also learned about the next steps for getting to college.
¡La semana pasada llevamos a 17 de nuestros estudiantes de Tu Futuro al Día de la Diversidad en Purdue! – La Plaza shared on Facebook. “We dedicate more than 250 hours annually to each of our Tu Futuro students, meeting weekly throughout the year, including weekends and summer, to prepare them not only academically, but for life,” read the post in Spanish.
Among the highlights of the celebration was the performance of Toro Huaco, a traditional Nicaraguan dance that is part of the country’s Native American and Spanish cultural heritage.
La Plaza’s mission is to strengthen Central Indiana by advocating for and preparing Latino students for educational success and by connecting Latino families to health and social services.
Cover Photo: Leadership Institute for Latino Youth (LILY) (Credit: La Plaza)