Ten students from East Stroudsburg University’s chapter of MANA, A National Latina Organization, joined MANA’s 50th anniversary celebration from Oct. 3-5 in Washington, D.C., where they honored their heritage, strengthened their confidence and were further motivated to drive positive change in their communities.
Established as a student organization in 2023, the university’s MANA chapter advances the organization’s mission of empowering Latinas through leadership, education and advocacy.
Representing ESU were seniors Richermy Batista and Luciana Habib, sophomores Olivia Cole, Arianna Cruz, Kate Delgado, Berlinska Gerard, Maria Heredia Rojas, Layla Sabuur and Emalyann Serrano, and freshman Oliana Cole. The group was invited by MANA President and CEO Amy Hinojosa to serve as conference fellows, assisting with event operations throughout the celebration.
Highlights of the three-day experience included a tour of the White House and a private educational session at the U.S. Department of Education, where they learned about issues affecting Hispanic communities nationwide.
“Hearing about these hardships made me realize how much work has to be done, as well as the value of MANA’s advocacy and support activities,” Olivia Cole said.
“Being in a room full of Hermanas and Hermanos that dedicate their lives to representation, change, and building something more than just a national organization but a family, was one of the most motivating life experiences,” Serrano added.
For Batista, her experiences at the conference not only reinforced her confidence and leadership skills, but also showcased the power of her voice and the positive influence she can have on others.
“I had the chance to learn from the older generations, but I was also able to plant seeds of inspiration into the younger generation,” Batista said. “I’m thankful for this opportunity, as it was a catalyst for my personal and professional growth, equipping me with the tools to become a better leader and advocate for my community.”
The celebration also included recognition for the chapter’s staff advisor, Assistant Registrar of Graduation Services Aida Garcia-Cole, who received MANA’s 2024 President’s Award for Service for her commitment to the club.
“What I find most rewarding about my role with MANA is advocating for our students, which is a crucial part of my responsibilities as an advisor,” Garcia-Cole said. “I aim to help students become leaders and encourage our members to advocate for themselves as they pursue their goals and the mission of MANA.”
The conference was a first for many of the students, giving them an opportunity to step outside their comfort zone – with rewarding results.
“By taking a leap of faith, I got to go to the White House, visit the Department of Education, watch our amazing advisor, Mrs. Aida Garcia-Cole, earn an award acknowledging her hard work, and help make MANA’s 50th anniversary the incredible milestone it is,” Cruz said.
The anniversary celebration concluded with a festival on the National Mall, leaving students with fulfillment and the motivation to continue MANA’s work at ESU and in their communities.
“I appreciate trips like this while in college because experiences like this will really help you navigate your way while in college and discover what you really want to do in life,” Oliana Cole said.