In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, we spotlight our Hispanic staff members, Melissa and Maddie, who bring invaluable perspectives and talents to our team. Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to celebrate the Hispanic community’s vibrant traditions, histories, and accomplishments, and we are proud to recognize and share the stories of those who play a vital role in our mission.
Melissa is the Marketing and Communications Director at Centre Foundation.
What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you, and how do you typically celebrate it with your family or community?
As a first-generation American with an Ecuadorian father and Colombian mother who arrived in America in the mid-sixties, Hispanic Heritage Month is a powerful reminder of the roots that shaped me. Though I was born in America, Spanish was my first language, and I only learned English once I started school. My family, language, and culture were integral to my early life. However, it wasn’t until I reached adulthood that I truly understood the profound impact my Hispanic heritage had on my worldview.
Is there a particular tradition, food, or cultural practice from your Hispanic heritage that holds special significance for you?
Growing up, my summers alternated between Ecuador and Colombia, where food was much more than just sustenance. Every meal was a major event, often taking what felt like an entire day to prepare and was a celebration in itself! Storytelling and humor were as natural as breathing in my extended family, adding a special flavor to every gathering. I particularly cherish the times at my uncle’s hacienda in Ecuador, with its stunning views of the Andes, where family came together for dancing and community and where I got my first salsa lesson from my cousins. These moments captured the heart of Latino culture—family, joy, and gratitude.
Who is a Hispanic or Latino figure, either from history or in your life, who has inspired you, and why?
My parents are my greatest source of inspiration. They arrived in this country, learned a new language, and adapted to a world that was entirely new to them. Starting from factory jobs, they obtained U.S. citizenship, worked their way up to corporate success, and eventually became entrepreneurs.
Their resilience, adaptability, and relentless pursuit of success despite the odds have profoundly influenced me. They instilled in me a deep value for education and inclusivity and the belief that the challenges they faced as immigrants were not setbacks but proof of their capability to achieve great things. Their story is a powerful reminder of the strength that comes from diversity, how inclusive environments can drive progress, and the importance of giving others a chance to succeed.
How has your experience of Latin culture influenced your approach to the work you do?
As a first-generation American with immigrant parents, my experiences have profoundly influenced my work. Seeing my parents’ struggles and successes has fostered a deep commitment to helping those who face obstacles in obtaining resources. The rich storytelling traditions of my Latino culture have enhanced my ability to create compelling narratives that showcase successes while also drawing attention to available assistance. I am driven by the belief that with the right support, everyone has the potential to thrive!
Maddie is the Executive Administrative Assistant at Centre Foundation.
What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you, and how do you typically celebrate it with your family or community?
To me, Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to embrace, share, and celebrate the incredibly vibrant spirit of Hispanic culture. As diverse as it is colorful, there is so much to learn from Hispanic culture – from fantastic food to innumerable dialects to outrageously fun music and dance! Our family loves participating in local celebrations, like the upcoming Latin Festival, and enjoying these cultural experiences right in our own kitchen.
Is there a particular tradition, food, or cultural practice from your Hispanic heritage that holds special significance for you?
I love Latin music and dancing! Whether it’s salsa, merengue, bachata, or reggaeton, I love the music and enjoy getting on the dance floor occasionally!
Who is a Hispanic or Latino figure, either from history or in your life, who has inspired you, and why?
My father has been a huge inspiration to me, and a role model for discipline, perseverance, honor, integrity, and hard work. Shortly before I was born, he joined the US Army not knowing any English. He went through grueling training by day and taught himself English by the light of a flashlight at night using an English dictionary, a Spanish dictionary, and his study materials. He faced much discrimination and prejudice, but no matter what he pulled through to support his family. I am the person I am today in large part because of the example he gave while I was growing up.
How has your experience of Latin culture influenced your approach to the work you do?
I have always been passionate about my culture and getting involved in Diversity Equity, Inclusion and Belonging (DEIB) initiatives. At Centre Foundation, I am so excited to see the steps our DEIB Committee is taking to fill gaps in equity in our community. We just opened grant applications for the Equitable and Inclusive Communities Fund, which will grant $2,250 this year! In my previous role, I was Chair of the Hispanic Employee Resource Group for two years and helped connect Hispanic employees and allies through programs and events. In college, I was President of the Student Organization of Hispanics, Latinos, and Allies for three years and we held many events, including free Latin dance lessons for students, every year!
