Aurora University students attend national Hispanic conference

AURORA, Ill. July 25, 2006 - Seven Aurora University students, members of the Latin American Students Association (LASO), attended the National Council of La Raza (NCLR) annual conference July 7-12 at the Los Angeles Convention Center in Los Angeles.

More than 23,000 community organization leaders and activists, elected officials, members of the corporate and academic communities, senior citizens, and youth attended.

The NCLR annual conference is the largest national Hispanic civil rights and advocacy organization in the U.S. “Achieving the American Dream in a New Century” was the theme.

Keynote speakers included President Bill Clinton, California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, and Karl Rove, Deputy Chief of Staff, The White House.

Activities included exhibits, workshops, town halls, and entertainment.

Representing LASO were Michelle Calderon, Olynda de Hoyos, Eva Orozco, Jessica Diaz, and Jorge Cabadas, Aurora residents; and Michele Romero and Caleb Beltran, St. Charles.

Eva Serrano, LASO adviser, accompanied the students. She said AU students participated in a special leadership track for Latino college students from across the nation. Students learned about community service, grassroots leadership, peer mentoring, and student involvement in immigration marches.

“This conference exposed students to national issues affecting the U.S. Latino community,” Serrano said. “Students were inspired by speakers and presentations to play an active role in the advancement of U.S. Latino society.”

Beltran, a senior health sciences major from St. Charles said, “Knowing that Aurora University supported this trip tells me that they care about me and my community. It was really meaningful to interact with Latino professionals from across the U.S., and to hear presentations by President Bill Clinton, Karl Rove, Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger, and Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa of Los Angeles.

“I feel inspired to continue my education and get other students excited about participating in LASO and other clubs at Aurora University,” Beltran said.

Romero, a sophomore elementary education major from St. Charles, said she met great people, heard interesting presentations, and did some sightseeing. “I feel different about who I am as a Latina and why it is important to finish my degree,” Romero said. “I want to help advance my community and the U.S.”

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