On October 10th, AVANCE-Austin, in partnership with Austin Community College (ACC) hosted Strengthening Latino Futures, a panel event highlighting the importance and success of the AVANCE to College program. The event took place during Hispanic Heritage Month and featured a dynamic panel discussion about the program’s impact on Latino families in the Austin community.
Panelists included Maggie Jaime, AVANCE-Austin Interim Executive Director; Dr. Amber Kreischer, ACC Adjunct Professor and AVANCE to College Professor; and Saira Ramirez, an AVANCE to College 2023-2024 graduate. The conversation was moderated by Salwa Yordi, a Telemundo Entertainment Reporter and Latino Media Influencer. The panelists shared their experiences with the program and the critical importance of removing barriers for Latino immigrant families, such as language, financial, and childcare challenges, when accessing post-secondary education.
Stephanie De Leon, Sr. Development and Communications Manager, reflected on the event, noting, “This panel really captured the essence of what AVANCE to College is all about—creating a pathway for Hispanic parents to not only envision themselves in higher education but to make that vision a reality. It was powerful to see how much this program is changing lives.”
One of the most touching moments of the panel was Saira Ramirez’s testimonial. A recent graduate of the program, Saira shared how her participation helped her connect with peers, manage daily stress as a parent, and learn more about her child’s development. “I never imagined I would be pursuing a college certification,” Saira shared. “The support I received through AVANCE to College and the motivation from my peers helped me push forward.” Before even completing the program, Saira enrolled in ACC’s Interpreter program and plans to earn her certification by the end of this fall.
Stephanie De Leon also remarked, “Saira’s story is one of many that illustrate the transformative power of the AVANCE to College program. It’s inspiring to see parents like her not only grow in their roles as parents but also pursue personal goals that will benefit their families and the community.”
AVANCE to College continues to break barriers and create pathways for Latino families in Austin, providing them with the tools and resources to pursue higher education and workforce development. The event was a powerful reminder of the collective impact this program is having on the community and how it is shaping the future of Latino families.