LETI celebrates its 13th year shaping Latino leadership in Washington

Forty-four students graduated from the Latino Educational Training Institute (LETI) Latino Leadership Initiative at the University of Washington Bothell, marking the program's 13th graduation ceremony. Participants included students from Edmonds College and Skagit Valley College, who engaged in leadership training and community service projects. Keynote speaker Dr. Victoria Breckwich Vásquez highlighted the underrepresentation of Latino contributions in U. S.

history, noting that 87% remain absent from educational resources. Student Dulce Brambila Reyes shared her journey of discovering cultural pride and unity through the program. Mayelli Ayala, a public health major, emphasized the importance of initiatives like LLI in cultivating diverse leaders who reflect their communities. LETI founder Rosario Reyes announced plans to include Shoreline Community College in future ceremonies. The initiative aims to prepare students for leadership roles to energize their communities.

The graduates’ experiences underscore the significance of empowering Latino voices in various sectors, from education to public service.