Great Lakes Wire

On April 25, the Hispanic Latino Commission of Michigan (HLCOM) organized its annual Statewide Post-Secondary Graduation Celebration at the Michigan Historical Center in Lansing. The event saw participation from over 40 students across technical programs, community colleges, four-year universities, and graduate programs throughout Michigan. More than 115 students and guests attended a reception with food, music, and photos before the ceremony.

During the celebration, students received certificates and serape stoles inspired by Latino culture to wear proudly at their respective graduation ceremonies. HLCOM Executive Director Dr. Isabel Montemayor-Vazquez emphasized the importance of recognizing Latinos who represent a small percentage of graduates from post-secondary institutions. "These are the future policy makers, educators, scientists and leaders we need for our community to have a voice and to succeed," she stated.

The keynote address was delivered by Gloria Lara, former chair and current commissioner of the Michigan Civil Rights Commission. She shared her experiences at Harvard Business School and her career in the male-dominated automotive industry. Student speakers Sofia Rosales and Alexie Milukhin also addressed attendees. Rosales has earned her master’s degree in political science from Michigan State University and plans to pursue a doctorate. Milukhin completed her master’s degree in public policy from the University of Michigan and will serve as Director of Policy with Michigan's Population Growth Office.

The commission aims to celebrate educational achievements while encouraging students to apply their skills within Michigan's workforce. Vice Chair Florensio Hernandez offered words of encouragement: "No matter where you go from here, I hope you stay rooted. Rooted in who you are. Rooted in the love and strength that brought you all this far because being Latino isn't just your heritage—it's a blessing and a superpower."