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UA-PTC to host “Latinos Leading Change” panel discussion for Hispanic Heritage Month Sept. 25

University of Arkansas Pulaski Technical College will host a panel discussion titled Latinos Leading Change Through Career and Culture in observation of Hispanic Heritage Month on Wednesday, Sept. 25 at 11 a.m. The event will be held at UA-PTC CHARTS Theater on the college's Main Campus in North Little Rock.

The panel will feature three prominent Latino leaders in Arkansas: Sandra I. Carmona Jobe, Jorge Gonzalez, and Itzel Velazquez. The discussion will be moderated by Mayo Johnson, Teaching Professor of Computer Science at UA-PTC.

The event is free and open to the public. Tickets can be reserved at uaptc.edu/charts/ticketing.

Panelist Spotlights:

Sandra I. Carmona Jobe is a dedicated advocate for higher education access, particularly for low-income and first-generation students. She currently serves as the TRIO Programs Community Outreach Manager and is a co-founder and Vice President of Mamas Unidas LR, a non-profit organization focused on empowering Spanish-speaking families to pursue higher education.

Jorge Gonzalez is the Director of Business Inclusion at the North Little Rock Chamber of Commerce. A first-generation Mexican American, Gonzalez has spearheaded initiatives to grow the Chamber's support for minority and women-owned businesses.

Itzel Velazquez is the Capital Access Manager at the Little Rock Kiva Hub. In this role, she is responsible for facilitating microloans to local entrepreneurs. Beyond her professional responsibilities, Itzel is actively involved in various community organizations.

Mayo Johnson, the moderator, is a pillar of community engagement at UA-PTC. He is Teaching Professor of Computer Science and serves as Chair of the Cultural Diversity and Community Involvement Committee and has extensive experience moderating discussions on race, equity, and social justice.

This panel discussion is a valuable opportunity to celebrate the contributions of Latinos in Arkansas and explore the various ways they are leading change in their communities and careers.

Pictured, clockwise from top left: Jorge Gonzalez, Itzel Velazquez, Sandra I. Carmona Jobe, and Mayo Johnson