On a crisp evening of November 21st, LatinoLEAD hosted Conecta y Celebra on Campus at the University of St.Thomas, bringing together over 100 Latine college students and professionals for an inspiring night of mentorship, connection, and growth. This event, created in partnership with the university’s HOLA student group, exemplifies the power of community and the transformative impact of mentorship.
What is Conecta y Celebra on Campus?
Conecta y Celebra on Campus is one of LatinoLEAD’s flagship leadership initiatives, designed to empower Latine college students by connecting them with professionals who share their heritage, experiences, and aspirations. Many of the students who attended are first-generation college students or immigrants, and for some, this was their first experience with mentorship—particularly from someone who looks and sounds like them.
As Brenda Sanchez, Director of Leadership Programs at LatinoLEAD, shared:
“Last night, we hosted Conecta y Celebra on Campus at the University of Saint Thomas and welcomed over 100 students and mentors to kick off our mentorship program. Students, volunteer mentors, and network professionals stepped up to share guidance, support, and their valuable tips on beginning a professional career. Most of our students identified as first-generation college students or immigrants and never had a mentor—especially one that looks like them. As students and mentors make connections throughout the school year, we need your support in sustaining our initiatives so that students and mentors can make the lifelong relationships we all know we need to succeed, and we can continue these meaningful programs.”
The evening was about more than exchanging business cards; it was about building bridges that last.
Why Partner with HOLA at the University of St. Thomas?
LatinoLEAD partnered with HOLA, the student-led Latine cultural club at the University of St. Thomas, to create an inclusive and welcoming space for students to explore career opportunities and build meaningful relationships. HOLA’s mission centers on spreading awareness and sharing Latine culture with the St. Thomas community through engaging events, from educational conferences to school dances celebrating diversity and inclusion. Their programming highlights the richness of Latin-American culture, including its food, music, language, and traditions.
HOLA’s unwavering commitment to supporting Latine students aligns seamlessly with LatinoLEAD’s mission to empower and uplift the community while creating pathways to success. Together, we created a dynamic space where students and mentors could connect, celebrate, and grow.
Hosting the event on campus was intentional. By meeting students in their space, we emphasized the importance of mentorship as part of their academic and professional journey while honoring their unique backgrounds.
Andres Delgado, an International Business major student leader from HOLA shared:
“I loved the experience of being able to connect with multiple people that have similar aspirations and experiences. Networking with them allowed me to have a better understanding of paths I could take, and understand that I am not alone. Sharing my own experiences, being vulnerable, and connecting made me value the importance of networking. I would definitely love to attend another event like this.”
The Impact of Conecta y Celebra On Campus
The event’s impact was both immediate and far-reaching. Students left feeling empowered, supported, and inspired, while mentors expressed gratitude for the opportunity to give back to their community.
One mentee, Augsburg University Finance major, Keven Mendoza Cruz, remarked:
“I really enjoyed the event because I was able to build vulnerable, real connections with the mentors.”
Mentors also reflected on the experience:
“Conecta y Celebra on Campus was such a fun and engaging experience as a mentor. It gave me the chance to collaborate and connect with fellow Latine mentors and students who shared similar backgrounds while also bringing diverse perspectives. The event served as a meaningful bridge, offering students the opportunity to engage with mentors from various industries, ask thoughtful questions, and continue building their professional networks,” said mentor Frank Valtierrez, Senior Commercial Real Estate Credit Analyst | Assistant Vice President.
The evening highlighted the importance of collective effort. Together, we’re creating a ripple effect of mentorship and leadership that will strengthen the Latine community for generations to come.
One of our very own LatinoLEAD team members, Melissa Gonzalez Vazquez, now Communications and Community Engagement Manager, experienced the transformative power of Conecta y Celebra firsthand as a mentee in 2022. At the time, Melissa was nearing graduation from Carleton College and grappling with a significant decision: should she return to her hometown of Houston, Texas, or carve out her post-college path in Minnesota?
Through Conecta y Celebra, Melissa connected with mentors who showed her that thriving Latine communities exist vibrantly beyond the familiar hubs of California, New York, Florida, and Texas. These conversations opened her eyes to the depth of culture and community in Minnesota. Staying didn’t mean giving up her roots or culture—it meant discovering how to cultivate and embrace the Latine community wherever she was.
Now, as a leader at LatinoLEAD, Melissa is paying it forward, helping create spaces where other Latine students can find guidance and inspiration as they navigate their own journeys. Her story is a testament to the lasting impact of mentorship and the strength of community in shaping meaningful futures.
Looking Ahead
Conecta y Celebra on Campus is just one of the many ways LatinoLEAD works to uplift and empower our community. But sustaining and growing these programs requires continued support. If you were inspired by the impact of this event, we encourage you to get involved—whether by volunteering, mentoring, or donating to ensure these opportunities remain accessible to all.
As Brenda so beautifully expressed, these connections are vital to success: “Lifelong relationships like these are what we all need to succeed.” Let’s continue to build them together.
Thank you to the University of St. Thomas, the HOLA group, and all the students and professionals who made this night unforgettable. Your dedication inspires us to keep moving forward. ¡Nos siguen inspirando a todos!
Students and mentors, remember to fill out the mentorship engagement form and the Conecta y Celebra on Campus feedback form so we know how to best support you!
Interested in supporting our programs? Contact us at info@latinoleadmn.org or visit linktr.ee/latinoleadmn to learn more about how you can help make a difference.