Casa de las Américas Celebrates Student Ambassador Program and Honors Key Contributors
LONG ISLAND CITY, NY (June 11, 2025) — On June 6, Casa de las Américas at LaGuardia Community College hosted a heartfelt celebration recognizing the achievements and dedication of its Student Ambassador Program. This event highlighted the program’s core mission: to provide mentorship, leadership, and civic engagement opportunities for students of Latinx, Latin American, and Caribbean descent. Through this fellowship, students gain firsthand experience in the operations of a college cultural center, enriching their academic, personal, and professional development while preparing them for diverse career paths.
The celebration brought together students, faculty, and staff to honor the growth and impact of the Student Ambassador Program. Attendees reflected on how the initiative has helped create a sense of community and belonging for participants, fostering leadership and empowering students to become active contributors both on campus and beyond.
A highlight of the event was the special recognition of Dr. Ingrid Veras, Associate Professor in the Natural Sciences Department, and Dr. Ryan Mann-Hamilton, Associate Professor of Social Science, for their unwavering commitment to Casa de las Américas. Dr. Veras played a central role in organizing the celebration alongside Casa manager Nedelka Sotelo, whose leadership and vision continue to guide La Casa’s success.
In a particularly poignant moment, gratitude was extended to Dr. Ryan Mann-Hamilton, who will be stepping down from his role as co-director. His years of dedication were instrumental in helping establish and shape Casa de las Américas into the vibrant, student-centered space it is today. Dr. Mann-Hamilton served as an inaugural co-director along with Dr. Sonia Alejandra Rodríguez, co-director of La Casa and associate professor of English. His contributions have left a lasting legacy of mentorship and community building.
Awards were presented to the Ambassadors for their participation and contributions during the Spring 2025 semester. Winners are as follows:
- Best Dressed Award – For stylish professionalism. – Nedelka Sotelo
- Mentor of the Year Award – For guiding and helping colleagues grow. – Nataly Briones
- Team Player Award – For collaboration and positive attitude. – Luminie Carreno
- The Silly Goose – Melissa Ortega
- The Silent Superstar – Gets things done without making a fuss. – Hermione Piedra
- The Office Mom – Always looking out for everyone. – Monique Gonzalez
- The Drama Queen – Ingrid Veras
- The Meme Lord – Shares the funniest GIFs and memes. – Miguel Pacheco
- The Big Brain – Crystal Matos
- Creative Problem-Solver Award – For unique and effective solutions. – Ryan Mann-Hamilton
- The Reliable One – Alexandra Garcia
- The Best Music Recommender – Xanthia Lopez
- Future CEO Award – For outstanding leadership and organizational skills. Ailec Tapia Susana
- The Positivity Champion – For always spreading good energy and encouragement. – Bianca Monique Mercado
- The OG Award – Estefania Gonzalez
- The Comedian Award – For bringing laughter and fun to the group. – Emmanuel Dufresne
- The Best Networking – Kevin Villa
- The Networking Pro Award – For making connections and knowing everyone. – Rebecca Ramos
- The Influencer – Dona Desire
- The Advocate – Rabiha Hamdan-Garcia
The June 6 event was not only a celebration of student leadership but also a tribute to the faculty and staff who make such impactful programming possible. Casa de las Américas continues to thrive as a cornerstone of cultural and academic enrichment at LaGuardia Community College, thanks to the collaborative efforts of its passionate community.
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LaGuardia Community College (LAGCC), a Hispanic-Serving Institution, located in Long Island City, Queens offers more than 50 associate degrees and academic certificates, and more than 65 continuing education programs to prepare New Yorkers for transfer to senior colleges and rewarding jobs and careers. An institution of the City University of New York (CUNY), the College reflects the legacy of our namesake, Fiorello H. LaGuardia, the former NYC mayor beloved for his advocacy of the underserved. Since 1971, LaGuardia’s academic programs and support services have advanced the socioeconomic mobility of students from Queens, NYC and beyond.
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