Latinas Rising 2024: Amplifying Latina Voices at CSUSB

The Division of Student Affairs hosted its fourth annual Latinas Rising event on November 15 at California State University, San Bernardino (CSUSB). This year’s theme, Mujeres Brillantes: Amplifying Latina Voices, celebrated Latina stories by focusing on identity, values, and the transformative journeys shaping Latina experiences.

The conference featured inspiring Latina leaders who shared their personal stories, offering insights, encouragement, and professional navigation skills.

The event opened with a dynamic keynote address by Juanita E. Mantz, a USC law graduate, Riverside County Deputy Public Defender, writer, performer, and podcaster.

A distinguished faculty panel followed, featuring:

• Dr. Nancy Acevedo, Professor of Educational Leadership and Doctoral Studies at CSUSB.
• Julia Amante, a multi-published women’s fiction author.
• Dr. Sharon Velarde Pierce, Associate Professor of Public Administration at CSUSB.
• Dr. Angie Denisse Otiniano Verissimo, Associate Professor of Teaching at the UCLA Fielding School of Public Health.

Throughout the day, attendees engaged in insightful networking discussions and Q&A sessions with the speakers. These interactions allowed participants to connect on a personal level while gaining valuable advice on navigating their own professional paths.

Latinas Rising 2024 continued its mission to inspire and empower Latina students and community members by amplifying diverse voices and fostering meaningful connections.