MESSAGE FROM BOARD CHAIR — January 2006
Representing the Chicana Latina Foundation as Board Chair has to be one of the positions in that I am not only proud to hold, but also humbled and challenged by. I ask myself, how is it possible that the daughter of a laundry worker and a welder whose own education together did not equal the 9th grade hold such an esteemed position as Chair of the Chicana Latina Foundation? My transformation and evolution happened because of the graciousness of women in my life, beginning with my mother, Beatriz and to the women in my early years in college. These mujeres together provided me with inspiration, mentoring, and were also an example of how we give to our community and family. By having an education and compromiso to the community we, as women are able to make a difference. For close to three decades, CLF board members have provided and continue to provide a commitment to support women in higher education through scholarship, mentoring and education.
Every year, my colleagues and I are amazed and strengthened in spirit when we read what a difference a scholarship from the Chicana Latina Foundation makes in the life of a woman and student. Their study and focus is on making a difference in the Latino community through their involvement in education, the arts, public policy, health, science, advocacy, and community organizing. Every applicant and recipient to CLF are trailing blazers, a role model in their families, and for the young women in their lives — their daughters, sisters and compañeras and of course la comunidad.
The importance of an educated workforce is matched by the demand for a college educated population. I am concerned that Latinos are the ethnic group least likely to participate in quality early care and education programs, lag behind other ethnic groups in testing, and preparation for college, and the group least likely to have a higher degree. This needs to change dramatically. It begins with having a common vision, a Chicana/Latina educated workforce. It is has been part of CLF's goal and the Latina Agenda adopted in 2000 to "expand the number of Latinas entering and succeeding in higher education and graduate degree programs." Now our challenge to our funders, CLF alumni and to the business sector is to change the paradigm and to invest in the education achievement of Chicana Latinas.
I welcome the challenge as a board chair to continue the legacy of my predecessors by providing inspiration, mentoring and education to another generation of mujeres. With the support of partners, funders and our alumni — we can certainly gain momentum, strength and make a difference in the future and education of Chicana/Latinas. An educated community is an investment in our future; join me in putting education first — an educated Latina!
Fuerza y Corazon,
Beatriz Leyva-Cutler, MA