NFA North Celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month with Panel Discussion

On Friday, October 7th NFA North Campus hosted a Hispanic Heritage Month Panel Discussion to celebrate and honor Newburgh's local leaders. The panelists included Jacquelyn Quinones - Spectrum News Reporter, Inaudy Esposito - Executive Director of Orange County Human Rights Commission, Jose Gomerez - Newburgh Police Commissioner, Genesis Ramos - Orange County Legislator and Giselle Martinez - Newburgh City Councilwoman. 

Newburgh Mayor, Torrance Harvey, Mr. Doddo and Ms. Flores acted as moderators for the event. Congressman, Patrick J. Ryan was also in attendance and spoke on the importance of being able to listen to one another in order to learn and embrace our differences. 

The distinguished panelists briefly discussed their origins and how they came to be a part of the Newburgh community.   Colorism, culture, diversity and inclusivity were just a few of the topics touched on during the panel discussion. Scholars in the audience asked intriguing questions which led to conversations on the nuances and complexities of being Hispanic in America.  

Each panelist shared stories that differed from their peers on stage, yet the cultural similarities were evident. The common theme in each story was a determination driven by something greater than their immediate surroundings. Hispanic culture is rich and its people are proud.  While each panelist's roots derived from different Spanish speaking countries, the details of their personal journeys resonated with students from all walks of life. 

A special Thank you to the panelists, guest speakers and moderators:

Panelists:

• Jacquelyn Quinones - Spectrum News Reporter
• Inaudy Esposito - Executive Director of Orange County Human Rights Commission
• Jose Gomerez - Newburgh Police Commissioner
• Genesis Ramos - Orange County Legislator
• Giselle Martinez - Newburgh City Councilwoman 

   

   Guest Speaker

• Patrick J. Ryan - U.S. Congressman

   

   Guest Moderator

  Torrance Harvey - Mayor of Newburgh

   

   

   LINK TO PHOTO ALBUM

ATTENTION: Are your scholars or colleagues doing something great? Please contact the district Communications Team at communications@necsd.net. We’d love to visit your class or event and/or post your pictures and recap to highlight the amazing accomplishments throughout our district!