On October 13, 2022, La Voz de la Comunidad, Inc. sponsored a Hispanic Heritage Month event in collaboration with Terra State Community College at the Doepker Center on the campus of the college.
This year’s event design was the “Estrella Awards”. Four Fremont Latino Leaders were recognized for their achievement in one of the selected categories of: Education, Business, Government, and Community Service. Each Honoree received an Award Plaque and attended the Mexican Buffet luncheon that was provided in the Atrium.
The program began with some opening remarks from City of Fremont, Mayor Daniel Sanchez.
The Estrella Award Honorees are as follows:
- Education – Dr. José Salinas, Director of Ohio Migrant Education Center
- Government – Angie Ruiz, City Council Member of the Third Ward for the City of Fremont
- Business- Alejandro Minor, Minor Collision
- Community Service – Alma Gutierrez, Outreach Specialist, Ohio Department Jobs and Family Services
The Honorees were acknowledged for their commitment to community excellence and demonstrating Exemplary leadership skills in serving our Fremont community in their individual capacity.
Alma Gutierrez has served for 32 years as Outreach Specialist identifying and securing job placements for migrant agricultural workers. She also worked tirelessly in seeking resources for the families to secure their employment. She has donated countless amounts of items for families for Migrant Farmworker Appreciation Day.
Dr. José Salinas has served for 22 years as Director of OMEC overseeing the interstate migrant education services of eligible migratory children through the process of identification, recruitment and supportive services.
Also, providing technical assistance to Ohio School districts that receive Title 1-Part C migrant education funding.
Dr. Salinas received another Award –Innovative Servant Leader Global Influence, by the Faculty at Bowling Green State University at the 25th anniversary of the Doctoral Leadership Studies Program.
Angie Ruiz- Council Member Ruiz has served for 10 years for the City of Fremont. She also owns an Independent Business as Interpreter and Notary Public services. She is an active member of TMACOG Serving as Executive Board member and Water Quality Council. She is also a member of many community Boards.
Alejandro Minor- Owner of Minor’s Collision, providing automotive services of restoration, detailing, and custom painting. He has owned his business for 12 years and located at 418 Knapp St. in Fremont.
He has mentored Fremont youth, and contributes to local events, such as the Cinco de Mayo Festival.
Lydia Alejandro, Director of La Voz de la Comunidad, Inc. was the lead organizer of the event with Terra College staff of Dr. Cory Stine, Johanna Mackey, Melissa Ramirez and Victoria Black.
Mary Alice Espiritu, Fremont School Board member assisted with the event and Co-Facilitated with the Awards.
Lydia Alejandro voluntary has assisted with Hispanic Heritage Month events for 10 years at Terra State Community College. This year’s program for the college students was to highlight the diversity of strong leadership in the City of Fremont.
Contact: Lydia Alejandro, Phone: 419-552-1542 and Email: lyd12alejandro@yahoo.com