Thursday, November 21, 2024

DC theater caters to diverse Latino tastes

Posted by Elena del Valle on October 12, 2007

hmprgala.jpg 

Hugo Medrano and Gabriela Fernandez-Coffey 

Photo: GALA Hispanic Theatre

For the last 32 years theater lovers in Washington D.C. have been able to attend performances at the GALA (Grupo de Artistas Latino Americanos) Theater at Tivoli Square. For the 2007-08 season the theater will receive support from Target, American Airlines, Starbucks Coffee Company, Telemundo Washington, DC and Viva 900 am; and partner with, to name a few, Embassy of Spain, The San Francisco International Arts Festival, La Peña Cultural Center, Mexican Cultural Institute, New Performing Arts Center, National Endowment for the Arts, National Performance Network, Program for Cultural Cooperation between Spain’s Ministry of Culture and U.S. Universities, and Washington Performing Arts Society.

“As one of the leading Latino theaters in the nation, GALA is proud to be at the heart of DC’s dynamic and diverse cultural landscape,” said Hugo Medrano, founder and producing artistic director of the theater. “At GALA culture is never a barrier but always a bridge, uniting us across boundaries and awakening our identity, pride, and endless passion.”

GALA’s 2007-08 season features works by and about some of masters of the Spanish language, such as Jorge Luis Borges and Federico García Lorca. The season also embraces Latino authors and performers whose language is forging a new chapter in Latino culture. There are works by spoken word poets and hip-hop performance artists like Chicano-Cubano Paul Flores, Nuyorican La Bruja, and DC’s Quique Aviles, and a new play by Venezuelan Gustavo Ott. The theater will also hold its annual flamenco festival and showcase the work of Mexican composer-poet Agustin Lara.

Some of the performances this year, in Spanish with English subtitles, include “Cita a ciegas” (Blind Date) by Argentinean Mario Diament, directed by José Carrasquillo and starring Hugo Medrano from September 20- October 14, 2007; the U.S. premiere of “Tu ternura Molotov” (Your Molotov Kisses) by Venezuelan Gustavo Ott and directed by Abel López from January 31-February 24, 2008; “Bodas de sangre” (Blood Wedding) by Spaniard Federico García, directed by Hugo Medrano and with guest artist Mel Rocher, April 3-27, 2008; and the world premiere of “Boleros & Blues, The Legacy of Lara,” a musical by Abel López with pianist Mari Paz and mezzo-soprano Anamer Castrello, June 5–29, 2008.

Over the past 15 years GALA and the Washington Performing Arts Society partnered to commission over 20 new works of theater, music, dance and spoken word and presented hundreds of established and emerging artists such as Tito Puente, Guillermo Gómez Peña, and Gilberto Gil.

GALA is a nonprofit, tax-exempt organization supported in part by the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities, the National Endowment for the Arts, the DC Mayor’s Office on Latino Affairs, private foundations, corporations and individuals. GALA is a member of the League of Washington Theaters, the Cultural Alliance of Greater Washington, the Theatre Communication Group, the National Association of Latino Arts and Culture, the National Performance Network, the Association of Performing Arts Presenters, and the Latino Federation of Greater Washington.


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“Hispanic Projections with 2007-08 update” audio recording

Roger Selbert, Ph.D.

Presenter Roger Selbert, Ph.D.

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  • About Latino buying power growth in the future
  • How Latino market growth compares with other markets in the U.S.
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  • If the luxury Latino market is growing 

Stay ahead of your competion with “Hispanic Projections”


Hispanic executive describes her formula for success in faith oriented book

Posted by Elena del Valle on July 20, 2007

Keeping the Faith cover

Keeping the Faith cover

Photo: HarperCollins Publishers

In Keeping the Faith How Applying Spiritual Purpose to Your Work Can Lead to Extraordinary Success (Rayo, $22.95), Ana Mollinedo Mims describes how she arrived in the United States as a Cuban immigrant and eventually thrived in the corporate world. In the book, meant for anyone who has a job or hopes to be employed, she proposes to the reader that each struggle becomes an opportunity to grow spiritually, develop a purpose and achieve professional success. She believes that the answers we seek will reveal themselves more clearly and lead us to satisfaction through a blending of faith and work.

“My book is about developing a relationship with God that will lead to understanding one’s purpose and calling. I rarely talk about where I go to church because what is important is having the relationship not where you go to church. My book is not written from a denominational perspective and applies to everyone and anyone that has or is interested in developing a relationship with God regardless of where they go to church. God is the God of all not just one race or culture and I believe loves us all equally,” said  Mollinedo Mims. “I was recently interviewed by Club 700 Hoy, the Hispanic version of the 700 Club and the response there was awesome. There are not many Hispanics, and specifically female Hispanics for the matter speaking about faith and how it applies to the workplace and to career development. So the response from all has been very rewarding.”

In Keeping the Faith, Mollinedo Mims, chief corporate communication officer, Cable & Wireless, Americas & Caribbean, discusses seven principles, faith, integrity, humility, prayer, forgiveness, stewardship, and legacy. The 256-page hardcover book is divided into three parts: Rebirth, Principles of the Spirit Led Career and On Reflection.

Mollinedo Mims has held executive positions with Fortune 500 companies and non profit organizations in strategic development, communications, media and corporate relations, government and investor relations, and website design. Prior to working with Cable & Wireless, she was global vice president of communications, Community Affairs & Diversity for Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc.


Keeping the Faith cover 

Click here to purchase Keeping the Faith


Scholarship List

Posted by Elena del Valle on February 11, 2006

Following is information on scholarship opportunities available in the U.S. open to or benefiting Hispanic students pursuing careers in marketing, communications, journalism, public relations and related fields.

Harvard Financial Aid Initiave

Harvard President Lawrence H. Summers announced in 2004 a major new initiative designed to encourage talented students from families of low and moderate income to attend Harvard College. The initiative has four major components, including recruitment, admissions, and a summer academic program designed to prepare talented students from financially disadvantaged backgrounds for college. The financial aid component increases aid for students from low and moderate income families. Parents in families with incomes of less than $40,000 will no longer be expected to contribute to the cost of attending Harvard for their children. In addition, Harvard will reduce the contributions expected of families with incomes between $40,000 and $60,000. The initiative, currently benefits more than 1000 families on an annual basis. More information at Harvard.edu

Hispanic Scholarship Fund, HSF

The Hispanic Scholarship Fund, HSF, offers scholarship programs for students at different points in their academic careers. Each HSF-administered scholarship is different, and many have varying requirements. All HSF scholarship applicants must also apply for federal financial aid using the Free Application for Federal Student Aid and if required by their school.
To qualify for an HSF scholarship, applicants must:

  • Be of Hispanic heritage: persons descended from Mexican, Puerto Rican, Cuban,
  • Dominican, Central, South American or other Spanish Cultures
  • Be a U.S. Citizen or legal permanent resident
  • Be enrolled full-time in a degree-seeking program at a U.S. accredited and Title IV-eligible institution in the U.S., Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, or Guam
  • Apply for federal financial aid using the FAFSA
  • Be completing your first undergraduate or graduate degree

General application requirements:

  • A completed application (including essays)
  • Official transcript(s)
  • Recommender Form
  • Copy of Student Aid Report (SAR)
  • Grade Point Average (GPA) Certification Form (high school seniors)
  • Enrollment Verification Form
  • Students must apply to each discrete program at HSF for which they wish to receive consideration

HSF funds are limited for use towards any educational costs included as part of a student’s university-approved budget for education: tuition, fees, books, supplies, room/board, travel, and personal. Scholarship funds used for expenses other than tuition, fees, books, and supplies are taxable. Students may apply to more than one program, including the Gates Millennium Scholars program and programs administered by the Hispanic Scholarship Fund Institute in Washington, D.C. A student may receive only one scholarship award from HSF per academic year. Students are encouraged to apply for non-HSF scholarships.

Successful candidates are selected on the basis of academic achievement, personal strengths, leadership, and financial need. The selection of HSF scholars is assisted by the efforts of the ACT Recognition Program and by regional readers. HSF scholars have achieved success in many fields and often are visible role models in their communities.

The Hispanic Scholarship Fund (HSF) is one of the nation’s leading organizations supporting Hispanic higher education. HSF was founded in 1975 with a vision to strengthen the country by advancing college education among Hispanic Americans-the largest minority segment of the U.S. population. Headquartered in San Francisco, HSF has opened regional offices in Southern California, the Southwest, the Northeast, the Southeast, and the Midwest. In addition, HSF launched the Washington, D.C.-based Hispanic Scholarship Fund Institute to generate public partnerships in support of its work. During its 30-year history, HSF has awarded more than 73,000 scholarships totaling nearly $170 million to Latinos from all 50 states, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands and Guam who have attended more than 1,700 colleges and universities. More information is available at Hispanic Scholarship Fund Selection Committee, One Sansom Street, Suite 1000, San Francisco, CA 94104, telephone 1-877-473-4636, Fax 415-445-9942 and online at HSF.net

¡Adelante!

¡Adelante! Fund Scholars benefit from a $1,500 to $3,000 scholarship, attendance at the annual Leadership Institute and compete for Internships Across America!  Hispanic students must meet the following requirements to qualify for the scholarship:

  • Be a junior at a college or university by Fall 2006
  • Pursue a degree in Business or related fields
  • Have and maintain a GPA of 3.0 or above
  • Be eligible for financial aid from a federal or state-funded program
  • Maintain full-time enrollment status throughout duration of the scholarship term
  • Provide two letters of recommendation which express leadership potential
  • Complete the Student Survey form
  • Submit a resume by email to joguerrero@adelantefund.org
  • Participate in Adelante’s Leadership Institute and possibly participate in a paid internship in summer 2006 in a business or corporation

The ¡Adelante! Fund established a model for investing in Hispanic students through scholarships, internships, and leadership training programs. This distinctive, three-tiered approach fosters the development of well prepared ¡Adelante! scholars.  ¡Adelante! reports that 100 percent of the students who have participated in the scholarship program have earned a Bachelor’s degree or are actively pursuing one. The organization’s mission is to support the success of tomorrow’s leaders through investment in their academic potential. More information is available at ¡Adelante! 8415 Datapoint Drive, Suite 400, San Antonio, TX 78229, Telephone: 1-877-692-1971 (toll free), Fax: 210-692-1951 Email: info@adelantefund.org and online at ¡Adelante!

Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities, HACU

The Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities, HACU, 2006-2007 academic year scholarships list appears below. In order to qualify all scholarship recipients must meet all of the following criteria:
Demonstrate financial need, meet the specified criteria for the scholarship to which they are applying and be attend a HACU-member institution at the time scholarship awards are made.

Scholarships are non-renewable unless otherwise indicated.  Renewable scholarships are subject to funding availability and the student’s continuing eligibility.  Full-time students must be taking at least 12 credit hours per semester or its equivalent for graduate students.

Bureau of Land Management Award                                              $1,000

Full-time undergraduate students at four-year institutions with declared majors in natural resources, or their equivalent majors/curricula, degree program. Students must possess a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.2 and have an interest in natural resources management.

CLASE/Coors Light Academic Success in Education Award              $1,000

Full-time graduate students in any masters degree, J.D., M.D., or Ph.D. program.  Students must possess a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0.

General Motors Engineering Excellence Award              $2,000 (renewable)

Full-time undergraduate or graduate students at four-year institutions with declared majors in an engineering degree program.  Students must possess a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.2. Scholarship is renewable based on availability of funds and student’s continuing eligibility.

Lockheed Martin Scholarship Award                                                   $2,800

Fulltime undergraduate students at four-year institutions with declared majors in electrical engineering, computer science and mechanical engineering.  Student must be interested in Lockheed Martin employment opportunities and possess a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.20.

NASCAR/Wendell Scott Award   $1,500 (undergraduate) $2,000 (graduate)

Undergraduate or graduate students of any major who demonstrate either a recreational or professional interest in the motorsports industry. Undergraduate students must be full-time, able to use the scholarship during their junior or senior year, and possess a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0. Graduate students must be attending school at least on a part-time basis.

Office Depot Scholarship                                                              $1,000

Undergraduate students attending four-year institutions with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 in any the following majors: Business Administration, International Business, Marketing, Merchandising, or Information Technology.

Time Warner Scholarship Award                                  $2,000 (renewable)

Full-time sophomore and junior students at four-year institutions, of any major with an interest in the entertainment, news, media, or telecommunications industries.  Students must possess a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0.  Scholars may be considered for paid summer internships at Time Warner through the Time Warner “STARS” program. Scholarship is renewable based on student’s continuing eligibility.

Wachovia Scholarship Award                                                               $1,000

Full-time undergraduate students attending 2 or 4 year institutions with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 in any of the following majors: Finance, Accounting, or Business Administration.
Wal-Mart Achievers Award                                                                  $1,000

Full-time undergraduate students attending 2 or 4 year institutions in their sophomore or junior year at a U.S. mainland institution. Students must be declared majors in a:  business administration, general management, retail management, marketing or food merchandising – or their equivalent majors/curricula – degree program. Students must possess a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 and preferably, be working while attending school, and have an interest in retail. More information is available at HACU

National Association of Hispanic Journalists, NAHJ

This year NAHJ is awarding $400,000 in scholarships for students who are pursuing careers in English or Spanish-language newspaper, photo, television, radio or online journalism. College-bound high school seniors, community college students, undergraduates at four-year schools and first-year graduate students are eligible for the various NAHJ scholarships. Students do not have to be journalism majors to be eligible for the NAHJ scholarships which range from $1,000 to $10,000.

CNN, Newhouse Newspapers, and Univisión are among the media companies that sponsor scholarships offered by NAHJ. Other contributors include Univisión anchor, syndicated columnist and NAHJ founder María Elena Salinas and Geraldo Rivera, senior correspondent, FOXNews Channel. This year NAHJ is selecting “CNN 25 Scholars” who will receive $300,000 in scholarships to celebrate the network’s 25 anniversary.

Some past NAHJ scholarship recipients include: Miami Herald sports columnist and ESPN Radio contributing commentator Dan LeBatard, Luz Villarreal, associate producer, Dateline NBC Barry Gutierrez, Pulitzer Prize-winning photographer at the Rocky Mountain News in Denver, Eunice Moscoso, national correspondent, Cox Newspapers, Edmund Tijerina, columnist, San Antonio Express-News, Eddy Ramirez, reporter, St. Petersburg Times, and Marcy Valenzuela, anchor, KOVR-TV CBS 13 in Sacramento, California.

In order to be eligible students must plan to attend a community college or university located within the United States or Puerto Rico full-time for the entire academic year. Students who attend or plan to attend colleges or universities outside of the United States or Puerto Rico are not eligible for NAHJ scholarships.

Following is a list of NAHJ scholarships by media category:

TV and Radio Broadcast

NAHJ General Broadcast Scholarship

These scholarships, ranging between $1,000 and $2,000 per student, are awarded to college-bound high school seniors, college undergraduates and graduate students pursuing careers in English or Spanish-language broadcast journalism.

NAHJ Geraldo Rivera Scholarship

Ranging between $1,000 and $5,000 per student, these scholarships are open to college undergraduates and graduate students pursuing careers in English or Spanish-language TV broadcast journalism.

NAHJ Maria Elena Salinas Scholarship Program

Established in 2002, this program awards two $5,000 scholarships to students who demonstrate a strong desire to pursue a career as a Spanish-language broadcast journalist. The scholarship is funded by is Univision network news anchor, syndicated columnist and NAHJ founding member Maria Elena Salinas and the Univision network. This scholarship is awarded to college undergraduate and graduate students. Recipients of the Maria Elena Salinas Scholarship will also have an opportunity to intern with the news division of the Univision network or with an Univision affiliate.

CNN 25 Scholars

Twenty-five high school seniors, freshmen, and sophomores will be selected to be the CNN 25 Scholars in 2006. They will receive scholarships ranging from $3,000 to $5,000 a year for the remainder of their college or university studies. These scholarships are made possible by a contribution from CNN to celebrate the network’s 25th anniversary.

NAHJ Newsroom Bound Program

This $4,000 three-year program offers college freshmen and sophomores a chance to experience many of the opportunities offered by NAHJ that are intended to propel them from the classroom to the newsroom. NAHJ will select students for this program from among its scholarship recipients. The program provides journalism students with training, mentoring and work experience.

Print and Online

NAHJ Print General Scholarships

These scholarships, ranging from $1,000 to $2,000 per student, are awarded to college-bound high school seniors, college undergraduates and graduate students pursuing careers in English or Spanish-language print, photo, or online journalism.

NAHJ Newhouse Scholarship Program

This two-year $10,000 program awards two scholarships to college sophomores pursuing careers as English-language newspaper reporters, editors, photographers or graphic artist/page designers. Since 1994, the Newhouse Foundation has sponsored a two-year scholarship program for print journalism students in their junior year. Applicants must be current college sophomores. Recipients will have an opportunity to intern at a Newhouse newspaper following their junior year. The program provides a stipend to allow the winner of this scholarship to attend the annual NAHJ convention as a student member and work on the convention newspaper, The Latino Reporter.

CNN 25 Scholars

Twenty-five high school seniors, freshmen, and sophomores will be selected to be the CNN 25 Scholars in 2006. They will receive scholarships ranging from $3,000 to $5,000 a year for the remainder of their college or university studies. These scholarships are made possible by a contribution from CNN to celebrate the network’s 25th anniversary.

NAHJ Newsroom Bound Program

This $4,000 three-year program offers college freshmen and sophomores a chance to experience many of the opportunities offered by NAHJ that are intended to propel them from the classroom to the newsroom. NAHJ will select students for this program from among its scholarship recipients. The program provides journalism students with training, mentoring and work experience.

The National Association of Hispanic Journalists is dedicated to the recognition and professional advancement of Hispanics in the news industry. Established in April 1984,  NAHJ is governed by an 18-member board of directors that consists of executive officers and regional directors who represent geographic areas of the United States and the Caribbean. The Association’s national office is located in the National Press Building in Washington, D.C. NAHJ has 2,300 members, including working journalists, journalism students, other media-related professionals and journalism educators. For more information about NAHJ’s scholarships, and to download scholarship applications, visit NAHJ.org or NAHJ scholarships or call NAHJ’s office in Washington, D.C. at (202) 662-7145.

Hispanic College Fund, HCF

The Hispanic College Fund awards scholarships based on merit and financial need. HCF administers multiple scholarship programs including the Sallie Mae Fund’s First in My Family Scholarship Program and the ALPFA Scholarship Program.

The minimum eligibility criteria for HCF scholarship programs are:

  • Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident residing in the United States
  • Must be studying full-time in the United States or Puerto Rico
  • Must have a minimum GPA of a 3.0
  • Must demonstrate financial need

2006 Hispanic College Fund Scholarship Programs

Sallie Mae First in My Family Scholarship

Deadline April 15, 2006

Total Scholarship Funds: $500,000
Individual Awards: $500-$5,000

Eligibility Requirements:

  • Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident residing in the United States
  • Must be an undergraduate student studying full-time in the United States or Puerto Rico
  • Must have a minimum GPA of a 3.0
  • Must demonstrate financial need
  • Must be first in family to attend college

Details at SallieMaefund.org

ALPFA Scholarship

Deadeline: March 31, 2006
Total Scholarship Funds: $150,000
Individual Awards: The majority of scholarships are $1,250 with outstanding students awarded $5,000

Eligibility Requirements:

  • Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident residing in the United States
  • Must be studying full-time in the United States or Puerto Rico
  • Must have a minimum GPA of a 3.0
  • Must demonstrate financial need
  • Must be pursuing an undergraduate or masters degree in accounting, finance, business administration, IT or a related field

Details at Alpfa.org

MasterCard Scholarship

Deadline: April 15, 2006
Scholarship amount: $10,000 scholarship funds for students from select regions pursuing degrees in technology, finance, business administration, or a related field.
Total Scholarship Funds: $50,000
Individual Awards: $10,000

Eligibility Requirements:

  • Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident residing in the United States
  • Must be studying full-time in the United States or Puerto Rico
  • Must have a minimum GPA of a 3.0
  • Must demonstrate financial need
  • Must be from the greater metropolitan areas of New York City, Miami, or St. Louis or from the states of Texas or California
  • Must be pursuing an undergraduate degree intechnology, finance, business administration, or a related field

The Hispanic College Fund is the product of a dedicated group of Hispanic businessmen and women who were inspired to respond to the alarming growth in the number of talented Hispanic students who could not afford a college education. This call to action was precipitated by a compelling letter to the editor published in November 1990, in Hispanic Business magazine in which a student described his disillusionment in seeking financial aid from chief executive officers profiled in the magazine. Several concerned Hispanic CEOs who read the same letter responded by offering to help support the creation of the Hispanic College Fund.

The Hispanic College Fund’s mission is to educate and develop the next generation of Hispanic professionals. Our scholarship programs focus on developing Latino youth who are pursuing undergraduate degrees in business, science, engineering, technology and math. HCF awards merit and need-based scholarships to Latino students and providing them with vision, resources, tools, and mentors so that they can achieve their full potential as a professional and a leader. Since 1993, the Hispanic College Fund has awarded over $6 million in scholarships to more than 2,800 Hispanic students. More information is available at the Hispanic College Fund, 1717 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW Suite 460, Washington, D.C. 20006, telephone 1-800-644-4223, Fax: 202-296-3774 and online at HCF.

Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute, CHCI

Latino students who have a history of performing public service-oriented activities in their communities and who plan to continue contributing in the future may be eligible for the CHCI scholarship awards. There is no GPA or major requirement. Students with excellent leadership potential are encouraged to apply. Recipients will receive scholarships of $2,500 to attend a four-year or graduate-level academic institution; or scholarships of $1,000 to attend a two-year community college.

CHCI will disburse scholarship monies directly to recipients.  In a two-fold effort to monitor the progress of scholarship recipients and promote college retention, total scholarships monies will be equally divided and distributed on a semester/quarterly basis as long as recipients maintain good academic standing (for community college and four-year undergraduate students only; for graduate- and professional-level students, award will be given in one lump sum).  Scholarship awards are to be used for tuition, room and board, textbooks, and other educational expenses associated with college enrollment.

Eligibility criteria: History of consistent active participation in public service-oriented activities; acceptance into an accredited community college, four-year university, or a graduate/professional program; applicants must be enrolled as full-time students; demonstrated financial need; good writing skills; and U.S. citizenship or legal permanent residency.

The Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute (CHCI) was established in 1978 by members of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus as a non-profit, non-partisan educational organization dedicated to developing the next generation of Latino leaders. CHCI’s educational services are designed to provide Latino students with the tools and resources they need to succeed in attaining a higher education. Its leadership development programs seek to help participants search for and understand their identity as professionals, Latinos, and leaders. By bringing together individuals who share a commitment to serve their communities, CHCI endeavors to make its vision of an educated and civic-minded Latino community a reality. Scholarship application information is available at CHCI, 911 Second Street, NE Washington, DC 20002, telephone 1-800-392-3532 or (202) 543-1771, Fax (202) 546-2143 and online at CHCI.

Institute of International Education (IIE)

The Benjamin A. Gillman Scholarship offers a competition for awards for undergraduate study abroad and was established by the International Academic Opportunity Act of 2000. This scholarship provides awards for U.S. undergraduate students who are receiving federal Pell Grant funding at a 2-year or 4-year college or university to participate in study abroad programs worldwide.

Sponsored by the U.S. Department of State Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, this congressionally funded program is administered by the Institute of International Education through its Southern Regional Center in Houston, TX. The Gilman Scholarship Program supports undergraduates who might not otherwise participate due to financial constraints. The program aims to encourage students to choose non-traditional study abroad destinations, especially those outside of Western Europe and Australia.

The Gilman scholarship aims to support students who have been traditionally under-represented in study abroad, including but not limited to, students with high financial need, community college students, students in under-represented fields such as the sciences and engineering, students with diverse ethnic backgrounds, and students with disabilities. The program seeks to assist students from a diverse range and type of public and private institutions from all 50 states.

Award recipients are chosen by a competitive selection process and must use the award to defray eligible study abroad costs. These costs include program tuition, room and board, books, local transportation, insurance and international airfare. Awards of up to $5,000 are made for U.S. citizen undergraduates to study abroad. Award amounts will vary depending on the length of study and student need with the average award being $4,000. Students who are receiving federal Pell Grant funding at 2-year or 4-year undergraduate colleges or universities are eligible to apply. This congressionally funded program is sponsored by the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs of the U.S. Department of State and is administered by the Institute of International Education, Southern Regional Center in Houston, Texas.

Deadline April 4, 2006

Eligibility

The Gilman Scholarship is open to all US citizen undergraduates, in good academic standing, who meet the criteria listed below.

  • Must be receiving a Federal Pell Grant or provide proof that he/she will be receiving a Pell Grant at the time of application or during the term of their study abroad.
  • Apply to or accepted into a study abroad program eligible for credit by the student’s accredited institution of higher education in the U.S.
  • Studying abroad for at least 4 weeks in one country.  Programs going to more than one country are eligible if the student will be studying one country for at least four weeks.
  • Studying abroad in any country except Cuba or a country on the State Department’s current Travel Warning list.
  • Studying in the fall, spring, or academic year terms including winter inter-sessions.  Summer only programs are not eligible.

Interested students should consult the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) section of the organization’s website or contact gilman@iie.org .

The Gilman scholarship aims to support a diverse range of students who have been traditionally under-represented in study abroad, including but not limited to:

  • students with high financial need
  • students interested in studying in diverse countries, especially those outside of Western Europe and Australia
  • students attending community colleges
  • students with diverse ethnic backgrounds
  • students from diverse range of institutions including two-year, four-year, public, private, minority-serving etc.
  • students with disabilities

The program strongly encourages students to choose non-traditional study abroad destinations, especially those outside of Western Europe and Australia. The program strongly encourages students from community colleges to apply. The program encourages students to study abroad for longer periods of time though short-term programs of at least four weeks are eligible. The program also seeks to serve students from all 50 states, Puerto Rico and Washington, DC. The program aims to encourage students in non-traditional fields of study to study abroad such as the sciences and engineering – though all disciplines are eligible.

The program seeks to assist students from a diverse range and type of colleges and universities including, but not limited to: two and four-year public and private colleges, tribal colleges, HBCU’s and Hispanic-serving institutions from all 50 states. The program aims to open doors for students who have not previously studied abroad for undergraduate academic credit. All recipients are required to carry out a follow-on project that promotes the Gilman Scholarship at the students’ home institution or community. The follow-on project proposal, statement of purpose essay, and academic progress are criteria are closely considered during the selection process.

The selection criteria for the Gilman Scholarship Program are based upon the Gilman Scholarship Program goals that may differ from other scholarship programs. Meeting one or more of the above criteria does not guarantee acceptance. Award recipients are selected using the following criteria:

  • Diversity of Applicant
  • Statement of Purpose Essay
  • Follow-on Project Proposal Essay
  • Academic Progress and Performance
  • Fields of Study
  • Country of Destination
  • U.S. Institution and State Distribution
  • Length of Study
  • Lack Previous Undergraduate Study Abroad Experience

More information is available from Institute of Internatinal Education, Southern U.S. Regional Office, 520 Post Oak Blvd., Suite 740, Houston, TX 77027 or online at IIE.org

League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) National Scholarship Fund

The LULAC National Scholarship Fund (LNSF)  is run completely at the local, grassroots level. The LNSF is coordinated nationally by LNESC and provides more than $750,000.00 in scholarships to all levels of degree seeking students each year.

Established in 1975 through the collaborative efforts of LNESC, LULAC Councils and corporate partners, the LNSF was created to recognize and award the academic achievements of Hispanic students by providing direct financial support to students pursuing a post secondary degree. Over the past 30 years, the LNSF has awarded 14 million dollars in scholarships to over 25,000 students.

Contributions to the LNSF by corporations are matched by funds raised locally through the network of participating LULAC councils.  Corporate dollars are matched at the rate of $1:$1.40 or 140 percent.

LULAC – GE Scholarship

This program is run solely through the LNESC national office.  Qualified applicants are chosen through a very rigorous selection process by members of LNESC’s scholarship committee.  Only those preparing to enter their sophomore year at an accredited institution and having declared majors in Business or Engineering are eligible.

The organization’s mission: “In an effort to create lifelong learners and leaders within the Hispanic community, LNESC strives to provide the highest quality educational opportunities possible.  We seek to develop America’s future workforce by effectively preparing young people for the jobs of the new economy.”

More information is available at League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) National Scholarship Fund, 2000 L. Street, N.W., Suite 610, Washington, DC 20036, telephone 202-835-9646, fax 202-835-9685 and online at LNESC.org

BECA Foundation

To be eligible for the General Scholarship Fund an applicant must be a 2006, San Diego County high school graduate who is entering college in the fall, 2006. Scholarships range between $500 and $1000 and the deadline to apply is March 2, 2006. Eligible applicants may pursue their education anywhere in the United States, and pursue any profession.

With the cooperation of San Diego County school districts, the community and the BECA website, the Scholarship Committee identifies candidates for scholarship and award considerations. Applications are distributed in January and may be accessed via the Web  or by contacting The BECA Foundation office.

The Committee will screen and evaluate all the applications. The selection process is based on a combination of factors. For example, individual’s need and merit, their GPA and their involvement in the community. Final candidates will be asked to appear for a formal interview. Recipients will be chosen and notified.

The BECA Foundation, INC., a non-profit corporation, was formed to provide scholarship funds to promising students of Hispanic descent. The BECA Foundation, Inc. was formed by a group of North San Diego County residents to provide scholarship funds to promising students of Hispanic descent. The BECA Foundation’s purpose is to seek out these promising students and provide them with the necessary financial assistance, moral support and guidance to complete their education at an accredited four-year institution, thereby promoting higher educational and leadership standards within the Hispanic community.

A Scholarship Committee, through the cooperation of school district personnel in San Diego County, will identify student candidates for consideration and will submit their recommendations to the Board of Directors for final approval. A personal record of each scholarship recipient will be maintained as to progress and grade achievement throughout his or her educational period. Graduating students will be honored at the annual BECA Dinner-Awards Banquet.

The BECA Foundation is a non-profit organization and will raise funds primarily through an annual banquet, periodic luncheon meetings and direct mail solicitations. More information is available at the BECA Foundation, 830 E. Grand Ave., Suite B, Escondido, CA 92025, telephone (760) 741-8246, fax (760) 741-8716, E-mail address garciaac@owl.csusm.edu and online at BECA.org

Florida State University College of Communication

The College of Communication scholarships for 2006 will be awarded to students majoring in Communication or Communication Disorders meeting the criteria established for each scholarship. Scholarship awards range between $500 and $5,000. Although students may receive only one College scholarship per year, they may apply for multiple scholarships. Applicants may be asked to appear for an interview. Awards are limited to full-time students who are Communication majors. Applications will be accepted between January 30 and Wednesday, February 15, 2006. Application packages are due in the Department of Communication (University Center Building C Suite 3100), or be post-marked, by 5:00 pm February 15, 2006. Applications received or postmarked after the deadline will not be considered.

Successful applicants will be required to attend the College of Communication Awards Day Ceremony, at 3:30 pm on Thursday, April 6, 2006. It is university policy that all scholarship recipients must prepare a letter of appreciation to the scholarship donors (copied to the department) before a check will be disbursed.

In order to be considered as an applicant, students must fill-in the application form and prepare and return the following materials to:

Scholarship Committee
Attn: Ms. Sharon Lamb
Department of Communication
University Center Building C, Suite 3100
Florida State University
Tallahassee, FL 32306-2664

Only one application package needs to be completed and submitted. Each application package must include:

  • completed student information form
  • an official or unofficial copy of the student’s transcript
  • completed scholarship list
  • a two page resume
  • three reference letters (if required)
  • a written statement not exceeding two pages double-spaced that outlines the student’s program goals and addresses the criteria for the scholarships for which he or she is applying
  • a portfolio or video as applicable

More information is available online at FSU.edu

St Thomas University Communication Arts

The St. Thomas University Communication Department offers a one time $2,000 award for new students.

Criteria for eligibility:

  • Undergrad or grad GPA of 3.0
  • Excellent bilingual communication skills evidenced by two essays, one in English and one in Spanish, on “The significance of the Hispanic Market in today’s media world.”
  • Interview with the department Chair and/or Graduate Coordinator
  • Be a new incoming student
  • Be accepted into the program
  • Complete scholarship application submitted by 2/25/06

To apply for a Communication Arts Scholarship, complete the following steps

Be accepted for graduate admission to St. Thomas University.  Conditional acceptance is sufficient for application. However, a Communication Arts Scholarship can only be awarded to students fully admitted to a graduate program.

Submit a completed Communication Arts Scholarship application to the Admissions Office by the deadline of February 25, 2006.

Following is the Communication Arts Scholarship Application.

Date ______________________ (Please Print)
Applying for Semester/Year _______________________________________
Degree Program and Specialization_________________________________
Anticipated Graduation Date _______________________
Name  __________________________________________________________
Permanent Address_______________________________________________
City_____________________________State__________________________
Telephone ______________________ Work___________________________
Email __________________________ Fax____________________________
Social Security No ______________________ Birth Date _______________

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND
College Name/Address               Dates Attended                 Major/Degree Date

1. ____________________________________________________________
2. ______________________________________________________________
3.  _____________________________________________________________

Please list two references with phone numbers (At least one should be someone who is able to discuss your potential in the field of Hispanic Media).

1. ____________________________________________________________
2. ______________________________________________________________

List skills, interests, and personal characteristics that you can bring to this assignment

1.  ______________________________________________________________
2. ______________________________________________________________
3. ______________________________________________________________

Please attach a résumé detailing your employment history, academic achievements, memberships in professional organizations, and current certifications.

Complete two one page essays, one in English and one in Spanish addressing the topic of “The significance of the Hispanic Market in Today’s Media World.” You may want to link the topic to your educational and career goals.  More information is available at St. Thomas University, 16401 NW 37 Avenue, Miami Gardens, FL 33054 and online at St. Thomas.edu

National Hispanic Foundation for the Arts, NHFA

The National Hispanic Foundation for the Arts, NHFA, offers scholarship opportunities for Hispanic youth in the media, arts, and communications industry. To date the foundation has awarded $600,000 in scholarships to Latino students. Though very successful, this program is only able to reach a small percentage of its potential targets due to resource limitations.

Currently, NHFA offers graduate school scholarships to Latino students attending the following University programs: Columbia University School of the Arts, Harvard University Lampoon magazine comedy writers, New York University Tisch School of the Arts, Northwestern University Drama Department, University of California at Los Angeles, University of Southern California, University of Texas at Austin Communications School, and Yale University Drama Department.

Graduate students in the following fields, among others, are eligible to compete:
Drama/Theater, Set Design/Costume Design, Lighting Design, Film, Broadcast Communications, Entertainment Law, Business Administration (with an emphasis on entertainment management).

To be eligible students must:

  • be accepted or enrolled full-time at the previously mentioned Universities pursuing a graduate degree in an eligible field
  • must be in good academic standing with a Grade Point Average of 3.0 or better on a 4.0 scale
  • provide evidence of financial need
  • be a U.S. citizen or Permanent Resident
  • be of Hispanic descent (one parent must be fully Hispanic or both parents must be half Hispanic). Special consideration is given to students who can demonstrate special talent in their chosen areas related to the entertainment industry.

The National Hispanic Foundation for the Arts was created in 1997 to advance the presence of Latinos in the media, telecommunications and entertainment industries. The Foundation has concentrated in increasing access for Hispanic artists and professionals while fostering the emergence of new Hispanic talent.

Paradoxically, while the entertainment industry and its advertisers tap into the Hispanic community’s resources, programming still falls short of the need to expand and present U.S. Latinos in a more modern and contemporary manner. This omission deprives an entire community of a source of cultural pride and reality and the country-at-large of a true picture of the American mosaic.

The Foundation’s mission has two principal goals:to offer graduate scholarships to Latino students at prominent colleges and universities; and to expand career opportunities for existing talent in all aspects of entertainment and the performing arts. The Foundation is the initiative of actors Jimmy Smits, Sonia Braga, Esai Morales and Washington, D.C. attorney Felix Sanchez. More information is available online at HispanicArts.org

Hispanic Scholarship Consortium, HSC

The Hispanic Scholarship Consortium, HSC, is a collective of grassroots organizations providing resources for financial and mentoring opportunities to help Hispanic students get into and succeed in college. HSC’s member organizations offer Hispanic scholars the chance to pursue their dreams by first attaining a college education. The application deadline is March 31, 2006. More information is available at Hispanic Scholarship Consortium, 8609 Cross Park Drive, Austin, TX, 78749, (512) 615-2294, scholarship@cthsc.org and online at HSC.org