Latino Conference Focusing on Wyoming Students April 19-20

April 5, 2007 -- Scholars, educators and community activists will lead a free public discussion in Laramie April 19-20, focusing on meeting the needs of Wyoming's Latino students.

Nationally- and regionally-known presenters will share research and lessons learned from the field during "Latinos in the Diaspora: Education in Rural Settings."

"The national speakers provide us an opportunity to understand how Wyoming issues relate to what is happening in the Latino community nationwide," says Francisco Rios, University of Wyoming professor of educational studies. "The regional speakers will help us understand some of the more specific challenges that Latinos face."

The program is available to 75 participants, meals included. To register e-mail susana@uwyo.edu or for more information about the event, contact Rios at (307) 766-4055 or frios@uwyo.edu.

Leonard Valverde, executive director of Arizona State University's Hispanic Border Leadership Institute, will discuss "The Education of Latinos: No Matter Where They Reside, Their Education Must be Redefined." His talk is part of the conference's opening address Thursday, April 19, at 6:30 p.m. at The Library restauran. Claudia Peralta Nash of Boise State University will provide a general overview of rural Latino education.

"The speakers' insights will provide a foundation for a more focused discussion on the issues facing Wyoming students and educators," Rios says. "The primary focus really is what is going on here in the state of Wyoming -- how can we better serve these student populations."

More presentations and discussions will be at the Ramada Center Hotel, 2313 Soldier Springs Road, beginning at 8 a.m. Friday, April 20. Among other regional speakers is Leticia Alvarez, UW Department of Educational Studies post-doctoral research associate. A panel comprised of UW students, educators, community activists and parents will discuss specific ways to implement what participants have learned in Wyoming, says Rios.

A collaborative of UW and community groups interested in the education of Latino students hosts the public event, with support from a USA Funds grant. Among the sponsors are UW Chicano Studies Program, Department of Educational Studies, UW Hispanic Student Programs and La Radio Montanesa (KOCA 93.5 FM).

Posted on Thursday, April 05, 2007

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