HHF’s Innovation and Technology Manager at 2017 NCLR Conference

HHF’s Technology and Innovation Manager, Alberto Avalos spoke at the 2017 National Council of La Raza (NCLR) Annual Conference, the nation’s largest gathering of Latino changemakers, elected officials, business leaders, journalists, entertainers and more. This year’s theme was Nuestro Movimiento: Our American Journey, and Alberto spoke on the panel, The Future of Science is Now: Fostering and Developing STEM Talent in Latino Youth.

Alberto was invited to speak on the improvements the community has made in innovation, technology, and STEM education in specific to HHF’s tech initiative, Code as a Second Language (CSL).

“Being part of the panel was an enriching experience. Participating alongside representatives from both the public and private sector led to a meaningful discussion around creating and sustaining culturally competent programs that effectively tap into our Latino/a youth’s talent,” said Alberto.

CSL is a national initiative that works to introduce youth to computer programming and making technical training and careers accessible to women and underrepresented communities. The CSL model fosters a network of Latino Software Engineers and Latino leaders!

NCLR also announced the rebrand of the organization this past weekend at the annual conference. President and CEO of NCLR, Janet Murguia, announced on Twitter today that NCLR will now have the name UnidosUS. “Unidos means United. It is our belief that in unity there is strength and in strength, there is power,” said Janet.

Stay tuned to learn more about our CSL tech leaders within the Latinos on Fast Track (LOFT) network in the weeks to come. Learn how you can get involved with our CSL program as a student, partner or sponsor here!