Hostos Community College Development Officer Idelsa Mendez Honored with Award at ‘Duarte Honors: Reconociendo Los Nuestros’

 
On Wednesday, February 26, 2025, Idelsa Méndez, the dedicated Development Officer at Hostos Community College and proud alumna, received a prestigious recognition at the "Duarte Honors: Reconociendo Los Nuestros." Named after the founder of the Dominican Republic, Juan Pablo Duarte, who led the fight for the country’s independence, the award is presented by the Dominican-American Network of Young Professionals (DANYP), a Hands On New York, Inc. initiative. This much-anticipated annual event commemorates Dominican heritage and celebrates the remarkable accomplishments of Dominican professionals in their respective fields and communities.  
In a moment filled with pride, Méndez was honored with an award presented by City Councilman Rafael Salamanca, Jr. The organizers expressed the significance of her achievement: "This recognition is a testament to your hard work, dedication, and the incredible impact you've made in your field and community."
   
Méndez shared she was “deeply honored” to receive the recognition. “This moment is not just about me — it’s about the countless students, families, and changemakers who believe in the power of education to transform lives,” she said in a statement. “As a proud advocate for educational equity, I see firsthand how access to quality education opens doors, fuels dreams, and strengthens our communities. For the Dominican community in the South Bronx, education is not just an opportunity, it is a necessity. It is the key to breaking cycles of inequality and building a future where every child, regardless of background, can thrive.”
 
Mendez continued: “This recognition is a reminder that our work is far from over. I remain committed to ensuring that our students receive the resources, mentorship, and opportunities they deserve. Because when one of us rises, we all rise.”  
She also expressed her gratitude to Haile Rivera, Hostos Class of 2003, founder of the Dominican American Network of Young Professionals, “for this honor and for recognizing the efforts of the Dominican community” and to Hostos Community College “for its tireless work in making education accessible to our community.” Additionally, she thanked councilman, Rafael Salamanca, Jr., and everyone who stands with her in the fight for equity.
 
Idelsa Méndez is a true beacon of hope in the Bronx, tirelessly championing the needs of Hostos students while fostering robust relationships with donors and uplifting the profile of her cherished alma mater. During the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, her unwavering commitment shone brightly as she collaborated with Mott Haven Bar and Grill and World Central Kitchen to combat the growing food insecurity faced by students. The initiative, which began with Hostos, soon expanded to serve all Bronx CUNY students, a testament to her vision and compassion.
 
“Idelsa is an invaluable member of the Institutional Advancement team at Hostos. With her broad contacts, deep roots in the community, and passionate advocacy for the work of the College and the needs of our students, she has become a vital engine for our fund-raising activities,” said Colette Atkins, Vice President of Hostos’ Division for Institutional Advancement. “We are all very proud of her for this well-deserved award.”
 
In recognition of her remarkable impact on the community, Mendez was previously honored with the New York Yankees Community Achievement Award in October 2020, celebrating her spirit of service and dedication. At Hostos and in the Bronx, Méndez inspires pride and is a shining example of how one person can positively impact the communities they cherish so deeply.