On Thursday, March 28, Hostos Development Manager Idelsa Méndez of the Division of Institutional Advancement was recognized by the New York City Hispanic Chamber of Commerce at its 2019 Women in Business Luncheon.

Held aboard the Bateaux New York, the annual luncheon saluted exceptional Hispanic women who have proven themselves in their respective fields, worked diligently to ascend the corporate ladder and demonstrated social responsibility by giving back to their communities.

“I am profoundly grateful and honored to have been recognized at 2019 Women in Business Award Luncheon alongside some of the most exceptional Latinas,” said Méndez.

Idelsa MendezDuring her speech, Méndez reflected on the event’s theme—power strides and breakthroughs—and how it related to her personal and professional journey, so far. The Dominican-born mother of three and Hostos alumna said she’s faced some difficult times and experienced a lot of fear—of learning English, navigating the education system in the U.S., and more. However, she persevered and excelled, going as far as to earn her master’s degree in public administration from John Jay College of Criminal Justice. Méndez credited her children, mentors, and experiences learning and working at the College with helping her succeed and pay it forward to current and future Hostos students.

The Chamber also honored Dr. Lissette García, Senior VP & Chief Operating Officer at the Hispanic Association on Corporate Responsibility (HACR); Wendy García, Chief Diversity Officer at the Office of NYC Comptroller Scott Stringer; Teresa González, Principal at DalyGonzalez; Grace Matos, Latino Market Manager at New York Life Insurance Company; and Dyanne M. Rosado, Global Director at Talent & Culture Design, Nasdaq.