Amsterdam High School hosted its first annual Hispanic Leadership Summit on Nov. 22, an event created to inspire and empower students through the experiences of influential Hispanic leaders in the community. The summit featured a distinguished panel of five guests who shared their personal stories, career paths and advice for future leaders.
Panelists included Alex Torres, musician and founder of Alex Torres and His Latin Orchestra; Shayra Silva, officer with the Amsterdam Police Department; Gabriella A. Romero, member of the New York State Assembly; Robin Vasquez, owner of PlayDead Global; and Stephanie Goris, dispatcher with the Amsterdam Police Department. Each leader offered valuable insight on navigating challenges, celebrating cultural identity and building meaningful careers rooted in service and passion.
Students engaged in a panel-style conversation, asking questions and hearing directly from the speakers about perseverance, leadership development and giving back to one’s community. School officials praised the summit as an important opportunity to highlight Hispanic excellence and representation within leadership programming at Amsterdam High School.
The district plans to continue the Hispanic Leadership Summit as an annual tradition that uplifts student voices, strengthens cultural pride and connects students with positive role models who reflect the diversity of the Greater Amsterdam School District community.