The Maryland Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (MDHCC) in Conjunction with Education Based Latino Outreach (EBLO) celebrated the creation of a new academy to promote the discovery of science and math among middle and high school students. The Dr. Eduardo Rodriguez Science & Robotics Academy was announced last night in Baltimore City at the “Celebrating Hispanic Success” reception, hosted by the Maryland Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.
The Dr. Eduardo Rodriguez Science & Robotics Academy at EBLO will develop a curriculum using Lego Robotics and other tools to encourage math and science and help students foster the pursuit of medical education. Dr. Rodriguez was present to celebrate the opening of the Academy and reflect on the role of education in his journey to becoming the lead surgeon behind the world’s most extensive full face transplant to date, completed on March 20, 2012 at theUniversityofMaryland.
Congressman Elijah E. Cummings and Senator Victor Ramirez, the first Hispanic elected to public office in Maryland addressed students present at the reception. Congressman Elijah Cummings raised the roof and brought a tear to many in the audience’s eye as he recounted his own experience with using education to move forward in life.
Several prominent members of the Hispanic Business community as well as dignitaries were in attendance including Lt. Governor Anthony Brown, Monyka Berrocosa (CCO & Founder of MyCity4Her Media and also a Chamber Board member), Maria Martinez (CEO of WEB, Inc & Founder of Respira Medical), Rick Martinez (President/CEO of PEC), Veronica Cool (Chairwoman of the Maryland Hispanic Chamber of Commerce & Vice President with Wells Fargo), Gilberto de Jesus (Trustee of University of Maryland Medical Center & Chamber Board Member), Beverlee Barthel (President of Legacy by Beverlee Photography), Yolanda Martinez (Anchor Maryland Public Television) and of course Dr. Eduardo D. Rodriguez, M.D., D.D.S. whose groundbreaking full facial transplant and life’s work was being honored with the Chamber’s unique “Manos que cambian el Mundo” award. An award designed to recognize accomplished, visionary members of the Hispanic community to act as models for the next generation of Hispanic leaders.
“The MDHCC is proud to have spearheaded the creation of an Academy that establishes and leaves a lasting legacy in the name of Dr. Eduardo Rodriguez for Hispanic youths and others from Baltimore and ultimately Maryland. As the program expands, our students will have access to latest high-tech and innovative learning tools,” said Veronica Cool, Chairwoman of the Maryland Hispanic Chamber. “The Chamber is committed to raising the next generation of entrepreneurs and scientists, and we are grateful for the foresight and generous contribution of the University of Maryland Medical Systemthat made the Academy possible.” “EBLO has served as an educational bridge for Latino youth and others for three decades,” says Miguel C. Vicente, executive director of EBLO. “The addition of the Dr. Eduardo Rodriguez Science & Robotics Academy will provide many opportunities for our students as they transition to new lives in theU.S.and acquire math and science skills that will help them become leaders of tomorrow.”
EBLO works to improve the lives of Hispanic children and families through education and cultural activities such as after school programs,SaturdaySchool, adult English competency training and high school leadership classes. Initial funding for the Dr. Eduardo Rodriguez Science & Robotics Academy was provided by the University of Maryland Medical System. TheUniversityofMaryland Medical Systemis committed to the educational opportunities the Academy will provide to help foster scientific discovery and nurture the next generation of world-class Hispanic leaders. Companies interested in supporting the Academy should contact Miguel C. Vicente, Executive Director at 410-563-3160 or director@eblo.org.