Elsie Vargas

PRESIDENT - L.A.C. Latin American Council - Affinity Group

Centennial High School - Ellicott City, MD - (09/2016-06/2021)

• Coordinated diversity events to help raise awareness of Latin American culture, while supporting teacher morale and pleasant work environments amongst staff members.
• Worked closely with the school Principal to ensure equity of our Hispanic students and their role in our community.
• Organized guest speakers and field trips to expose our students to local opportunities to enhance their knowledge and network.
• Led 25 volunteers and coordinated fundraising events to fund scholarships for our Hispanic students transition to college.
• Encouraged parents and families to be involved in their child's academics by providing resources to guide them appropriately.
• Collaborated with the School Principal and leadership team to facilitate learning curriculum and instructional transformation that advanced diversity and inclusion.
• Facilitated events and advised on school matters that assisted with the development and training of staff that promoted diversity awareness and advocacy for students of color.

PROGRAM CHAIR - P.C.B.S. Parent Council for Black Students - Affinity Group

Centennial High School - Ellicott City, MD - (09/16-06/2021)

• Led 17 volunteers and coordinated events that supported both students and staff. Also raised money to fund our annual "Book Scholarship" for students transitioning to college.
• Managed events to raise awareness of our African American student demographic and promote pride within the school.
• Used inclusive leadership to encourage parents and families to volunteer in events that would enhance their child's academic and overall growth.
• Worked closely with the Parent Teacher Student Association (P.T.S.A) and school Principal to support our African American students and their role in our community.
• Consulted local leadership to advance diversity and equity within the school and community to promote an inclusive climate for students of color.

A dedicated professional committed to public service by demonstrating inclusive leadership, empowering staff and ensuring equity within any organization. Sophisticated in communicating and collaborating effectively by utilizing excellent interpersonal skills, high-level emotional intelligence and solid expertise in employee relations to build a diverse community and cultivate growth mindsets in an effort to enhance civil rights.