Erin Goodman '02
President
I became interested in Latin America after living in Rancagua, Chile as an exchange student while in high school. Since returning to the US, I have tried to raise interest in this part of the world. For me, cultural awareness is one of the most important characteristics to have today. I hope to help raise interest, awareness and cross-cultural understanding.
Josie Horne '03
Vice President
Though I am fascinated with Latin American culture and always looking for ways to involve myself in whatever is going on around me, the catalyst to my joining the Latin American Concerns Club here at Wellesley College occurred over the summer. During a summer school class my professor showed a short clip of an interview with the people of a Zapatistan village. While she stood at the front of the room, waiting to stop the tape, she began to cry. It was through tears of anguish that she explained that she was too old. It was up to us, she said. We had to change this and keep it from happening elsewhere. I figured the Latin American Concerns Club might be a good place to start at least becoming aware of what needs to be done.
Jessica Durrum '00
Secretary
As a Spanish major and History major with a concentration in the 20th century, I am very interested in the social, political and economic histories which have made each country in Latin America what it is today. Learning can be frustrating, however, when I feel so distanced from and powerless over the many different situations. Latin American Concerns provides both a pool from which to learn and an outlet through which to contribute.
Katrina Weber '02
Treasurer
Hi! My name is Katrina Weber and I am a 20 year old sophmore at Wellesley College where I am planning to major in Psychology and Peace and Justice Studies. My interest in these areas stems from the same values/principles as my interest in Latin America and Latino communities in America; the economic/social inequality that exists nationally and internationally must be addressed. While I know that our actions are small I also know that every journey begins with one step. My excitement about social change is made all the more powerful with my love of the culture, the language, the music, the food, and of course, the people.
Aimee Sostowski '01
Outreach Coordinator
Through personal and academic experiences I have come to appreciate the diversity and complexity of Latin America. My interest in the region began at Wellesley when I started to learn Spanish and then developed after meeting people from Latin America and finally traveling to Costa Rica and Mexico. While I am interested in issues of economic and political development in Latin America, I also like learning about the culture (music, literature, art and food) and history. I think that Latin American Concerns at Wellesley is a great opportunity for students to share their experiences and knowledge, while, at the same time, learning more by through holding lectures, attending cultural events and get involved in the community.