2016 PROGRAM REPORT
TABLE OF CONTENTSEXECUTIVE SUMMARY PARK LOCATIONS NUMBER OF PARTICIPANTS PARTICIPANT DEMOGRAPHICS ACKNOWLEDGMENTS CONTACT INFORMATION PARTNERSHIP ABOUT THE PARTNERS STATEMENT OF PURPOSE PROGRAM GOALS & OBJECTIVES FUNDING AMOUNTS PROGRAM SUCCESSES LHIP WEBINARS PRE-INTERNSHIP SURVEY RESULTSPOST-INTERNSHIP SURVEY RESULTS LIST OF INTERN PROJECTS PROJECT HIGHLIGHTS INTERN & STAFF QUOTES NEWS & VIDEOS CONCLUSIONAPPENDIX: INTERN BIOS 2LATINO HERITAGE INTERNSHIP PROGRAM2016 PROGRAM REPORT334589101112121213151719242933343536
EXECUTIVE SUMMARYThe Latino Heritage Internship Program (LHIP) provides undergraduate/graduate students and recent graduates 18-35 years old that are typically underrepresented in various NPS career elds with meaningful hands-on work experi-ence in the National Park Service. The program is administered by the NPS Youth Programs Division in collaboration with Environment for the Americas and Hispanic Access Foundation.Participants are exposed to the disciplines of cultural/natural resource management, interpretation and outreach through a variety of dierent internship projects spread across a plethora of academic elds including but not lim-ited to: architecture, archeology, communications, community/cultural studies, environmental sustainability, educa-tion, graphic design, history, historic preservation, landscape preservation, and urban planning. Internships may include cultural/historic preservation research, communications, community outreach, education interpretation, and GIS and other technologies. Multidisciplinary projects, or those that cross program areas are common. For the FY 2016 there were 49 internships funded at 46 National Park Sites.PARK LOCATIONS 3LATINO HERITAGE INTERNSHIP PROGRAMDistribution of Internships Across NPS Regions2016 PROGRAM REPORT
NUMBER OF PARTICIPANTS4LATINO HERITAGE INTERNSHIP PROGRAMNumber of Participants Per RegionREGION IntermountainPacic West Southeast NortheastWashington Oce MidwestNational CapitalTOTAL # OF PARTICIPANTS15107644349TOTALPARK LOCATIONSCalifornia FloridaArizonaColoradoDistrict of ColumbiaMassachusettsNew MexicoTexasKansas MarylandNew York # OF PARTICIPANTS65444333222PARK LOCATIONSIdahoNebraskaNevadaOregonPennsylvaniaPuerto RicoSouth DakotaTennesseeVirginiaWashingtonWyoming# OF PARTICIPANTS11111111111Number of Participants Per State492016 PROGRAM REPORT
PARTICIPANT DEMOGRAPHICS5LATINO HERITAGE INTERNSHIP PROGRAM2016 PROGRAM REPORTGender AgeEthnicityEducation Major Fields of Study4%2%4%
6LATINO HERITAGE INTERNSHIP PROGRAM2016 PROGRAM REPORTNumber of Participants by SchoolSCHOOL REPRESENTEDCalifornia State UniversityCalifornia Polytech PomonaCalifornia State University, MonterreyNew Mexico State UniversityTexas State University, San MarcosUniversity of California, RiversideUniversity of New MexicoUniversity of Puerto RicoBowdoin CollegeCalifornia State University, FresnoColorado State UniversityCooperstown Graduate ProgramDuke UniversityFort Lewis CollegeGeorge Washington UniversityHumboldt State UniversityJames Madison UniversityLanet CollegeLesley UniversityNorthern Illinois UniversityOberlin CollegePolytechnic University of Puerto RicoRoger Williams UniversitySt. Joseph’s CollegeTulane UniversityUniversity of Arizona, TucsonUniversity of California, BerkeleyUniversity of California, Los AngelesUniversity of California, NorthridgeUniversity of California, Santa BarbaraUniversity of Central FloridaUniversity of MiamiUniversity of NebraskaUniversity of North Carolina, Chapel HillUniversity of Texas, San AntonioUniversity of VirginiaWestern New Mexico UniversityWhittier CollegeYale UniversityTotal%8.20%4.08%4.08%4.08%4.08%4.08%4.08%4.08%2.04%2.04%2.04%2.04%2.04%2.04%2.04%2.04%2.04%2.04%2.04%2.04%2.04%2.04%2.04%2.04%2.04%2.04%2.04%2.04%2.04%2.04%2.04%2.04%2.04%2.04%2.04%2.04%2.04%2.04%2.04%100.00%# OF PARTICIPANTS42222222111111111111111111111111111111149
7LATINO HERITAGE INTERNSHIP PROGRAM2016 PROGRAM REPORTNumber of Participants Per ParkPARKGrand Canyon National ParkCoronado National MonumentWashington Support Oce Archaeology ProgramMaritime National Historic Park Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area Channel Islands National ParkLassen Volcanic National ParkSanta Monica National Recreation AreaFort Point National Historical SiteSequoia and Kings Canyon National ParksNPS - Intermountain Regional OceColorado National MonumentBlack Canyon of the Gunnison National ParkHistoric American Buildings SurveyHistoric American Landscapes SurveyWashington Support Oce, Oce of CommunicationsCentennial OceBiscayne National Park - Underwater ArcheologyBiscayne National Park - Community OutreachEverglades and Dry Tortugas National ParksEverglades National Park - Education and InterpretationTimucuan Ecological and Historical PreserveCraters of the Moon National Monument & PreserveBrown v. Board of Education National Historical SiteFort Larned National Historical ParkLowell National Historical ParkOlmsted Center for Landscape PreservationBoston National Historical ParkChesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical ParkHomestead National Monument of AmericaNational Trails Intermountain RegionNPS - National Trails SystemPecos National Historical ParkLake Mead National Recreation AreaFire Island National SeashoreWomen’s Rights National Historical ParkLewis and Clark National Historical ParkIndependence Hall National Historical ParkSan Juan National Historic SiteMount Rushmore National Memorial’s Multi-Park Resource RepositoryGreat Smokey Mountains National ParkChamizal National MemorialSan Antonio Missions National Historical ParkGuadalupe Mountains National ParkGeorge Washington Memorial ParkwaySan Juan Island National Historical Park Grand Teton National ParkTotalSTATEAZAZAZCACACACACA CA COCOCODCDCDCDCFLFLFLFLFLIDKSKSMAMAMAMDNENMNMNMNVNYNYORPAPRSDTNTXTXTXVAWAWYLOCATIONGrand CanyonHerefordTucsonSan FranciscoSanta MonicaMineralLos AngelesSan FranciscoVisaliaDenverFruitaGunnisonWashingtonWashingtonWashingtonWashingtonHomesteadHomesteadMiamiMiamiJacksonvilleArcoTopekaLarnedLowellBostonBostonPotomacBeatriceSanta FeSanta FeSanta FeLas VegasFire IslandSenecaAstoriaPhiladelphiaSan JuanKeystoneGatlinburgEl PasoSan AntonioSalt FlatsArlingtonSan Juan IslandMoose# OF PARTICIPANTS211111111211111111111111111211111111111111111149
ACKNOWLEDGMENTSAs we conclude another thrilling summer — and reect on all the lessons learned from our wonderful experiences — we would like to take the opportunity to thank everyone who has contributed to the success and sustainability of LHIP. We want to give a heartwarming gracias to our NPS Youth Programs partners: Madam Secretary of Interior, • Sally Jewell, and NPS Director, Jonathan B. Jarvis, whose work and ideas continue to shape initiatives aimed at expanding inclusion.George McDonald• , Youth Programs Manager, for his commitment to diversity, innovation and the fair representation of underrepresented communities.Paloma Bolasny• , Youth Program Coordinator, Cultural Resources Directorate, whose passion for cultural resources, dedication to youth, and guidance continue to inspire LHIP’s evolving DNA. Alex Tremble• , Youth Programs Analyst, for his consistent support, and strategic leadership. Steven Ávila• , Special Assistant, Oce of Intergovernmental and External Aairs, whose dedication to the Latino community once again provided interns with great opportunities to get the most out of their summers. NPSsta• from LHIP host sites for their mentorship and professionalism Julie Rodriguez• , for, recognizing our youth’s accomplishments and inspiring to sí se puedeThe many guest speakers at the post-internship workshop, including:• Carlos Martinez• , Latino Community FoundationLeticia Salinas• , Denver Museum of ArtIrela Bagué• , Bagué GroupBrad Smith• , Boulder County SustainabilityRafael Salgado• , Cal-Wood Education CenterAlex Tremble, Annette Martinez, Vanessa Lacayo• for participation on the Diversity PanelAnd last but not least, our amazing • LHIPsters for their inspiring work and powerful creativity.8LATINO HERITAGE INTERNSHIP PROGRAM2016 PROGRAM REPORT
CONTACT INFORMATIONGeorge McDonaldPrograms ManagerYouth Programs Divisiongeorge_mcdonald@nps.govPaloma BolasnyYouth Program CoordinatorCultural Resources Oce of Interpretation & EducationCultural Resources, Partnerships, and Sciencepaloma_bolasny@nps.govAlex TrembleNational Youth Employment Programs CoordinatorYouth Programs Divisionsalex_tremble@nps.gov 9LATINO HERITAGE INTERNSHIP PROGRAM2016 PROGRAM REPORTMaite ArceFounder and CEOmaite@hispanicaccess.org Liz NeuenschwanderChief of Finance & Operations liz@hispanicaccess.org Rodrigo Otárola y Bentin LHIP Coordinatorrodrigo@hispanicaccess.org Jessica LoyaLHIP Coordinatorjessica@hispanicaccess.org HAF - Mailing Address 1030 15th St. NW Suite B/1 # 150 Washington DC 20005 Tel: (202) 640-4342 hispanicaccess.orghispanicaccess.org/lhipSusanBoneldExecutive Directorsboneld@environmentamericas.orgDalia DortaLatino Outreach Coordinatordaliadorta@environmentamericas.orgLily CalderonBird Programs & Internshipslcalderon@environmentamericas.orgAsnoldo BenitezDiversity Outreach Coordinatorabenitez@environmentamericas.orgEFTA – Mailing Address5171 Eldorado Springs DriveSuite NBoulder, CO 80303Tel: (303) 499 - 1950environmentamericas.orglatinoheritageintern.com
PARTNERSHIPSENVIRONMENT FOR THE AMERICAS AND THE NATIONAL PARK SERVICEEFTA has a long history working with the National Park Service that began in the early 2000’s through EFTA’s key-stone education program, International Migratory Bird Day (IMBD). This hemispheric celebration of birds serves to provide biologists and educators the tools they need to engage the public in learning about birds and bird conser-vation. At this time, EFTA began receiving calls from NPS sta requesting Spanish-language materials. Subsequent conversations with parks revealed that IMBD events were not attended by diverse audiences, despite the changing demographics. These anecdotal results led to EFTA’s concerns that there might be barriers to participation in nature and science-based programs in the parks. As a result, EFTA proposed to study the issue and provide guidance not only to parks, but also to other sites that were struggling to reach Latino youth and adults.EFTA’s coordination of both the Latino Heritage Internship Program and Mosaics in Science Diversity Internship Program in partnership with Hispanic Access Foundation and Greening Youth Foundation respectively helps to ad-dress the need to diversify the faces our parks biologists, interpreters, and educators. The internship programs also provide critical experiences and the training needed to compete for jobs in the eld of natural resources, heritage preservation, and public engagement.HISPANIC ACCESS FOUNDATION AND THE NATIONAL PARK SERVICEThe Hispanic Access Foundation has established a very productive and collaborative partnership with the National Park Service beginning in 2012 through HAF’s public lands and conservation advocacy eorts. HAF has been inte-gral in helping to create a more diverse National Parks Service system. HAF has since helped in the designations of Boulder-White Clouds Wilderness Area, Browns Canyon National Monument, Mojave Trails National Monument, Sand to Snow National Monument, Castle Mountain National Monument and many more. These successes have been in part to the collaboration and dedication of Secretary Sally Jewell and NPS Director Jon Jarvis to advancing diversity and inclusion in the National Park Service. As a result, HAF has used its ability to con-vene grassroots organizing to elevate the authentic voices of the Latino community and their concerns regarding conservation, employment and diversity. HAF’s coordination of both the Latino Heritage Internship Program and collaboration with the National Park Service for the annual Latino Conservation Week celebrations actionably addresses the need to increase opportunities for diverse communities to engage with their National Parks as visitors, employees, interns, and stewards. The LHIP provides young Latinos the opportunity to learn and experience working for the National Park Service,s well as the opportunity to expand their professional, academic, and personal networks. 10LATINO HERITAGE INTERNSHIP PROGRAM2016 PROGRAM REPORT
ABOUT THE PARTNERSENVIRONMENT FOR THE AMERICASEnvironment for the Americas (EFTA) is a non-prot organization based in Boulder, Colorado whose primary mis-sion is to promote conservation across the Western Hemisphere. Eective conservation requires the engagement of diverse partners and people, and EFTA works to motivate broad participation in its own programs and in the eld of natural resources.In 2009, with research funding from the National Science Foundation, EFTA collaborated with national parks across the country to identify ways to increase participation by underserved audiences, particularly Latino. EFTA has used the results of its research to create Latino-focused internship opportunities, to raise visitation to parks and partici-pation in nature-based programs by Latinos, and to develop materials that may be used to better inform Latino communities about the opportunities parks provide. EFTA’s research and its model have informed many federal and non-governmental agencies and organizations, including the Bureau of Land Management, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the U.S. Forest Service, Los Angeles Audubon, the city of Longmont, Colorado, and others. Becoming a host organization for the LHIP program was a natural expansion of EFTA’s work with Latino youth. EFTA Website: www.environmentamericas.org Latino Heritage Internship Program: latinoheritageintern.com Facebook: Environment for the Americas Twitter: EFTA_birdday Instagram: EFTA_birdday HISPANIC ACCESS FOUNDATIONHAF is a 501(c)3 nonprot organization that provides vital programming and support to the Latino community across the U.S. We believe that cross-sector partnerships are essential to creating positive social change and engag-ing everyone’s strengths to contribute to American society. We focus on nancial education, health, environment, college access and workforce development. Our proven model helps our partners to provide high quality services and information while building strong rela-tionships and brand awareness with the rapidly expanding Latino population. Partners often turn to HAF to custom-ize their traditional outreach and engagement strategy to better reect the needs and behavior of Latinos.HAF partners with socially responsible companies, government agencies, and community and faith-based organiza-tions committed to providing high-quality resources and services to the Latino community and engaging non-tradi-tional stakeholders. Partners include the National Park Service, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Hewlett Foundation, H&R Block, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and Recreational Equipment Incorporated.HAF Website: www.hispanicaccess.org Latino Heritage Internship Program: hispanicaccess.org/lhip Facebook: Hispanic Access Foundation Twitter: @HispanicAccess Instagram: HispanicAccess11LATINO HERITAGE INTERNSHIP PROGRAM2016 PROGRAM REPORT
STATEMENT OF PURPOSEThe Latino Heritage Intern Program is a component of an overarching service-wide strategy to address and correct the lack of Latino employment opportunities within the NPS. NPS developed Cooperative and Task Agreements to engage the next generation through the strategic use of student internships with partner organizations. These agreements allowed the NPS to invest in cost ecient strategies geared towards recruiting entry level talent, pre-dicting future performance, and building a more diverse workforce. Preparing and integrating this generation into the NPS workforce is critical for the future of the Service.PROGRAM GOALS AND OBJECTIVESAdvance employment opportunities in the NPS with an emphasis on cultural resource stewardship and interpretation issues. Outreach projects and natural resource stewardship opportunities, especially those in the professional career series will also be included.Develop mission critical internship projects that will support NPS goals and objectives.Target undergraduate and graduate Latinos and Latinas attending Hispanic Serving Institutions.Create strong and viable mentor and protégé relationships for the participants.Utilize this program through Latino owned and operated partner organizations to expand NPS out-reach into the Latino communities nationally and develop deep and sustainable relationships.Establish a pipeline for converting Latino and Latina interns into career conditional positions in the National Park Service.FUNDING AMOUNTS12LATINO HERITAGE INTERNSHIP PROGRAM2016 PROGRAM REPORTFUNDING SOURCE National Park Service (Original Agreement)C&O Canal TrustNational Park Foundation and REIIntermountain RegionGrand CanyonNational Park Service (Extensions)TOTAL AMOUNT$450,000.00$27,625.00$21,600.00$20,000.00$10,621.00$101,647.71$631,493.71
PROGRAM SUCCESSESTOTAL NUMBER OF INTERNSHIPS FUNDED: 49 Environment for the Americas was responsible for the coordination, supervision, and logistical support of 23 LHIP interns. These internships were funded by a variety of partners as listed below: NPS Youth Programs: 21 Grand Canyon: 1 Intermountain Region Youth Programs Division: 1Hispanic Access Foundation was responsible for the coordination, supervision, and logistical support of 26 LHIP interns. These internships were funded by a variety of partners as listed below:NPS Youth Programs: 22 C&O Canal Trust: 2 National Park Foundation and REI: 2 EXAMPLE OF STUDENT SUCCESSHISTORIC AMERICAN LANDSCAPE SURVEY: ALEXANDER ESPAROLINIAfter winning the rst place in the Charles E. Peterson Measured Drawing Competition sponsored by the Historic American Buildings Survey (HABS), Alexander applied to LHIP and was recruited to work in the Historic American Landscapes Survey (HALS). His main project encompassed a sketch documenting the Ains Marne American Cem-etery and Memorial buildings commissioned by the American Battle Monuments Commission.Measurable Successes:During the 10 weeks of his internship, Alexander completed a detailed sketch of the Ains Marne American Cemetery and Memorial Superintendent House, the front, back and lateral elevations of the front gate. 3D photogrammetry model of the buildings sketched: https://sketchfab.com/models/e4b1a619eaf948cb9640947b5143c5e3Completed a sketch of an ADA Compliant access ramp and the surrounding gardens from the Odd Fellow Home Association 13LATINO HERITAGE INTERNSHIP PROGRAM2016 PROGRAM REPORT
ROUTE 66 - THE LATINO INFLUENCE: LENA GUIDILena Guidi reapplied to LHIP because of her interest in furthering her work exploring the inuence of Latinos on Route 66 in New Mexico. This year, she had the opportunity to follow-up on some of the stories she had begun to explore. For example, her work took her to the town of Los Lunas to meet with historians and community members to examine the migrations of Dust Bowl refugees and the development of a new Route 66 museum.Measurable Successes:Development of a database of business owners along Route 66;Completion of research on Route 66 that is compiled for use by historians of Route 66;Reporting on evidence of Hispanic presence along Route 66 in New Mexico before 1937;12 week extension because of the excellence and thoroughness of her research.FORT LARNED NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE - PAOLA SOLIS Larned, Kansas, of which 7% of its population identify as Latino, is located near two cities in Kansas with a sub-stantial Latino population: Big Bend with 21.9% Latinos, and Dodge City with 57.5%. Paola was recruited to provide guidelines and advice on increasing Latino visitation for the park, while working on developing the resources inter-preting the Hispanic heritage on the Santa Fe Trail. Despite the site’s challenging location, Paola worked through her internship with great optimism and provided substantial input to the park’s outreach strategies.Measurable Successes:Latino community outreach guidelines and database, including a list of Spanish media contactsCulturally sensitive consultation on new museum exhibit Santa Fe trail museum exhibitParticipation in Sally Jewell’s town-hall meeting at César Chávez National Monument representing Fort Larned SAN FRANCISCO MARITIME NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE - EDUARDO CHAIDEZ Eduardo has a passion for art and is now attending graduate school at the University of Chicago, where he says the amount of required reading is enormous! During his LHIP internship, he applied his painting and illustration skills in a new way by working in the park’s small boat shop. He especially enjoyed the small groups that would watch the construction and cheer him and others on. Measurable Successes:Assisted with the construction of a replica “yawl” boat to be used in the park’s Centennial Celebration. Conducted outreach to diverse audiences and led kayaking trips and workshop interpretive programs.Participated in multi-park program, “Packing the Parks,” hosted by the Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy to celebrate the NPS Centennial.14LATINO HERITAGE INTERNSHIP PROGRAM2016 PROGRAM REPORT
LHIP WEBINARSPartner organizations prepare a series of webinar workshops to aid and support students throughout their intern-ship program. The topics of webinars are decided upon by each organization and vary. The webinar series serves as an opportunity for LHIP interns to connect with their colleagues placed at other NPS sites across the nation. HISPANIC ACCESS FOUNDATION WEBINARS LHIP Orientation Webinar Led by Rodrigo Otárola y BentínDiversity and Responding to Microaggressions Facilitated by Paloma Bolasny and NPS Employee Resource Group HORALEOverview of LHIP and NPS: General Discussion of Internship Led by Josephine TalamantezCultural relevance - Cross cultural communication Blog questionsAmerican Latino Theme Study: Our stories/histories Led by Josephine Talamantez Guest: Paloma BolasnyLatino Conservation Week Check-in and Support Led by Jessica LoyaLatinos in Heritage Conservation, Conservation and Preservation as it pertains to Latinos Community Outreach - (Featuring Latinos in Heritage Conservation) Guest speakers: Laura Dominguez and Desiree Smith, Co-Chairs from Latin@s in Heritage Conservation Facilitated by Josephine TalamantezLeadership and Skill Development Communications and Advocacy Led by Josephine TalamantezCareer Options - What’s next? Led by Josephine TalamantezENVIRONMENT FOR THE AMERICAS WEBINARS LHIP Orientation Webinar LedbyGibránLule-Hurtado&SusanBoneld15LATINO HERITAGE INTERNSHIP PROGRAM2016 PROGRAM REPORT1234567891
Writing and Publishing a Blog Guest Speaker: Forrest McKinney Facilitated by GibránArriving at Your Host Site Led by Gibrán & SusanPathways to the Park Guest Speaker: Fernando Vilalba (NPS)Diversity and Responding to Microaggressions Facilitated by Paloma Bolasny and NPS Employee Resource Group HORALENon-Federal Resumes Guest Speaker: Gale CoeyPreparing a Federal Resume Guest Speaker: Michele BratschunHow Climate Change will Rename Parks Guest Speaker: NASAHowtoPayoCollegeDebt Guest Speaker: Sara Delgadillo (LHIP 2015)Preparing Oral and Poster Presentations Led by SusanHeading to Denver: What to Expect and What to Bring Led by Aileen & SusanHeading to Denver: Final Questions!16LATINO HERITAGE INTERNSHIP PROGRAM2016 PROGRAM REPORT23456789101112
PRE-INTERNSHIP SURVEYPlease rate your level of interest in pursuing a career with state or federal public land agencies on a scale of 1 to 5, where 1 is “Not Interested” and 5 is “Very Interested”. Prior to this internship, have you ever visited a national park?17LATINO HERITAGE INTERNSHIP PROGRAM2016 PROGRAM REPORT5%5%2%2%
Prior to applying for the LHIP, have you ever applied for a position with the National Park Service?18LATINO HERITAGE INTERNSHIP PROGRAM2016 PROGRAM REPORT
POST-INTERNSHIP SURVEYIn the future, would you consider applying for a position at NPS?What did you learn from this experience? How did it change you?“Mainly I learned about the tremendous amount of opportunity with the National Park Service, including volunteerism, internships and longer term employment. I was blown away by the diversity of opportunities and that really changed my perspective about what a park ranger can do and does.”“In working at the XXX I learned the mechanisms and communication techniques that are necessary when looking for a quick response and eective change. I learned the bureaucracies and systems of communication that work best. Learning the dierent positions and their responsibilities helped me understand who to contact when and how. I also realized that some of the individuals working were often doing a lot more and lling in on dierent tasks that went beyond what their title suggested. In the future I plan to be more assertive and political when working at an agency or in public service. I learned that you cannot assume that everyone is willing and instead have to engage and sell yourself and your ideas as benetting the individuals that you want to assist you. This was extremely challenging on my site, I denitely plan to be more social and inviting. I think that NPS XXX really changed my notions of professionalism and how to act and react in a working environment. (It was dierent from some of the other jobs and atmospheres I have been a part of)”“I learned that the NPS is severely underfunded. As a result, I found most oces tend to be somewhat selsh in an eort to advance their cause, instead of focusing on the park service’s mission in a united fashion. This has changed my perception of the NPS and has provided insight into an atmosphere that I did not foresee having this problem.”“This internship oered me the opportunity to engage the community, work with the park and other organizations, and function independently and creatively. The XXX Park has been an exceptional learning environment in many dierent dimensions. I have been able to participate and actively contribute, in such a way that I can visibly see results. That has been one of the most rewarding experience in noticing the eect of the change that I can create; this has really empowered me and given me a greater sense of professional vision.”19LATINO HERITAGE INTERNSHIP PROGRAM2016 PROGRAM REPORT2%
20LATINO HERITAGE INTERNSHIP PROGRAM2016 PROGRAM REPORT“I learned from this experience about what it is like to work for both a design/preservation company and for a government company. It has changed me by providing valuable professional experience in both design and the government. It has made me aware of what I do and do not enjoy about oce environments in these elds and about what I do and do not enjoy about working for the government. The experience as a whole has been tremendously helpful in providing me insight about the workforce in general having graduated from college this past May. This experience has also made me quite grateful that I did not decide to go to a (design) graduate program immediately after undergraduate. I have learned an immense amount by working with XXX for just 9 weeks that is so much more helpful for me as I consider graduate programs in the next few years than if I had gone immediately to a graduate program.”“What I learned from this internship was the goals of the National Park Service as an agency and the challenges that come with inclusion. I have also learned about how to apply for a job with the Department of the Interior and the variety of careers that are available. It changed my perspective on pursuing a career within the NPS and future educational goals. It has also made me more passionate about improving relations between national parks and Latinos. I understand that climate change poses a threat to all, especially vulnerable communities. For this reason, preservation and conservation of natural resources will not be possible without the support of all of those in this country.”“I learned a lot about how change (to diversify the NPS) takes time, and that these rst steps are vital for the wanted outcome. I had a range of emotions throughout the internship, from anger to sadness to hopeful to perseverance. Anger and sadness because I had to swallow what the reality of the NPS has been like for the past 100 years. Hopeful and persevering towards the ends because new people are supporting and wanting diversity. These past ten weeks has taught me to understand that things don’t happen overnight. Nothing worth working for happens overnight, so work towards diversity until it is a solid stone. It changed me to understand and listen to opposing viewpoints, so that my arguments are stronger. It taught me that there is no way I am settling for a menial job, I want a career where I am uncomfortable and where I am actually breaking barriers. These ten weeks I will hold near to me heart as it helped me understand what is important to me, my community, and my nation’s future.”Yes, this internship denitely has made an impact in my career goals. It literally changed my views of what I want to do in my life period. I didn’t know careers like this existed for me, I thought it was only in National Geographic or the Discovery channel. I always yearned to have a career that protected/served the environment and wildlife, I just didn’t know how to get there. It was through LHIP that I learned I could do this for a living, it was this experience that made a path for my dream career.What do you wish you had known on day one of your internship?“I wish I had known a little bit more background information on NPS and the dierent jobs and functions. Also a lot more on federal acronyms because at the beginning I would walk into meetings and they would just mention things by acronyms, which was confusing.”“How awesome it would be. But more seriously, I wish I had gotten to know some other interns (had a conference before it began).”“The only thing I wish I would have known is the sta at the park. Not personally but perhaps a chart of who was who.”What was your favorite part of the internship?“My favorite part of my internship has been connecting with all the park visitors and enhancing their experience of the park (as well as the sta eld trips ;).”“My team at the National Park was incredible. The supervision was completely admirable and noteworthy. I learned so much from observing the way they managed, organized, and listened to each individual in the most calm and charismatic way. They were truly a joy to work with and an incredible support system for me and my projects.”
21LATINO HERITAGE INTERNSHIP PROGRAM2016 PROGRAM REPORT“My favorite part of the internship was learning new skills like writing a press release, which was something I had never done before.”“The conference! I loved meeting the other interns and especially the workshops/mock interviews at the intermountain regional oce.”“My favorite part of the internship was meeting all the other interns. Even though I did not talk much at the conference I felt extremely empowered at the conference. Listening to such passionate and intelligent people gave me a sense of pride in my personal life and at my new job.”“My favorite park of the internship was being able to work with dierent branches of the park. We worked with the maintenance crew, the biologist, we did social media, and much more. I got a feel for every part of the park and interacted with most the employees.”“My favorite part was knowing that the outreach and community relevancy we created were able to bring in new audiences to the park.”“The highlights of this internship experience was living with dierent people that have now become family. I lived in a dorm with 15 or more people and as crazy as it sounds, it worked out so well. The personalities and cultures that we all came from just t and we built an awesome support system for one another.”“Being able to travel and making connections with new people.”“The Highlights of my experience were outreaching to local organizations who seek to provide a voice to Chicanx and Indigenous communities in Arizona. Another experience was the collaboration with resource management for agave planting and our cave clean-up.”“I enjoyed interacting with visitors and with the Rangers and participating in the anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Sentiments.”“Outreach events to communities and people like me. I really enjoyed reaching out to youth and Latino groups especially because I can most readily identify the attention and type of programming needed. It also felt good to be able to talk to these groups in Spanish and have them feel comfortable. So far I have been able to write articles and notices that have been distributed throughout the Intermountain Region including coverage of the Ancestral Lands program.”“Getting to nd new sites and artifacts on a daily basis”“Working in curatorial and working on my Ranger Program.”“Oh wow. The conference was amazing, I’m so happy that an empowering group of people were brought together to speak to us. On my host site, almost everything was a highlight. I was able to do a lot of avian surveys in addition to other great things and I made a lot of friendships. I loved it there and will go back to see them and the park again before the season ends in October.”I really enjoyed reaching out to youth and Latino groups especially because I can most readily identify the attention and type of programming needed. It also felt good to be able to talk to these groups in Spanish and have them feel comfortable.
22LATINO HERITAGE INTERNSHIP PROGRAM2016 PROGRAM REPORTIf you could make one recommendation to the Director of the National Park Service on how to better engage young people/ adults and diverse communities, what would you say?“I think Park Rangers should be visiting more high schools and telling them about the volunteerism, internship and employment opportunities. I also think they should be at job fairs at colleges and universities to show how to navigate the USA Jobs website.”“I think it’s important to pay attention to things that interest youth. An example is the release of Pokemon Go. Without much eort, parks can advertise how Pokemon Go can be used in their park, and young people will be drawn to the park. I also think having engaging and enthusiastic park rangers doing outreach could attract more youth. I think when youth can relate to park sta, this can increase their comfort level and nd parks less intimidating or boring and see them as more inviting and enjoyable.”“Diversity training for all existing NPS sta that is interactive and focuses on the institutional and systemic barriers. This will encourage a change in the CURRENT climate and open up conversations and interests of some sta who may interested but not vocal. MUST BE A WORKSHOP NOT A WEBINAR.”“With an increase in people moving into cities, youth are idolizing people in entertainment and sports, instead of people like David Crockett one-hundred years ago. Therefore, I’d suggest to reach out to celebrities to make the outdoors “cool” again like it was.”“In a society in which younger generations have shorter attention spans, one must emphasize the relationship of education and entertainment. The way we communicate whether through exhibits, tours, generic information should contain an element of involvement, pop culture, sensory perception, and entertainment.”“More written maps/brochures in Spanish and more diverse sta members, which is in part carried out by having more direct paths for employment within the NPS.”“Create a bridge between local community centers and the NPS. Classes, transportation, etc. would be a good way to interact and penetrate to diverse communities.”“I believe that the National Park Service is a great organization that a lot of people can get behind, but it does seem to be left behind. I think the sites and events that NPS works on are very interesting, but the dicult part would be to get the word out. I think NPS should continue to expand their social media presence.”“In order to engage young and diverse communities this should also be reected within the workforce. People will attend places in which they see themselves reected in and if NPS does not reect diversity or youth those audiences will not attend parks.”“A recommendation would be to hire more sta that is not only representative of the community but also has an understanding of how to engage the local community.”“More free days and a way to get transportation for the Latino community. Also, more programs and exhibits that highlight the Latino perspective.”“Create bilingual options for the growing Latino communities in the park. They are working on this, but more information of the Native American populations of the area would be great too. I know funding gears more towards the pig war, but the island oers so much more than that”“Let people in the system! This hiring process is so tedious and overwhelming, which causes people to look elsewhere. This is why we lose such great people also, if we can make this easier we will gain a wide array of talented people.”
23LATINO HERITAGE INTERNSHIP PROGRAM2016 PROGRAM REPORT“Create more programs and events that welcome diverse communities. I had never been to a park with my family. The parks where we live are far and pricey. Creating events that invite and reach out to our communities would bring in more diverse people to the parks. Seek out partner organizations to collaborate in smaller parks to get familiarized and have consistent visitation of community.”“Mandated cultural sensitivity training for all employees and it has to be more than a one day workshop and a lm. Also hiring young adults to promote NPS at college campuses and high schools.”“Be relevant to our sources of communication and issues of interest. Social media, partner with city colleges, minority groups, and give the appropriate funding for students of low resources to actually take these opportunities. Unpaid internships or volunteer work does not work for us and our communities.”“Be open to change and doing things dierently. NPS is stuck on tradition, and although that’s great, it’s slowing down the progression of real life and at hand change.”“I would recommend that the director personally reach out and engage with diverse communities to better understand the culture and lifestyle of those young people/adults.”“Outreaching to schools and universities of people who are interested in these topics and programs”“Have us have longer internships or get a job since they want “diversity” in the National Parks Service.”“Lassen lacked in educational outreach, which I believe is important to get more diverse communities interested in visiting the park. Many Latino communities are probably unaware of the park’s existence, much less the beauty it holds, so I would recommend that. (Sorry interp!!)”“More educational outreach, which I believe is important to get more diverse communities interested in visiting the park. Many Latino communities are probably unaware of the park’s existence, much less the beauty it holds, so I would recommend that.”
LIST OF INTERN PROJECTSPARTICIPANT SITE PLACEMENT AND PROJECT DESCRIPTIONSISABEL ARGOTINPS Site: Intermountain Regional Oce, LakewoodInternship Position: Centennial Communication and Urban Outreach Intern Project Duties: Youth group events (Latino Outdoors Youth Camp; Environmental Learning for Kids, Urban Ranger Program), special eventsVIRGINIA ANSALDINPS Site: Biscayne National ParkInternship Position: Community Outreach InternProgram Duties: Increasing Biscayne National Park Identity in the Latin American Community of Greater MiamiCHRISTIE BARTHOLOMEWNPS Site: Pecos National Historic ParkInternship Position: Communications intern Project Duties: Picture This! - - Digital Imagery at Pecos National Historical ParkEDUARDO CHAIDEZNPS Site: San Francisco Maritime National Historic Park and MuseumInternship Position: Outreach and Engagement of Bay Area Latino Community During NPS Centennial Year Project Duties: Special events; summer kayak program for teens; working in the Small Boat Shop ALEXIA CONSTANZANPS Site: National Trails Intermountain Region, Santa Fe NMInternship Position: Digital Media: Sharing the Diverse History of National Trails through Esri Story MapsProject Duties: Cultural Interpreter; created Story Maps that featured notable multicultural trail leaders; research, interviews; festivals and children’s programs.JANELLY CORONANPS Site: Lake Mead Mead National Recreation CenterInternship Position: Communications intern Project Duties: Encuentra Tu Parque Strategic Communications OutreachKATRINA COSSIONPS Site: Mount Rushmore National Memorial, also Jewel Cave and Devil’s TowerInternship Position: Interpretation and Curatorial StangProject Duties: Developed/presented historical ranger talks, organized climbing registrationsGABRIEL DOBBINSNPS Site: Colorado National MonumentInternship Position: White Rocks Archeology InternProject Duties: Summer Archeology Intern 24LATINO HERITAGE INTERNSHIP PROGRAM2016 PROGRAM REPORT
25LATINO HERITAGE INTERNSHIP PROGRAM2016 PROGRAM REPORTDYAAMI D’ORAZIONPS Site: Everglades National ParkInternship Position: Education and InterpretationProject Duties: Provide assistance to Interpretation Division at Shark Valley during the National Park Service’s Centennial Celebration yearALEXANDER ESPAROLININPS Site: Historic American Landscapes SurveyInternship Position: Architect / CAD Draftsman / Historic Preservation TechnicianProject Duties: Aisne-Marne World War I Cemetery documentation AVIDAN FERNANDEZNPS Site: Historic American Building SurveyInternship Position: Architect / CAD Draftsman / Historic Preservation TechnicianProject Duties: Alcatraz Citadel 3D mappingJANETTE GALLARDONPS Site: NPS Washington Support Oce,Centennial OceInternship Position: Centennial Intern TeamProject Duties: Centennial StrategiesELIZABETH GANDARANPS Site: Chamizal National MemorialInternship Position: Outreach internProject Duties: Segundo Barrio (Second Ward El Paso, Texas) OutreachNUVIA GARCIA-MENDEZNPS Site: Grand Canyon National ParkInternship Position: Education and InterpretationDuties: Lead visitor and youth programsLENA GUIDINPS Site: Intermountain Region National Trails OceInternship Position: Researcher on “The Hispanic Legacy of Route 66 in the American Southwest”Project Duties: Historic Route 66 research projectNORMA HARTELLNPS Site: Everglades National Park & Dry Tortugas National ParkInternship Position: Archives InternDuties: Increase Accessibility of Historic Photographs through Social Media and Web SearchabilityCALEB HENDERSONNPS Site: Biscayne National ParkInternship Position: Underwater ArcheologistProject Duties: Survey two Spanish Galleons JULIAN HUERTASNPS Site: Olmsted Center for Landscape PreservationInternship Position: Landscape ArchitectProject Duties: Designing the Parks Program
26LATINO HERITAGE INTERNSHIP PROGRAM2016 PROGRAM REPORTEDITH JIMENEZNPS Site: Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve, IdahoInternship Position: Interpretive Park Ranger and Outreach InternProject Duties: Interpretive Park Ranger and Outreach Intern, giving tours. DANIEL LOPEZNPS Site: Coronado National Memorial (also Chiricahua National Monument and Fort Bowie National Historic Site)Internship Position: Latino Cultural Exchange within the BorderlandsJOSE MADRID GALVANNPS Site: Guadalupe Mountains National ParkInternship Position: Cultural Resource Management InternProject Duties: Preservation of Frijole RanchBRIDGET MANJARREZNPS Site: Grand Tetons National ParkInternship Position: Grand Teton National Park InterpretationProject Duties: Interpretive Park RangerCRISTINA MARTINEZNPS Site: Sequoia and Kings Canyon National ParksInternship Position: Outreach InternProject Duties: Kaweah River Visitor Safety and Stewardship Program KYLE MCGRADYNPS Site: Channel Islands National ParkInternship Position: Preservation of Historic Structures in Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Channel Islands National ParkProject Duties: Renovating, repairing and maintaining historic structures.KAILEIGH MENDOZANPS Site: Fire Island National SeashoreInternship Position: Interpretation and Community Outreach InternProject Duties: Interpretive programs, summer camps, outreach to schools, community eventsJESSICA MILLMANNPS Site: Black Canyon of the Gunnison National ParkInternship Position: Wilderness RangerProject Duties: Interpretive Park Ranger intern, ecosystem restoration CELESTE MONTAÑONPS Site: Independence Hall National Historic ParkInternship Position: Urban Fellow AssistantProject Duties: Urban Agenda Youth Engagement InternANDREA MORENO-VASQUEZNPS: Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historic ParkInternship Position: Outreach InternProject Duties: Urban Youth and Family Special Programming
27LATINO HERITAGE INTERNSHIP PROGRAM2016 PROGRAM REPORTJOYSKA NUÑEZ-MEDINANPS Site: George Washington Memorial ParkwayInternship Position: Cultural Resources Management Project Duties: Museum Curation LISSETE OCAMPONPS Site: Homestead National Monument of AmericaInternship Position: Preserving Corporate History: Archives and Oral HistoryProject Duties: Archival collections, oral history interviews, historic preservation, special eventsPAOLA PEREZNPS Site: Fort Larned National Historic SiteInternship Position: Historical Interpretive InternProject Duties: Conducting Hispanic outreach, Centennial eventASHLEYANN PEREZ RIVERANPS Site: Boston National Historical Park - Charlestown Navy YardInternship Position: Communication & Outreach InternProject Duties: Boston Urban Agenda engagementBRENDA RAMIREZNPS Site: Santa Monica National Recreation AreaInternship Position: Outreach InternProject Duties: Santa Monica National Recreation Area - Urban Communities engagementREBECCA RENTERIANPS Site: Washington Support Oce, Archaeology ProgramInternship Position: ArcheologistProject Duties: Linking Latino Heritage Through ArcheologyGRECIA RIVAS CHAVEZNPS Site: Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historic ParkInternship Position: Outreach InternProject Duties: Urban Youth and Family Special ProgrammingVICTORIA RODRIGUEZNPS Site: Lasson Volcanic National ParkInternship Position: Wilderness RangerProject Duties: Wilderness Stewardship Intern; Centennial eventFERNANDO ROJASNPS Site: Brown vs. Board of Education National Historic SiteInternship Position: Segregation Exhibit Development and Visitor ServicesProject Duties: Developed exhibit on Mexican immigration into Kansas; researching legal case that ended school segregation for Mexican-American students in California. CORY ROSASNPS Site: Intermountain Regional OceInternship Position: Centennial Communication and Urban Outreach InternProject Duties: Promoting youth projects at parks; events (Centennial, festival, outreach); developed Ancestral Rangers programSEBASTIÁN SALGADO FLORESNPS Site: San Antonio Missions National Historical ParkInternship Position: ArcheologistProject Duties: Update Inventory of Museum Exhibits Parkwide
28LATINO HERITAGE INTERNSHIP PROGRAM2016 PROGRAM REPORTDANIEL SANCHEZNPS Site: Great Smoky Mountains National ParkInternship Position: Resources InternProject Duties: Cultural Resources intern; historic preservation; historic structure research/assessmentJEANETTE SANCHEZNPS Site: Women’s Rights National Historical ParkInternship Position: Outreach InternProject Duties: Children of Color Music and Art ProgramDANIELA SIERRANPS Site: Lowell National Historical ParkInternship Position: Outreach InternProject Duties: Community Engagement Summer Experience PAOLA SOLISNPS Site: Fort Larned National Historical ParkInternship Position: Outreach InternProject Duties: Fort Larned community engagementEDUARDO SORIANO NPS Site: Timucuan Ecological and Historical PreserveInternship Position: Urban Fellow AssistantProject Duties: Jacksonville Urban Agenda OutreachYANERIS SOTO MUÑIZNPS Site: NPS Washington Support Oce, Oce of CommunicationsInternship Position: Communications InternProject Duties: Public Aairs and Social Media internMELISSA VERGARANPS Site: Lewis and Clark National Historical ParkInternship Position: Youth Engagement and Outreach InternProject Duties: Summer campsCRISTIAN VILLANPS Site: Grand Canyon National ParkInternship Position: Interpretation and Resource Education High School InternshipProject Duties: Summer Intern Assistant for the YCC Interp ProgramRAFAELLA WICKERNPS Site: San Juan Islands National ParkInternship Position: ArcheologistProject Duties: Establish Baseline for Assessing Climate Change Impacts on Coastal Pre-contact Archaeological ResourcesMARTA ZAYASNPS Site: San Juan National Historic SiteInternship Position: Cannon Restoration InternProject Duties: Historical research and conservation
PROJECT HIGHLIGHTSOUTDOOR CLASSROOM, WITH VIRGINIA ANSALDI - BISCAYNE NATIONAL PARK COMMUNITY OUTREACH LHIP INTERN 2016Through her work at Biscayne National Park, Virginia seized the opportunity to combine her interest in environmental science education, strong communications background, Latino heritage, as well as her connection to the Miami-Dade county community. Considering all of her interests, the LHIP assignment at Biscayne was a perfect t. Early on during her LHIP experience, Virginia identied the obstacles impeding further park engagement from the populous Latino community in the area. Water vehicles such as boats, canoes, kayaks are not rented by the park and only provided to groups under ranger-led programs. The solution: provide a Spanish-language boat tour of the coast for large groups of Latinos to introduce culturally relevant programming at the park. With the support of rangers, Jay Johnstone and Yelitza Sepúlveda, Virginia began putting together two boat tours for Latino Conservation Week. For both Saturdays of her events, Virginia’s Latino Conservation Week celebration engaged 71 people from diverse Latin American backgrounds (Argentinian, Colombian, Cuban, Peruvian, Puerto Rican, Venezuelan). For her canoe tours, Virginia partnered with “Debris Free Oceans” and the “University of Miami -Shark Research”, thus sharing educational resources on how to protect the coast and marine life. “We wanted to focus on getting people out in the water, because well, [Biscayne is] 95% water!” , indicated Virginia when reecting on the need to build more bridges for increased accessibility of the park’s vast marine resources. ¡Gracias totales, Virginia!29LATINO HERITAGE INTERNSHIP PROGRAM2016 PROGRAM REPORT
ALTERNATIVE VACATIONS: FOSTERING CULTURAL RELEVANCE, WITH CELESTE MONTAÑO AND REBECCA RENTERIA - INDEPENDENCE HALL NATIONAL HISTORIC PARK AND WASHINGTON SUPPORT OFFICE ARCHEOLOGY PROGRAM, RESPECTIVELY Educational programs have been one of the core elements of NPS community engagement. Through interprative programs and special informative events, families and youth have continued to learn about their local parks and historic sites. During this summer, two of our LHIP interns focused on designing and conducting summer camps aimed at creating long-lasting relationships between youth and parks. Here are their stories! CELESTE: This year, Independence Hall National Historic Park’s Urban Agenda included an innovative plan led by an Interpretative Specialist to engage youth of color through a series of educational summer camps focused on the ideals of leadership, freedom and community responsibility inspired by the park’s own history. Our LHIP intern, Celeste Montaño, was a great addition to her planning team. Throughout her internship, Celeste not only had the opportunity to design generational and culturally relevant activities for the summer camps, but also to facilitate the summer camps while building a strong rapport with the youth she served. The success of her work in the summer camps earned her a one-year extension where she will focus in making the summer educational experiences for youth more than a one-time thing. REBECCA: What’s one of the best ways to bridge Southwestern archeology to the community? If you imagined a fun and rigorous archeological summer camp program, then you will be interested in reading Rebecca’s experience with the WASO Archeology Program and the Linking Hispanic Heritage Through Archaeology (LHHTA) in Tucson, Arizona. For the duration of her internship, Rebecca gained hands-on experience to leverage the knowledge acquired in her Masters of Applied Archeology by introducing the outdoors, national parks, and archeological resources to Latino high school students. In parks like Casa Grande National Monument, and Montezuma Castle National Monument, the students received equipment to record, document and present their experiences with activities pertaining to zoo archaeology, bio-archaeology, Southwest ceramics, among other archeology labs. Rebecca hopes to incorporate her experience with outreach and youth engagement for her future career as an archeologist. ¡Buen trabajo, Celeste y Rebecca!30LATINO HERITAGE INTERNSHIP PROGRAM2016 PROGRAM REPORT
NAVIGATING TRANSNATIONAL BORDERLANDS - CORONADO NATIONAL MEMORIAL WITH LHIP STUDENT DANIEL LOPEZ Daniel traveled from California to the Mexican border and Coronado National Memorial. His coursework and experiences made him an ideal candidate for the position and he arrived with knowledge of archaeology, the history of North American Indians, and awareness of Chicano history. In his application, he shared that he “would like to be a representative, increase my leadership skills and be a vehicle of change and education of and within my community to address and build discussions around the environmental impacts on the Chican@/xs and Latin@/xs.” His experiences at Coronado raised his awareness of many facets of the National Park Service, especially the challenges of managing a site that is located along the U.S./Mexico border and is valued by diverse groups.One of the focuses of Daniel’s work was to integrate communities in activities at Coronado National Memorial. His education programs and science-based workshops provided information about local wildlife and the Francisco Vasquez de Coronado expedition, which explored the American Southwest. He collaborated not only with Latino communities, but also with Native American groups whose history in the Memorial brings them to the site multiple times per month. Among Daniel’s recommendations for the site are to improve relationships among park law enforcement and park visitors by diversifying the sta, particularly by increasing the number who are bilingual (Spanish/English). Among his accomplishments is his outreach to Latino and Native American organizations as part of the park’s Borderland’s Festival.Daniel’s presentation at the post-internship workshop sparked discussion about the importance of NPS sta who have Spanish language skills and can communicate with Latino visitors and the need for more sta training that exposes law enforcement ocers and other sta to the sensitive issues of a borderland park. 31LATINO HERITAGE INTERNSHIP PROGRAM2016 PROGRAM REPORT
SPOTTING THE SPOTTED OWL AT LASSEN VOLCANIC NATIONAL PARK WITH LHIP INTERN VICTORIA RODRIGUEZ Victoria describes herself as a proud Chicana and left her San Diego home to become a Wilderness Ranger. A sophomore at Humboldt State University in California, she will graduate in 2018 with majors in wildlife and religion. Victoria is also an avid birdwatcher and hopes to continue her studies in ornithology through a Master’s or even Doctoral degree. Lassen oered Victoria a Wilderness Ranger position and the opportunity to explore the eld of ornithology through bird banding, owl surveys, and experiences in backcountry eld work. Her work was largely new to her, and she left having hiked more miles than ever before, taking her into areas of the park to assess their wilderness qualities and character. The assessments she completed will help the park accomplish its mandated goal to preserve wilderness character. Victoria also become part of an avian research team that gathered data on nesting owls and resident and migratory passerines. A “one-of-a-kind” experience searching for and locating a nesting Spotted Owl led her to help in making recommendations to the park about areas that are important to these species and suspending re management actions to benet nesting owl.32LATINO HERITAGE INTERNSHIP PROGRAM2016 PROGRAM REPORT
“33LATINO HERITAGE INTERNSHIP PROGRAM2016 PROGRAM REPORT““”””INTERN & STAFF QUOTESI can only hope to continue providing such enriching experiences as these. A huge thanks is due to the Hispanic Access Foundation and Biscayne National Park for the opportunity to be a part of peoples journey to nd their park. VIRGINIA ANSALDI Biscayne National Park LHIP intern 2016 I got the incredible privilege to attend President Obama’s remarks at the National Park Service’s Centennial Celebration at Yosemite National Park. Never would I have thought that I would be invited to attend such a special event and listen to President Obama give a speech in person (Many thanks to HAF and the WH!)CRISTINA MARTINEZ GUZMÁN Sequoia National Park LHIP intern 2016 Celeste was able to work seamlessly with me in evaluating the potential success as well as the actual success of activities during the summer camps. We revised constantly, always striving for the best possible experience for our young visitors. I came to rely upon her as my trusted advisor and collaborator. RENEE ALBERTOLINPS Interpretive Specialist, Independence Hall National Historic Park
NEWS & VIDEOSJulian Huertas - Olmsted Center for Landscape Preservation - Hispanic Access FoundationLatino Conservation Week Event at La Victoria, Historic Puerto Rican Community in BostonINSIDE NPS: NORTHEAST REGION On Friday July 22nd, the Olmsted Center for Landscape Preservation in Boston, Massachusetts visited the Northeastern University Archives and Special Collections Department to learn about the history of Villa Victoria and Puerto Rican culture in Boston’s South End. Julián Huertas, a Designing the Parks intern for the Olmsted Center for Landscape Preservation through the Hispanic Access Foundation and the Latino Heritage Internship Program, planned and coordinated the event for Latino Conservation Week, which promotes civic engagement and education of Latinos in the United States about the outdoors, preservation, and conservation. With an archivist at Northeastern University, the group toured the archive facility and analyzed the extensive archived reports, papers, documents, maps, city plans, and photographs of Villa Victoria in the South End of Boston. In the 1960s, the Boston Redevelopment Authority labeled Parcel 19, the twenty-acre community in the South End that contained about 2,000 Puerto Ricans, as an area for urban renewal. The residents, understanding that redevelopment would price them out, took action and collectively gained the support from other local residents, neighbors, priests, architects, college volunteers, and redevelopment professionals. The Puerto Rican residents eventually did win the right to keep Villa Victoria and stay in Parcel 19, marking a landmark event in the city of Boston that demonstrates to this day the signicance of Puerto Rican heritage and culture, grass-roots activism, political organization, civil liberties, and historic preservation. After the visit to the Northeastern University Archives and Special Collections Department, the group visited Villa Victoria in person to experience the current ethos and atmosphere of the community. The neighborhood and community is still incredibly alive, vibrant, and proud of their heritage. The history and legacy of Latino culture perseveres in Boston and New England as the success of Villa Victoria is still remembered to this day.Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FIRw_8Be5Z0Lowell National Historic Park- Daniela Sierra - Hispanic Access FoundationEncuentra Tu Parque Video for Lowell National Historic ParkVideo: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MUGc_hxgEUYFeatured in the Lowell National Historical Park - 2015/2016 ReportHispanic Access Foundation - Maite Arce, President & CEO Mention of Latino Heritage Internship Program in Hungton Post during Latino Conservation Week Article Link: http://www.hungtonpost.com/maite-arce/latino-conservation-week-_1_b_11068748.htmlColorado National Monument - Gabriel Dobbins - Environment for the Americas Watch the amazing video made as part of their project: https://youtu.be/PexhyFGymw8 Fort Point National Historic Site - Paola Perez - Environment for the AmericasWatch the amazing video made as part of their project: https://youtu.be/cKeu3OCbcP0 San Francisco Maritime National Monument - Eduardo Chaidez - Environment for the AmericasWatch Eduardo’s video: https://youtu.be/VIB55CNg_ukGrand Teton National Park - Bridget Manjarrez - Environment for the AmericasFollow Bridget’s adventures: https://youtu.be/6pd9tKKRd8E 34LATINO HERITAGE INTERNSHIP PROGRAM2016 PROGRAM REPORT
CONCLUSIONOn July 12th, LHIP 2015 Washington Support Oce Communications intern, Tomas Deza, became a full-time employee with the National Park Service after his one year extension. Now working as an Administrative Assistant to the Oce of Director Jarvis, Tomas is greatly positioned to continue with his career goals with the NPS. Alvin Rivera, a 2015 intern, was hired at San Francisco Maritime in 2016. Their stories demonstrate the potential of this program to generate essential connections between the NPS and our Latino community. Furthermore, this story, along the aforementioned program successes, are now palpable milestones to use as a compass for the future of the program.For this reason we will continue to focus on strengthening some key features of our programming:Continue to strengthen relationships with repeating parks and organizations to collaborate in sustained cultural relevanceFoster more mentorship opportunitiesCreate a large national network of LHIP advocatesWe look forward to continue engaging students across the nation with enriching professional opportunities, while at the same time, encouraging their participation in stewardship and the protection of our national treasures.35LATINO HERITAGE INTERNSHIP PROGRAM2016 PROGRAM REPORT
APPENDIX: INTERN BIOSISABEL ARGOTINational Park ServiceIntermountain Regional Oce / COIsabel Argoti recently completed her degree in architecture at the University of Virginia. She has been closely involved with graphic design and outreach with many university organizations, and will put these skills to work during her internship with the Youth Programs Division.VIRGINIA ANSALDIBiscayne National Park Virginia Ansaldi has completed her undergraduate studies in Marine Aairs and Policy at the University of Miami and worked there for 5 years as a team member and coordinator of the RJ Dunlap Marine Conservation Program. She then continued her professional career as an outdoor educator at the renowned Catalina Island Marine Institute. However, after a year of living in California she decided that her hometown, Miami, was in need of the kind of experiential education that is abundant in CA. She has since become a high school biology and environmental science teacher, organizing numerous hands on STEM related opportunities for her students. Virginia truly has a passion for the outdoors and is a rm believer that by engaging in our natural heritage, we become ambassadors for these spaces. She hopes to connect many more people to the National Parks and provide holistic education for the conservation of our planet. CHRISTIE BARTHOLOMEWPecos National Historic ParkChristie Bartholomew was born in Panama City, Panama and is a recent graduate of New Mexico State University, where she earned her Bachelor of Arts in journalism and mass communications. Bartholomew will be spending the summer at Pecos National Historical Park, utilizing her skills as a digital media intern. From a young age, she was interested in learning about nature, poring over books from the library about animals and the environment and visiting museums with her parents. As a college student, she spent time as a reporting intern, creating and recording content for KRWG-FM, a National Public Radio-aliated station in Las Cruces, New Mexico.EDUARDO CHAIDEZSan Francisco Maritime National Historic Park and MuseumEduardo Chaidez was born and raised in Oakland, California, and has recently completed his B.A. in art practice and ethnic studies at University of California Berkeley. He is interested in Latino community-building and has previous experience working with the East Bay Conservation Corps and the National Park Service. During his internship, he will assist with outreach and interpretation.36LATINO HERITAGE INTERNSHIP PROGRAM2016 PROGRAM REPORT
ALEXIA CONSTANZANational Trails Intermountain Region, Santa Fe NMAlexia Constanza recently graduated from James Madison University where she received a B.A. degree in technical communication and creative writing. She is a bachata dance enthusiast and multimedia guru who is passionate about Hispanic culture, writing, and video production. During her time as an undergraduate, she contributed digital and print materials to a blog, non-prot organization, and national magazine. This summer, she will conduct research to uncover over 400 years of Hispanic history.JANELLY CORONALake Mead Mead National Recreation CenterJanelly Corona is a rst generation Mexican American from Chicago, IL. Corona received a degree in Journalism, with minors in Spanish Language and Literature, and Latino/Latin American Studies from Northern Illinois University. She is very proud of her Latina roots and culture and strives towards becoming a voice for the Latino Community to empower and better educate them on valuable resources available to them. Corona is extremely excited to be a LHIP intern this summer and have the opportunity to use social media channels to reach various networks to spread preservation awareness of Lake Mead National Recreational Area to the Latino community.KATRINA COSSIOMount Rushmore National Memorial Jewel Cave and Devil’s TowerKatrina Cossio participated in LHIP in 2015 as an interpretive intern at Little Rock Central High School National Historical Site in Arkansas. She is from Southern California and aspires to enter the curation and conservation eld. Her internship will involve interpretation and curation.GABRIEL DOBBINSColorado National MonumentGabriel Dobbins recently completed his degree in anthropology and archaeology at University of North Carolina Chapel Hill. His skills and eld school experience will prove useful in the cultural resource preservation project.DYAAMI D’ORAZIOEverglades National ParkDyaami D’Orazio is a recent graduate of Oberlin College with a degree in Environmental Studies and minors in Gender, Feminist and Sexuality Studies, Politics, and Comparative American Studies. As a student there she was engaged with La Alianza Latinx, which works to promote community around Latinidad and social justice. As a Bonner Scholar, she engaged in community service at various organizations and most recently conducted Citizenship Classes helping undocumented folks in Lorain, Ohio learn the material for the United States citizenship exam. She looks forward to working with as an Education Interpretation Intern with Everglades National Park and hopes to keep working around issues of environmental justice, access to nature, and communities of color.37LATINO HERITAGE INTERNSHIP PROGRAM2016 PROGRAM REPORT
ALEXANDER ESPAROLINIHistoric American Landscapes SurveyAlexander Esparolini is a rising Senior Architecture Student at Polytechnic University of Puerto Rico. Born and raised at the Island of Enchantment, Alexander’s interests for the Historic Preservation grew due to its Spanish Colonial immediate history and context at Old San Juan. Esparolini has been part of abroad courses at Europe and Latin America, focusing primarily on the historical value of the design of its surroundings. In his spare time Alex is part of the university’s tennis team and likes to walk around town sketching buildings.AVIDAN FERNANDEZHistoric American Building SurveyAvidan is currently a fourth year architecture student at California Polytechnic University at Pomona and hopes to attend grad school to pursue a Master’s Degree in historic preservation. Avidan has worked as a docent and assistant to the artist in residence program that is hosted at Richard Neutra’s Studio and Residence. He has helped give guided tours to visitors as well as helping to assemble installations, which frame the historic fabric of the building in a modern context. Avidan is interested in highlighting issues about historic preservation in a dynamic social perspective that raises the public’s awareness to their environments.JANETTE GALLARDONPS Washington Support Oce,Centennial OceJanette Gallardo is a rst generation Mexican-American from Fresno, California. She was the rst member in her family to graduate from college with a Bachelor’s and also the rst to pursue a graduate degree. She is a History Master’s student at California State University, Fresno. As as graduate student she has had the opportunity to work as a student assistant, teaching undergraduate courses and gaining experience in the eld. As a Californian she knows rst hand of the signicance in making cultural institutions more accessible to the Latino community. She takes pride in her Mexican heritage and believes in fostering the inclusion of the Latino community within the National Park Service. In her free-time she enjoys reading, baking, and visiting museums.ELIZABETH GANDARAChamizal National MemorialElizabeth Gandara is a recent graduate from California State University Monterey Bay with a degree in Collaborative Health and Human Services with a concentration in Community Health. She was involved in campus organizations such as the student union, serving as the Co-Chair of the organization. She was also involved in her community and served nearly 300 hours of volunteer service, helping to coordinate an inclusionary nutrition program with a non-prot organization that serves people with developmental delays. Her goal is to attend graduate school and work in her community to improve the quality of life of the under represented populations in the area.NUVIA GARCIA-MENDEZGrand Canyon National ParkNuvia Garcia-Merino is pursuing a B.S. in molecular biology at California State University Monterey Bay. Through participation in multiple programs, Nuvia has gained signicant experience in bridging dicult topics with students. This summer, she will be a valuable asset for Grand Canyon National Park’s interpretive team.38LATINO HERITAGE INTERNSHIP PROGRAM2016 PROGRAM REPORT
LENA GUIDIIntermountain Region National Trails OceLena Guidi is majoring in American history at the University of New Mexico. She looks forward to working in the eld of public history and creating interpretive exhibits for museums, focusing on overlooked stories and peoples. This summer, Lena will be continuing her research into the Latino history of Route 66 (begun during her LHIP 2015 internship) for the National Trails System.NORMA HARTELLEverglades National Park & Dry Tortugas National ParkNorma Hartell is an artist, anthropologist, and farmer. She received a Bachelor in Fine Arts (BFA) from New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, New Mexico, in 2010. She continues to paint and exhibits her work annually. In 2016, Norma Hartell received an MA in Anthropology from the New Mexico State University. Her thesis focused on distinguishing the city of Las Cruces as an art community and documenting the ne art of the city. In 2015, during her time as a graduate student, she successfully nominated Chope’s Bar and Café to be listed on the National Register of Historic Places. That same year, she initiated a community based project called Murals of Las Cruces. Murals of Las Cruces focuses on documenting the murals of the city while creating a conversation with the public about local history, culture, and identity. In May 2015, she received the Arts and Science Outstanding Student Service Award from New Mexico State University. Additionally, she and her husband own and operate a self-sustaining one acre farm in Mesquite, NM.CALEB HENDERSONBiscayne National ParkCaleb is a native Texan and is currently in his fourth year of undergraduate studies at Texas State University majoring in Anthropology with a minor in International Studies. After serving over seven years in the United States Air Force, he learned to scuba dive while employed at the Meadows Center for Water and the Environment in order to continue pushing limits, and in doing so discovered Underwater Archeology. While out at the Meadows Center, Caleb assisted and advised in the creation of a therapeutic adventure diving program to provide student veterans an opportunity to decompress and explore the aquatic world. Upon completion of his undergraduate degree, he plans to attend graduate school at the University of Miami with the goal of one day becoming an Underwater Archeologist.JULIAN HUERTASOlmsted Center for Landscape PreservationJulián Martín Huertas grew up in the Greater Boston Area and is a 2016 graduate of Bowdoin College in Brunswick, Maine. Julián majored in Art History and Visual Arts as a Bowdoin Polar Bear and hopes to pursue a graduate degree and profession in design and architecture. Julián fostered his interest in design through studying abroad in Copenhagen, Denmark and through carrying out a research project his senior year on the National September 11 Memorial. Julián’s favorite activities include playing fútbol, drinking coee, casually philosophizing, and going on adventures.39LATINO HERITAGE INTERNSHIP PROGRAM2016 PROGRAM REPORT
EDITH JIMENEZCraters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve, IdahoEdith Jimenez is a senior majoring in cinema and television arts at California State University Northridge. She grew up in Pacoima, California, and is very excited to spend her rst summer away from her home state as an interpretive intern. DANIEL LOPEZCoronado National Memorial (also Chiricahua National Monument and Fort Bowie National Historic Site)Daniel Lopez recently graduated from the University of California Riversidewith a B.A. in linguistics and anthropology. His interests include Chicano/a studies and food access justice. Daniel will serve as an interpretation and outreach intern in the culturally rich Arizona borderlands.JOSE MADRID GALVANGuadalupe Mountains National ParkJose Madrid Galvan was born and raised in Mexico City. Jose is attending Tulane University where he is working towards a Masters in Preservation Studies. José has been both escaping to and escaping from urban environments all of his life. He has lived and worked abroad in Spain, New Zealand and Guatemala, and has a passion for photography, outdoors, advocacy work, travelling, architecture and history.BRIDGET MANJARREZGrand Tetons National ParkBridget Manjarrez grew up in San Bernardino and Rancho Cucamonga, California, and is majoring in environmental biology at Cal Poly Pomona. She is thrilled to learn more about the conservation and interpretive work of the National Park Service during her internship.CRISTINA MARTINEZSequoia and Kings Canyon National ParksCristina Martinez recently graduated from Duke University with a Bachelor’s of Science in Environmental Science and a minor in biology. During college, she participated in study abroad programs and courses focused on conservation and natural resource management. Being from Los Angeles, attending a predominantly white institution motivated her to become involved in the undergraduate Latinx organization in order to increase visibility and educate the student body about issues pertaining the Latinx community. Combining both her admiration for the environment and passion for educating her community, Cristina participated in an internship last summer with SoCal non-prot Heal The Bay where she wrote blogs on local environmental issues in Spanish. Her experiences as a Latina environmental science college student have inuenced her career goals of obtaining a PhD in natural resource management/conservation while improving outreach programming for her community.40LATINO HERITAGE INTERNSHIP PROGRAM2016 PROGRAM REPORT
KYLE MCGRADYChannel Islands National ParkKyle McGrady completed his degree in history at University of California Riverside in 2015. He nds American history, especially civilian life in the mid nineteenthcentury fascinating. Kyle will work closely with National Park Service sta and conservators on the preservation of historic structures.KAILEIGH MENDOZAFire Island National SeashoreKaileigh Mendoza is a senior at St. Joseph’s College in Patchogue, New York, where she is majoring in biology. She is interested in attending medical school and hopes to become a pediatric neurologist. Kaileigh will support interpretation and outreach eorts this summer.JESSICA MILLMANBlack Canyon of the Gunnison National ParkJessica Millman completed her degree in biology at Fort Lewis College in April. She has conducted research on butteries as an indicator species and is interested in conservation and restoration. Jessica will be doing eldwork in Colorado as a wilderness stewardship intern.CELESTE MONTAÑOIndependence Hall National Historic ParkCeleste Montaño learned to speak English at age six by reading every picture book she found at the public library. She continued to nurture an enthusiasm for reading and writing in the years that followed, eventually double majoring in English and Spanish at UCLA and graduating in 2015 with cum laude honors. Having grown up in the San Diego-Tijuana region, Montaño has developed a passion for learning about border identities and politics. Going forward, she hopes to continue exploring how latinx identities vary across the U.S. and enter the eld of translation.ANDREA MORENO-VASQUEZChesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historic ParkAndrea Moreno-Vasquez is from San Antonio, TX. and comes from Columbian Heritage. Andrea has always had a passion and interest in promoting healthy communities and advocating for health equity. She received her Bachelor’s of Science in Community Health at The University of Texas at San Antonio. She has served as an AmeriCorps member working to advance health education and enrollment in the Aordable Care Act in Baltimore, MD. It was this work that led her to attend Colorado State University where she obtained a Master’s in Public Health. Eager to return to the East Coast, she chose her LHIP placement at the C&O Canal in Potomac, MD. When she is not working at the park, Andrea enjoys making the lengthy, yet scenic, ride bike from Great Falls to Georgetown and is ever in search for the perfect ice cream.41LATINO HERITAGE INTERNSHIP PROGRAM2016 PROGRAM REPORT
JOYSKA NUÑEZ-MEDINAGeorge Washington Memorial ParkwayJoyska was born in Puerto Rico moved to Tampa, Florida at the age of 5. She received her B.A. in History with a minor in Theatre from North Carolina State University and is now pursuing an M.A. in Museum Studies from George Washington University with a concentration in Exhibition Development and Design. Growing up she frequently attended Boy Scout and Girl Scout events which cultivated a love of nature. She also has great passion for museums and history. Most of her research focuses on cultures and how those cultural products inuence society. She believes that museums are guardians of signicant cultural artifacts that need to be shared and hopes to provide the moving experience she feels in museums to others.LISSETE OCAMPOHomestead National Monument of AmericaLissete Ocampo completed her anthropology degree from Whittier College in 2015. She hopes to work in the archives eld with either a museum or historical society, and is currently working on a graduate degree in library and information science at San Jose State University.PAOLA PEREZFort Larned National Historic SitePaola Perez graduated from the University of Nebraska Omaha in 2015 with a B.A. in English and Chicano studies. She participated in LHIP in 2015, assisting with the oral history collection at Homestead Monument of America in Nebraska. Her internship this summer will involve interpreting the rich history.ASHLEYANN PEREZ RIVERABoston National Historical Park - Charlestown Navy YardAshleyann is a student at Roger Williams University where she is pursuing a Bachelors of Science in Historic Preservation, minoring in Sustainability and Art History. She was the President of the Multicultural Student Union and is the Coordinator for the Diversity Leadership program this upcoming semester. Her goal is to increase her experience working with diverse communities and developing strategies that encourage greater communication between decision makers and communities aected. Upon her completion at Roger Williams University she plans on enrolling in an Urban and regional policy program that oers a concentration in housing and community development where she can closely study the critical issues and methods necessary to implement successful programs and regulations that actively engage the greater community. In Boston she will be able to get some experience implementing new ideas and creative ways to engage the Latino community in the sites and programs outlined by the National Park Service.42LATINO HERITAGE INTERNSHIP PROGRAM2016 PROGRAM REPORT
BRENDA RAMIREZSanta Monica National Recreation AreaBrenda Ramirez was born and raised in Southern California. She is the rst in her family to go to college and received her bachelor’s degree in Environmental Studies with a minor in Feminism from the University of California Santa Barbara. Living next to a channelized river bed initiated her interest in natural and city issues. With the beach and other natural areas just a short walk away from campus, she gained a deeper appreciation for nature itself and realized how valuable having natural spaces nearby could be. She hopes to use her experiences and the knowledge she gains to not only spark a passion in others, but also to provide the tools and opportunities to make change as well.REBECCA RENTERIAWashington Support Oce, Archaeology ProgramRebecca Renteria is a graduate student in the Applied Archaeology (MA) program in the School of Anthropology and the Laboratory of Tree-Ring Research at the University of Arizona. She received her BS in anthropology with a focus on archaeological sciences and minor in geosciences also from the University of Arizona. Her research regards methods of identifying ethnicity, specically Hispanic and Anglo, in the archaeological record in her area of focus in western New Mexico during the homesteading and Dust Bowl eras. Rebecca is a LHIP intern working with high school students and educators through Linking Hispanic Heritage Through Archaeology in her hometown of Tucson, Arizona. This program aims to provide outdoor and university experiences to local students and educators through visits to archaeological sites and university labs and eld schools. She hopes to continue doing this type of program development locally and across the country with underserved communities with the goal of using archaeology as a platform for education, empowerment, and community-based cultural resource management.GRECIA RIVAS CHAVEZChesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historic ParkGrecia Rivas is originally from Nogales, Sonora Mexico. She moved to Tucson, Arizona when she was 3 years old. She is a rst generation college student and is currently studying at Western New Mexico University majoring in Graphic Design with a minor in Latin American and Latino Studies. Throughout her academic experience in art, she realized graphic design is an eective tool to raise awareness and produce social change. Grecia believes in educating and advocating for others in order to bring about change. She has been involved with M.E.Ch.A and in her community by working with Latinx students and their families to continue with their education. She hopes to one day be able to have her own advertising agency or become a teacher in Latino Studies to continue to study and pass down the history of her people and her culture.VICTORIA RODRIGUEZLasson Volcanic National ParkVictoria Rodriguez is pursuing degrees in both wildlife and religious studies at Humboldt State University in California. As a member of the Wilderness Stewardship Team, Victoria will be collecting eld data, banding birds, and interpreting the backcountry.43LATINO HERITAGE INTERNSHIP PROGRAM2016 PROGRAM REPORT
FERNANDO ROJASBrown vs. Board of Education National Historic SiteFernando Rojas is a sophomore at Yale University majoring in computer science and literature. He has an interest in the erasure of Latino narratives, and will be researching the Mendez v. Westminster court case for an exhibit.CORY ROSASCentennial Communication and Urban Outreach InternCory Rosas graduated from University of California Los Angeles with a degree in political science in June 2016. He has gained signicant experience in assisting high school and college students, which will inform his work as a communication and urban outreach intern for the National Park service Intermountain Region’s Youth Programs Division.SEBASTIÁN SALGADO FLORESSan Antonio Missions National Historical ParkSebastián is a Ph.D. candidate in the Anthropology program at the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA), where he is identifying samples of charred wood from Maya archaeological sites in Chiapas, Mexico for his dissertation on pre-Columbian forest-use. He has an M.A. from UTSA and a B.A. from the College of William and Mary in Virginia, both in Anthropology, and has taught introductory Archaeology courses at San Antonio community colleges for the past three semesters. He is a passionate believer in the National Parks Service goal of advancing conservation through education and public outreach and is excited to have the opportunity to help further that goal this summer through the LHIP.DANIEL SANCHEZGreat Smoky Mountains National ParkDaniel Sanchez is interested in architecture, Chicano/a studies, and art. He has worked as a park guide with the National Park Service, motivated his community to enjoy nature through Latino Outdoors, and applied his architecture skills to build projects to benet the community. He’ll be assisting with the preparation of National Register nominations this summer.JEANETTE SANCHEZWomen’s Rights National Historical ParkJeanette Sanchez completed her Bachelor’s degree in Archaeology and History, and has also completed a Master’s degree in History Museum Studies from the Cooperstown Graduate Program. She has an interest in diversifying public programming and visitorship at informal learning spaces, such as museums and National Parks.44LATINO HERITAGE INTERNSHIP PROGRAM2016 PROGRAM REPORT
DANIELA SIERRALowell National Historical ParkDaniela Sierra is a native of Lowell, MA home of the industrial revolution. Daniela is currently studying art history with a focus on museum studies at Lesley University in Cambridge, MA. She is excited to be working in her hometown National Park. Through her Latino Heritage internship she will be able to delve into the past of Lowell and learn about the industrial, economic, social factors that led to its rise and eventual demise. As well as the immigrant history and culture that surrounds it and truly composes the Lowell story.PAOLA SOLISFort Larned National Historical ParkRaised by two immigrant parents, Paola was the rst in her family to graduate from a 4-year university. During her attendance at University of California, Riverside, Paola pursued a B.S. in Anthropology and a minor in Political Science to satisfy her interests of learning about dierent cultures. At UC Riverside, Paola became a founder of Legends Community Service Group where the group participates in service events and operates an afterschool tutoring program for underprivileged high school students. Post-university, Paola has been working with Towards Maximum Independence, a non-prot organization, to provide services and to advocate for the disabled community. Through education and experience, Paola has become a believer of basic human rights, an advocate of breaking various societal barriers, and she has adopted a critical perspective that has helped her further understand her surroundings and the communities she’s a part of. In the future, Paola hopes she is able to provide resources, knowledge, and opportunities to underrepresented and disadvantaged communities.EDUARDO SORIANO Timucuan Ecological and Historical PreserveEduardo Soriano Guzman has been a lover of the outdoors since childhood. He was exposed to the outdoors, through local parks and soccer elds, which was a gateway for his love for nature. His experience with Groundwork Jacksonville fortied his passion for conservation. His passions is that he lives for hard work and change. Eduardo plans to attend a state college this fall and transfer to the University of Central Florida to major in Environmental Studies.YANERIS SOTO MUÑIZNPS Washington Support Oce, Oce of CommunicationsYaneris Soto Muñiz a native of Puerto Rico and a current undergraduate student at the University of Puerto Rico, Rio Piedras Campus. She moved to San Juan, the capital of the island, when she was 18 years old to pursue her bachelor’s degree in journalism. Formerly an artist, she spent her rst years in San Juan developing her skills in music and exploring dierent areas of studies at the university. She is now nishing her degrees in communications, English and environmental sciences. Yaneris is part of the Sierra Student Coalition, whose mission is to empower young people to take action over environmental and social justice, primarily. She loves art, spending time with family and friends, and exploring the world around her.45LATINO HERITAGE INTERNSHIP PROGRAM2016 PROGRAM REPORT
MELISSA VERGARALewis and Clark National Historical ParkMelissa Vergara is currently working on a degree in plant sciences at University of California Santa Cruz. Her previous experiences with Outward Bound Adventures has introduced her to importance of engaging underrepresented communities more fully in outdoor recreation.CRISTIAN VILLAGrand Canyon National ParkCristian Villa has worked with Albuquerque public school students for over three years and hopes to pursue a M.A. in special education after completing his geography degree. He will be working closely with National Park Service sta and high school interns this summerRAFAELLA WICKERSan Juan Islands National ParkRafaella Wicker was born in São Paulo, Brazil. In 1991 her family moved to the USA, calling Austin, Texas their new home. Once in the US her fascination with “cowboys and Indians” began to grow. It later ourished into a growing need to understand the mysteries of ancient peoples and cultural heritage. Currently, Rafaella is nishing a bachelors of science degree in Archaeology from Texas State University, focusing on Paleo-Indian studies. She hopes to attend graduate school, researching the rst migration patterns into the Americas. Her hobbies include, mineral hunting, scuba diving, hiking, and making new friends.MARTA ZAYASSan Juan National Historic SiteMarta Zayas, who was born and raised in Puerto Rico, enjoys learning about art and had the opportunity to interpret the works of Puerto Rican artist Antonio Martorell at the Museo de las Américas, located in Old San Juan. Marta is working on a graduate degree in art history and deaf women’s studies at the University of Puerto Rico. She has previously conducted research on the historic preservation of the Ordóñez Cannon at San Juan National Historic Site, making her an ideal intern to assist with interpretation and conservation eorts for the cannon and shells.46LATINO HERITAGE INTERNSHIP PROGRAM2016 PROGRAM REPORT