In a touching graduation ceremony on February 26th, the National Latino Education Institute (NLEI) conferred certificates of completion to students in three of its career-track programs and its GED Equivalency course. Students in the Phlebotomy, Bilingual Medical Assistant and Medical Office Specialist programs were acknowledged for their merits in completing their respective programs.

Over 110 guests joined in the celebration and applauded during motivational remarks from several speakers. Keynote Speaker and Cook County Commissioner Jesús García (7th Dist.) recalled how Spanish Coalition for Jobs, the predecessor to NLEI, helped him land a job as a paralegal during the early days of his career in public service.

Rosalinda Melgoza, a graduate of the Bilingual Medical Assistant program, spoke glowingly for the graduating class and commented on her return to NLEI after having completed an office training program at SCJ. “I came back and I’m so glad I did,” said Melgoza.

Telemundo Chicago metereologist Maricela Vazquez served as the evening’s mistress of ceremonies. She encouraged the graduates to pursue opportunities in their chosen fields without hesitation.

“At these significant ceremonies for our organization, we are reminded why we work at NLEI,” said Elba Aranda-Suh, the organization’s Executive Director. “We see the fruits of our labor in the faces of hope in the families of our students.

Graduates will receive support on their job search from NLEI’s Employment Services Department, which helps NLEI students and other find vacancies, prepare for job interviews and refine their resumes. The Institute’s next cycle for the Medical Office Assistant and Bilingual Medical Assistant programs begins on March 24th. For more information on registration and admission to NLEI, call Ms. Diana Salgado at (773) 247-0707, extension 223.