By/ Myrna Mendez
MANA de Metro Detroit recently held its Annual Brindis Luncheon (the name comes from brindar: to toast ceremoniously in honor of someone). This event serves multiple purposes, as a fundraiser to support MANA programs and scholarships and as a means to publicly recognize outstanding individuals in our community. MANA’s Scholarship Program was established in 1996 and has been providing scholarships for Latina women on an annual basis. As of 2022, MANA has awarded 138 scholarships to young women who are pursuing educational, leadership or entrepreneurship dreams. This year’s scholarship recipients are: MANA de Metro Detroit Scholarships: • Tania Almanza, Albion College • America Cruz, Henry Ford College • Aracely Garcia, CMU Nubia Hernandez, WSU • Nancy Melissa Jimenez-Solis, U of M, Ann Arbor • Elizabeth Lupercio, WSU Alejandra Padilla-Miguel, MSU Kimberly Pineda, U of D Mercy • Yazmin Raya-Castillo, WSU Maria Talamantes, WSU Adamari Torres, U of M, Ann Arbor Carmen Munoz Entrepreneurship Scholarship: • Yahaira David, WSU Monica L. Martinez Leadership Scholarship: • Jazmin Medina-Ruiz, WC3 • Diana Talamantes-Valles, MSU The Brindis Luncheon also recognized Latinas whose spirit, courage and perseverance demonstrate their commitment to our community.
These are women with a purpose, a dream, and determination and well deserving of the Adelita Award (named after the dedicated women who fought in the Mexican Revolution). Receiving the 2022 Adelita Award are: • Dr. Sandra M. Gonzales Professor Wayne State University • Helena Lazo Educator • Diana Ortega General Motors • Linzie Venegas Ideal Steel Group MANA presented the first “Amigo of the Year” Award to Dr. Juan Jose Martinez, not only in recognition of his commitment to provide educational excellence to the youth of Southwest Detroit, but also as a strong supporter of MANA and its programs. In addition, MANA bestowed a Posthumous Award to the 1st “MANO”, Senor German Rosas in memory of his leadership, wisdom and friendship to MANA. MANA wishes to thank all the continued support from our corporate sponsors: MGM Grand Detroit, Ambassador Bridge, Comerica Bank, Meijer, DTE Energy, The Leona Group, LLC, SER Metro-Detroit, Wayne State University, MCA Detroit, GM, Ideal Group, Detroit Hispanic Development Corporation, and PMA Consultants. Money raised from the Brindis Luncheon goes toward supporting MANA’s programs and scholarships.
