Planning Committee
About the Planning Committee
DDLM is planned by a volunteer committee that is composed of students and community members. The committee is led by the Chairperson who is nominated and elected by the MSU Culturas de las Razas Unidas (CRU) Latine Student Organization at Michigan State University. Coordination of DDLM is supported by a staff member in the Office of Cultural and Academic Transitions (OCAT).
DDLM CHAIR
DDLM Committee
Aleida Martinez (she/her/ella)
Position at MSU: Student Services Coordinator
Why DDLM?: I joined the Día de la Mujer Conference committee because I am deeply passionate about empowering and uplifting women. Over the years, I’ve witnessed firsthand the transformative power of women supporting and uplifting each other. I firmly believe in creating spaces where women can thrive, share their knowledge, and celebrate their success. I’ve had the privilege of being involved with this conference in various capacities—both directly and indirectly—since my time as an undergraduate student. Its mission to amplify women’s voices and advocate for equal opportunities has always resonated with me. This committee reflects my values, and I am excited to contribute my energy and skills to its ongoing efforts, while also continuing to learn, grow, and make a meaningful impact within our community.
Adilene Martinez-Carmona (She/Her/Ella)
Major & Minor: Social Relations and Policy; Chicano/Latino Studies
Why DDLM?: I have previously attended and volunteered for the DDLM conference and to be on the planning side of things has been a great way to appreciate the conference even more!
Gisella Lorenzo
Position at MSU: Administrative Assistant at Migrant Student Services
Why DDLM? I wanted to join the Día de la Mujer committee because I believe in empowering and celebrating women and all of their accomplishments. Plus, who wouldn’t want to be surrounded by strong, inspiring women?
Heidi Quintero
Position at MSU: Office Coordinator for the Office of the Executive Vice President for Administration
Why DDLM?: During my undergraduate years at MSU, I had the honor of contributing to the Dia de la Mujer conference each year. Now, as a staff member, I’m excited to continue that work. This conference means so much to me personally, as it played a significant role in my decision to attend MSU. For the first time, I saw a space that not only recognized but celebrated the voices and experiences of Latina women—something I had never encountered before.
DDLM became a place where my voice, my story, and my culture were not just acknowledged but truly valued. Being on this committee now allows me the opportunity to create that same space for others—where Latinas can come together to share our experiences, challenges, and triumphs. It’s a chance to showcase our culture and celebrate our uniqueness, while also offering others the opportunity to learn about and understand our community.
My goal is to ensure this conference continues to be a space where we feel empowered, supported, and heard. It’s an honor to contribute to this tradition and help make it accessible for future generations of Latinas.
DDLM Coordinator
Juan Flores is a Coordinator in the Office of Cultural and Academic Transitions at Michigan State University. In this role, he serves as a coordinator for Student Success Initiatives, Annual Día de la Mujer Conference, Todos Organizados Para Cuidar Estudiantes (T.O.C.E.) Annual Scholarship, Annual Thanksgiving Day Fellowship Dinner, and Advisor to the Council of Racial Ethnic Students (C.O.R.E.S.) Culturas de las Raza Unidas (C.R.U.) Latino Student Organization. Juan Also serves as a Co-Instructor in the International Engagement in Mexico (I.E.M.) Study Abroad Spring Break program. Prior to his position in OCAT he worked for the College of Natural Science as a Preprofessional Academic Advisor. While in Graduate school, he spent 3 years working for MSU Migrant Student Services where he worked as an instructor for the High School Equivalency Program and Graduate assistant for the College Assistance Migrant Program. Juan received his Bachelor of Arts Degree in Criminal Justice and his Master of Arts in Clinical Social Work from Michigan State University. He was raised in Southwest Detroit and attended MSU by way of Southwestern High School. He enjoys traveling, meeting people of all cultures, DJing, video editing, Basketball, biking in the summer, Crafts, speaking Spanish, dancing, and is committed to helping students reach their full potential so they can become the best that they can be.