(PHOENIX, Ariz., Oct. 15, 2003) – Phoenix College recently teamed up with the City of Phoenix and other local business sponsors to host the Youth Leadership Conference 2003 – "Making the Connection." Approximately 400 high school students attended the all-day event, which included lectures with prominent guest speakers, educational workshops and local entertainment.

Throughout the event, students were encouraged and challenged to "Make the Connection" with their local community and schools utilizing the number of resources available to them at the conference. More than 20 informational booths were available, which allowed attendees an opportunity to talk with college officials and organizational leaders as well as gather vital information to help empower them with knowledge that they will need for the future.

Students also listened to keynote speakers like Stella Pope Duarte, author; Cecilia Hernandez, Bank of America; Dr. Corina Gardea, Phoenix College president and Raul Aguirre, REA Advertising. All keynote guests challenged students to pursue their goals and seek out the information that they need to succeed.

The Latino Institute hopes to encourage Arizona youth to see and value the importance of education. The Institute’s mission is "to enhance the quality of life for Latino communities through a collective effort that recognizes the richness of its culture, its contributions to society, and its challenges for the future."

Overall, the Latino Institute serves as a guide to help Latino students make successful connections so that they will one-day be future leaders, teachers, business professionals, mayors and presidents. Hosting the Latino Institute on the Phoenix College campus offered attendees exposure to the community college setting, which helps introduce them to the transition from high school to a campus setting.

The conference was presented by the City of Phoenix, Bank of America and Phoenix College. Additional sponsors included: Baja Fresh, APS, America West Airlines, La Voz, TV y Más and La Campesina.

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