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Tuesday, July 29, 2:00 p.m.

Neomi De Anda, Ph.D.
Associate Professor and Executive Director
International Marian Research Institute
University of Dayton

Abundancia, Esperanza y Liderazgo: A Marian Perspective
Through this high energy and engaging keynote participants will think more deeply about the fine line between leadership as overwhelming and thriving in leadership. Participants will apply theological concepts gleaned from Mary's Magnificat and Santa Maria de la Aparecida for leadership on their campuses and beyond.

Neomi De Anda, Ph.D. serves as the Executive Director for the International Marian Research Institute. She is also a tenured Professor (as of July 1, 2025) in the University of Dayton Department of Religious Studies. She teaches courses in religion, languages and cultures, Latinx and Latin American studies, race and ethnic studies, and women and gender studies. She is a Marianist Educational Associate. Dr. De Anda is a Catholic Lay Marianist and part of the Micah Theotokos Marianist Lay Community. 
 
Dr. De Anda holds a Ph.D. in Constructive Theology from Loyola University Chicago.  She also has master’s degrees in Theology (Oblate School of Theology) and Educational Leadership (St. Mary’s University). Dr. De Anda has scholarly presentations, publications and exhibitions on her research interests of Mary and breast milk; chisme; LatinoXa Christology; migrations in conjunction with the Marianist Social Justice Collaborative Immigrant Justice Team. She maintains a commitment to a border theology at the intersections of the environment, migrations, labor, and women because of her roots in El Paso, Texas. Dr. De Anda hosts the Chisme Symposium at the University of Dayton. Learn more at .

Wednesday, July 30, 10:30 a.m.

From Campus to "Casa": Cultivating Latinx Student Pathways to Thriving
This keynote panel will present key findings from a national research study commissioned by the PASOS Network and led by Springtide Research Institute on the experiences of Latino/a students in Catholic Campus Ministries. Presenters will discuss findings, share best practices, and develop actional strategies to enhance engagement and support for Latino/a students within college campus ministries. We hope to inspire transformative change that will enrich their spiritual and educational experiences by equipping campus ministers and others working with Latino/a students to identify various pathways to thriving.
 

Liza Manjarrez
Senior Associate Director, Campus Ministry
St. Edward’s University 

Andrew J. Mercado
Director, University Ministry
Dominican University 

Nabil Tueme, Ph.D.
Senior Research Associate
Springtide Research Institute

Wednesday, July 30, 2:00 p.m. 

Gabe Lara, Ed.D.
Vice President, Student Success and Engagement
Dominican University

Be the Vibe: Elevate Your Game with Courageous Followership!
Join the movement to uplift your community with faith-driven courage and empower your circle to make a real impact!
 
We will explore the transformative power of courageous followership in creating uplifting and empowering communities. Learn how embracing a faith-driven approach can inspire you to step beyond traditional leadership roles and become dynamic supporters and catalysts for change. 
 
Through engaging discussions, real-life examples, and interactive activities, you will discover the importance of fostering a culture of encouragement and collaboration. This will emphasize the significance of lifting each other up and using our collective strengths to navigate challenges. 
 
As we delve into strategies for cultivating a community grounded in faith and unity, expect to gain practical tools to empower your circle and ignite hope in your surroundings. Let’s elevate our game and create a lasting impact by living our values with purpose and passion!

Dr. Gabe Lara is the Vice President of Student Success & Engagement at Dominican University, serving as the Chief Student Affairs Officer, a position he has held since January 2024. Dr. Lara embodies the theme "Igniting Hope, Cultivando Liderazgo," leveraging nearly two decades of progressive experience in higher education to foster transformative leadership and resilience within diverse communities.
 
Before joining Dominican, Dr. Lara was Dean of Student Affairs at the College of Lake County, where he enhanced student engagement and created the first Latinx Resource Center. Previously, he served as Director of Hispanic-Latinx Affairs at the University of Florida, overseeing key initiatives and spaces for Latinx students. He also directed the Casa Latina Cultural Center at Western Illinois University, strengthening the Latinx community.
 
Dr. Lara holds an Ed.D. in Organizational Leadership from Southeastern University, an M.A. in Management & Leadership from Webster University, and a B.A. in Spanish/Sociology from Western Illinois University.