MEET THE TEAM
Meet the Staff
ADMINISTRATION
Administration
Administration
Luis Duarte
Luis Duarte is the Executive Director of the Latin American Recruitment and Educational Services (LARES) program at the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) and has been a member of the UIC community for over 26 years. He holds a B.A. from De Paul University and an M.A. from Northeastern Illinois University. As a passionate higher education advocate representing the needs of the Latino community, Luis has co-chaired numerous campus committees including the Chancellor’s Committee on the Status of Latinos (CCSL) and the Latino Committee on University Affairs (LCUA); has served as a board member for the Illinois Latino Council on Higher Education (ILACHE); a statewide organization dedicated to Latino progress through the development of educational programs, facilitation of leadership, identification of best practices, and focused on advocacy, policy reform in higher education. ILACHE provides a forum for educators, community representatives, and other supporters to improve the educational, professional, and social advancement of Latinos.
Iliana Miranda
Iliana Miranda is an Associate Director of the Latin American Recruitment and Educational Services (LARES) program at the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC). She holds a B.A. in English from UIC and a Master’s in Social Work with a specialization in Mental Health from UIC’s Jane Addams College of Social Work. Upon completing her undergraduate studies, she joined the College Advising Corps (CAC) to help underrepresented high school students access higher education. Iliana joined UIC in 2012, first as a College Access Advisor, then as a LARES Academic Advisor and Program Specialist. As a LARES Academic Advisor, recipient of the Provost’s Excellence in Undergraduate Advising Award, and with her social work background, Iliana embodies the mission of LARES by empowering diverse student populations.
Mitzi Ramos
Dr. Mitzi Ramos was a double major who received a B.A. in English Literature & Language and Foreign Languages & Literature (concentration in Spanish) from Western Illinois University. She also holds a M.P.A. from Southern Illinois University at Carbondale and a Ph.D. in Political Science from the University of Illinois Chicago.
For almost two decades, Dr. Ramos served as the LARES English Academic Skills Specialist. In addition to helping students with their writing needs, she taught supplemental English courses for those struggling with their writing and those interested in conducting advanced research to be showcased at academic and professional conferences. Today, she serves as the Associate Director of Graduate Student Professional & Career Development. Along with preparing students for graduate school through advanced writing and research courses, she spearheads initiatives and programming aimed at strengthening the graduate school pipeline for Latino students.
Fun Fact: Dr. Ramos is an unabashed Austenite, cat lover, and tattoo aficionado. She is also a proud Sigma Kappa who enjoys spending time with family and following her favorite bands – 311 and Bayside.
Marilyn Díaz
Marilyn Díaz holds a B.A. in Communication from the University of Illinois Chicago. Not only does she have an extensive background in higher education and community outreach stemming from her work creating a college-going culture throughout underserved communities, but Marilyn’s previous role as an admissions officer has allowed her to work with students across Chicago and Puerto Rico in facilitating their transition into higher education. As someone who has experienced the challenges faced by first generation students, Marilyn is passionate about empowering the next generation of Latino leaders and strives to provide her students with the guidance, tools, and community needed to succeed.
Fun Fact: Marilyn is a seasoned traveler, fitness addict, and self-care enthusiast.
Daisy Lemus
Daisy Lemus holds a B.A. in Psychology and M.A. in Social Work from the University of Illinois Chicago. Daisy has a deep passion for youth development which stems from both personal and professional experiences. As a proud UIC alumna, she shares her experiences with students in order to provide insightful information and guidance aimed at helping them achieve their academic and professional goals. Recognizing that every student’s academic journey is unique, Daisy caters her services to ensure that all are provided with the necessary tools, resources, and support needed to succeed.
Fun Fact: While doing volunteer work in in Lima, Peru, she had the opportunity to hike Machu Picchu. While she refuses to go on roller coasters, she has gone skydiving!
ADMINISTRATIVE SUPPORT STAFF
Administrative Support Staff
STAFF
Maricela Castañeda
Maricela Castañeda holds a B.A. in Urban & Regional Planning from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and a M.A. in Urban Planning and Policy with a concentration in Community Development from the University of Illinois Chicago. While she may have begun her LARES tenure as the Latino Committee on University Affairs Graduate Assistant, her work ethic and stellar performance led her to be offered the position of Events Administrator Associate. In this capacity, Maricela is responsible for producing marketing material for the program and planning LARES events designed to recognize Latino achievements, successes, and leadership. Her passion revolves around helping the Latino community gain access to the necessary resources needed to become agents of change.
Fun Fact: Maricela enjoys spending time with her husband and 3 young children, attending White Sox games, engaging in crafting and DIYing projects, and partaking in all that the city has to offer.
ADVISORS
Academic Advisors
Advisors
Jesus Ballesteros
Jesús Ballesteros holds a Bachelor of Science in Clinical / Community Psychology and Communication from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. During his time at UIUC, Jesús became involved in a number of student groups including the Illinois-Coalition Assisting Undocumented Students’ Education (I-CAUSE), La Casa Cultural Latina’s A.C.E Mentorship program, and La Unidad Latina, Lambda Upsilon Lambda Fraternity, Inc. Through this involvement, Jesús discovered his passion for helping students achieve success in higher education. As a first-generation Latino student himself, Jesús understands the hardships that come with higher education and the need for academic support from your community.
Fun Fact: Jesús loves soccer and his favorite teams are Chivas, Manchester United, and Real Madrid. He has a cat named Gansito and enjoys his annual visits to Mexico.
jballe7@uic.edu
Connect with Jesús!
Victor Brito
Victor Brito holds an A.A. from McHenry County College and a B.A. in Sociology with a double minor in Latino Studies and Urban Studies from Illinois State University. Victor’s commitment to understanding the complexities of society and its diverse cultural landscapes, in addition to his passion for guiding others through their academic journey, has led him to a fulfilling career in higher education guiding and mentoring students. Throughout his professional journey, he has dedicated himself to supporting students in navigating the challenges of college life. Victor is also a first-generation Latino college student who understands the higher education obstacles faced by many Latino students and their parents. By sharing his experiences and insights, Victor aims to help the next generation navigate the complexities of higher education, ensuring they have the resources and support needed for success.
Fun Fact: Victor loves to play soccer – especially Sunday leagues. He also enjoys hiking, Marvel, Star Wars, and playing baraja with his family.
vbrito@uic.edu
Connect with Victor!
Celina Hernandez
Celina Hernández holds a BA in Sociology and Latin American & Latino Studies from the University of Illinois Chicago. Celina’s interest in higher education were sparked after conducting research through LARES’ ASP research course where she examined retention rates for first-generation Latino college students. Upon completing her study, Celina continued to refine her research skills through various research initiatives including the Urban Public Policy Fellowship, Summer Research Opportunities Program, and the Graduate Pathways to Success.
Celina’s passion for education and the advancement of students led her to return to UIC to serve as an Admissions Counselor for the UIC Office of Admissions. In this role, Celina worked with Chicago area high school students as they planned their post-secondary journey. As a Chicago native and Chicago Public Schools graduate, Celina enjoys working with students and strives to use her role as a LARES Academic Advisor & Program Specialist to continue providing students with the support needed to navigate the higher education pipeline.
Fun Fact: Celina loves being outdoors and particularly enjoys hiking and running. Having recently completed a half marathon, Celina is excited to begin training for the Chicago Marathon.
Connect with Celina!
Daisy Medina
Daisy Medina holds a Bachelor’s of Science in Business Management from the University of Illinois Chicago. As an undergraduate student, Daisy utilized LARES’ advising services and credits the program for her successful matriculation. Upon graduating, Daisy stayed connected to UIC by volunteering to take part in the College of Business First-Year New Student Onboarding. During her time there, she met with incoming students and provided them with tips aimed at improving their networking skills. Prior to joining the LARES program as a Pre-Health Academic Advisor, Daisy worked at Chicago Scholars; a non-profit organization that helps first-generation and low-income students enroll and complete their college education.
Fun Fact: Daisy is into Astrology, enjoys playing board games, and is an avid foodie who enjoys exploring Chicago’s local restaurants!
Connect with Daisy!
Eduardo Mendoza
Eduardo “Eddie” Mendoza holds a Bachelor’s in Social Work from Northeastern Illinois University and a Master’s in Social Work with a concentration in Children and Families from the University of Illinois Chicago. In addition to having extensive experience working to help first generation and underrepresented students navigate the higher education pipeline, Eddie is also deeply committed to helping students overcome barriers impeding their academic success and career aspirations. As the first member in his family to graduate from college, he understands the struggles and obstacles this particular student body experience first-hand. To Eddie, it is an honor to guide students through their educational journey as he himself was supported throughout his college experience.
Fun Fact: Eddie traveled to Hawaii and visited the Island of O’ahu. During his trip, he immersed himself in the Polynesian culture, partook in various local dishes, and enjoyed snorkeling with sea turtles.
Connect with Eddie!
Lili Velazquez
Lili Velazquez holds a B.A. in Sociology and Latin American & Latino Studies from the University of Illinois Chicago and an M.A. in College Student Personnel from Western Illinois University. Lili has over 9 years of experience working with first-generation college students and is a proud first-generation student herself. During her time at UIC, Lili was involved in several organizations and opportunities including the Urban Public Policy Fellowship where she examined Latino higher education recruitment, retention, and graduation trends. This research fueled Lili’s passion for higher education and led her to work in various college-access and student support roles, including serving as a College Advisor for the College Advising Corps, an Academic Advisor for TRIO, and a College Access Associate for Evanston Scholars. Through these positions, Lili has manifested a strong commitment to guiding students on their educational journey. Not only does she provide students with the tools and resources needed to advocate for themselves, but she continuously encourages them to step out of their comfort zones.
Fun Fact: Lili loves board games – especially Monopoly. She loves dancing and has trained in ballet, tap, jazz, and folkloric dance.
evelaz4@uic.edu
Connect with Lili!
ASP Instructors / Professional Tutors
ASP Instructors / Professional Tutors
ASP Instructors / Professional Tutors
Dr. Terrance Mankus
Dr. Terrance “Terry” Mankus holds a B.S., M.S. and Ph.D. in Mathematics from the University of Illinois Chicago. As the LARES Math Academic Skills Specialist, a position he had held for close to 20 years, Dr. Mankus is not only responsible for tutoring students with their mathematics needs, but also teaching a series of supplemental Math courses for the LARES program. During the summer months, he serves as the Math Instructor for the Hispanic Center of Excellence’s Latino Health Science Enrichment Program.
Fun Fact: Dr. Mankus played hockey both at the collegiate level representing UIC and at the semi-professional level. He also plays golf, exercises, watches TV, and enjoys telling really “good” jokes.
Dr. Jose Ortiz
José Ortíz holds a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry and is currently wrapping up a Doctorate in Organic Chemistry from the University of Illinois Chicago. His interest in chemistry began in high school and continued growing throughout his undergraduate studies. As an undergraduate student, Jose conducted organic chemistry research focused on the synthesis of the alkaloid (±)-Dysibetaine through the Summer Research Opportunity Program (SROP), in addition to a gambit of additional studies through the Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation research program. However, his curiosity in the sciences also took him beyond the typical laboratory. As a Chicago Historical Society museum fellow, Jose took his chemistry background and translated his knowledge to help with the conservation, preservation, and restoration of historic artifacts. In addition, he not only identified materials which could be utilized in displays and exhibits to further protect these precious items, but he created manuals outlining the protocol necessary to ensure the preservation of these artifacts.
Jose has been part of the LARES family for almost a decade and serves as the program’s chemistry tutor. He has also worked as a private tutor for over fifteen years. In this role, he not only provides chemistry tutoring to high school and undergraduate students, but he also helps students prepare for the math and science portion of the ACT/SAT exams. Jose is a passionate and devoted tutor. Satisfaction is derived from not only seeing the sparks in the eyes of students when they begin grasping the material, but also when they apply the concepts covered to real life applications. He strives to make chemistry fun and enjoyable in order to diminish misconceptions that chemistry is too difficult to grasp.
His goal as a chemistry tutor is to help every student achieve their goals and dreams – whether they be in the sciences, the health field, or any other area that requires a chemistry background.
Fun Fact: José loves coffee – any temperature – and will drink it at all hours of the day. He also enjoys Sudoku puzzles, forensic and mystery programs, and long distance drives.