EP139: Meet Noemi Y. Perez, President & CEO of The Immokalee Foundation — A 2024 Example of Excelencia

In The Margins

Created in 2005 by Excelencia in Education, Examples of Excelencia is a national initiative that identifies and promotes evidence-based practices improving Latinx student success in higher education. This year, The Immokalee Foundation was chosen as the Example of Excelencia at the community-based organization level, for its Career Pathways: Empowering Students to Succeed program.

In this episode, we welcome Noemi Y. Perez, President & CEO of The Immokalee Foundation.

Join Perez and Diverse host Ralph Newell as they discuss the transformative impact of The Immokalee Foundation’s work in creating tools, opportunities, and support systems to help students succeed—whether they pursue college, technical programs, or certifications. Perez also shares her insights on guiding students through multiple educational pathways and the importance of fostering long-term success.

The 2024 Examples of Excelencia being recognized at the associate, baccalaureate, and graduate levels will also be featured on In The Margins.

KEY POINTS:

- Perez’s deep personal connection to Immokalee Foundation and dedication to serving her community.

- The foundation’s evolution from grant-making to providing direct career pathway programs.

- Comprehensive support for students from K-12 to post-secondary, including literacy, career readiness, and certification opportunities.

- How the Career Pathways program helps students identify interests and develop action plans starting in 6th grade.

- Innovative partnerships that offer hands-on training and job opportunities for students.

- Holistic support addressing broader community needs, including mental health, meals, and essential resources.

- Noemi’s vision to expand service in Immokalee and explore duplicating the foundation’s model in other communities.

QUOTABLES:

“Our kids, all they want is an opportunity. Give them an opportunity—and they're going to soar.” – Noemi Y. Perez

“We want to make sure that we're not identifying that pathway for the student. We want to make sure it's their decision.” – Noemi Y. Perez

“For us, the sky's the limit. We're very innovative. Again, it's all about the success for our students.” – Noemi Y. Perez

GUEST RESOURCES:

Noemi Y. Perez

The Immokalee Foundation

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In The Margins is produced by Diverse: Issues In Higher Education and edited by EPYC Media Network (visit at https://www.epyc.co/).