Several Marian University students and community guests attended the Indiana Latino Hispanic Heritage Luncheon on Friday, October 17, 2025, at the J.W. Marriott in downtown Indianapolis. The annual event, hosted by the Indiana Latino Institute, celebrates the leadership, impact, and achievements of Latino professionals across the state.
This year’s Rising Latino Stars awards recognized young leaders in their 20s, including Marian University alumna Alicia Cardona-Regalado, a Project Manager at the Indianapolis Bond Bank. Marian University sponsored a table for the luncheon, with guests including Rebecca Kubacki and Gabriel Alejandro, Managing Partner at PwC, along with students Lian Fernandez ‘27, Hanna Zapata ‘27, and Elias Martinez ‘27.
Olympic gold medalist Laurie Hernandez delivered the keynote address, sharing heartfelt insights about perseverance, overcoming obstacles, and the dedication required to achieve her goals. Marian University President Daniel J. Elsener said he appreciated Hernandez’s inspiring words, noting their importance for the university’s aspiring leaders.
The students who attended said they found Laurie’s story deeply motivating as they pursue their own goals and careers.
