Our Mission

The mission of ISLA is to actively promote and nurture the interdisciplinary study of Latin America – its languages, literature, arts, and cultures; its politics, societies, and economies; its geography and environment – on the Baruch campus. Based in the Weissman School of Arts and Sciences (WSAS), ISLA aims to engage Baruch’s students, faculty, staff, and alumni and our local community in academic, co-curricular, and public programming that enhances the understanding and appreciation of this vital world region. 

ISLA Honors Valentín Lizana y Parragué

ISLA is made possible by the generosity of Mrs. Hedwig Feit, whom we thank for her longstanding commitment to Baruch and its students, and is dedicated to the memory of her beloved grandfather, Valentín Lizana y Parragué.

A progressive and liberal thinker, Valentín Lizana y Parragué, of Chile, sought to improve the life of the poor through social programs, education, and land reform. His strong sense of patriotism and humanitarianism meant that he always put the needs of others above his own.

Hedy Feit has shared a moving tribute to the inauguration of Chile’s new president, Gabriel Boric, on March 11, 2022, available here.

Meet the Staff 

Dr. Stephanie R. Golob
Director, Initiative for the Study of Latin America
Chair and Associate Professor, Department of Political Science​
Faculty Advisor, Latin American and Caribbean Studies (LACS) Minor and
Affiliated Faculty, Department of Black and Latinx Studies (BLS)

Jayleen Hernandez
Coordinator of Student Affairs for the Initiative of the Study of Latin America
BA’ 25

Pamela Morales
Digital Director for the Initiative of the Study of Latin America, Transfer Student Peer Mentor, Vice President of the Transfer Student Organization
BA’24

Laisha De Leon
President of Student Advisory Board for the Initiative of the Study of Latin America, Percy E. Sutton SEEK Peer Mentor
BA’26

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