Last Call: Join Us This Saturday for Edu-Family 2026!
Calling All Emerging Leaders Program Alumni: Join Our New Alumni Network!
Emerging Leaders Program: ELP-III Class of 2026 Graduates in Powerful Ceremony at Deloitte
GED Certification Program Celebrates Third Graduating Class
Línea Directa Wins Emmy Award for Best Health/Medical Program
30 Parents Graduate from Coates Family Academy
Edu-Futuro Joins Regional Conversations on Artificial Intelligence and Digital Equity
Congratulations to Arlington Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Francisco Durán!
AmeriCorps Corner: Farewell to Anthony Torrelio González
Health & Wellness: Youth Vaping: Progress Worth Celebrating But the Fight Is Far from Over
Last Call: Join Us This Saturday for Edu-Family 2026!
There's still time to register for Edu-Family 2026, taking place this Saturday, July 18, at the George Mason University Fairfax Campus -- but don't wait! We look forward to welcoming nearly 500 students, parents, volunteers, educators, and community partners for a full day of activities designed to help students prepare for college and future careers, while their parents gain valuable strategies on financial planning, navigating the education system, and supporting their children's academic journeys. For many families, Edu-Family will be their first visit to a college campus — and the first step toward imagining higher education as an achievable goal. Also, don’t miss our first ever Job Fair, where local businesses will provide information about employment opportunities available for our parents and students.
We are also extremely proud that Virginia Congressman James Walkinshaw will join us this year at approximately 9:45 a.m., when he will address our students and parents. Since September 2025, Congressman Walkinshaw has represented the 11th Congressional District, which includes most of Fairfax County and the entirety of the City of Fairfax.
Edu-Futuro would like to recognize and thank our longstanding Edu-Family partners, including George Mason University, Deloitte, Clifford Chance, and Guidehouse, whose continued support, volunteers, and expertise help make this event possible year after year.
Registration for Edu-Family 2026 is still open, but space is limited! We hope you will join us for an inspiring day of learning, discovery, and opportunity as we celebrate the belief that college dreams are built by the whole family. Please remember that students and parents need to register separately! We are also still welcoming registrations from volunteers who would like to help make Edu-Family a success. Register today using the buttons below, or by sending a WhatsApp message to (571) 309-5455.
Calling All Emerging Leaders Program Alumni: Join Our New Alumni Network!
Edu-Futuro is proud to announce the official launch of our Emerging Leaders Program Alumni Network, a community for former participants of our youth programs. Members of the Alumni Network will have access to:
- Professional Networking Opportunities: Connect with other alumni, Edu-Futuro Associate Council members, and industry professionals! Whether you are job searching, launching a venture, or simply expanding your circle, your Edu-Futuro network is here to support you.
- Volunteer Opportunities: Give back to the next generation of Emerging Leaders by supporting our events and outreach efforts. Your story has the power to inspire others the way you were once inspired.
- Social Events & Gatherings: Reconnect with familiar faces and make new friendships at exclusive alumni mixers and community events hosted throughout the year.
Joining the Alumni Network is simple and completely free. Just scan the QR code in the invitation above, or click here to complete your registration. We would also love to see you at our inaugural networking social, scheduled for Thursday, July 23 from 6:30-9:00 pm at Guapo’s Merrifield (3052 Gate House Plaza, Falls Church, VA 22042). Ten percent of the proceeds from the event will be donated to support Edu-Futuro.
To confirm your attendance at the alumni networking social, or if you have any questions about the Alumni Network, please contact Mariana Balgurevich, Volunteer Coordinator, at volunteer@edu-futuro.org.
Emerging Leaders Program:
ELP-III Class of 2026 Graduates in Powerful Ceremony at Deloitte
On Friday, June 5, 2026, Edu-Futuro celebrated the graduation of 38 college students from the Emerging Leaders Program: ELP-III, at the Arlington headquarters of the global consulting firm Deloitte. A key part of the ELP educational continuum, which begins in middle school, ELP-III supports first-generation college students as they navigate the challenges of higher education, pairing each participant with a dedicated mentor who provides guidance through their first years of college.
The Class of 2026 distinguished itself not only through academic achievement, but also through a deep commitment to serving others. This summer, approximately 80% of our ELP-III graduates are participating in internships, volunteer service, employment, or research opportunities at such organizations as George Mason University, Virginia Hospital Center, Youth Leadership Foundation, Goodwin House, Contigo Youth Club, Cornerstone Advisor Group, and AGE Solutions.
This commitment to service builds upon the leadership many students demonstrated throughout the year by serving as judges for the ELP-I Essay and ELP STEM Robotics competitions; speaking with ELP-I participants during college tours to the University of Virginia, the College of William & Mary, and James Madison University; and volunteering during Edu-Futuro's annual community soccer tournament. Two members of the graduating class — Sofia Himko and Natalia Solano — also inspired guests at Edu-Futuro's 28th Anniversary Gala by sharing the story of their educational journeys and the role ELP played in helping them achieve their goals. Another new graduate, Carol Buendia Villanueva, even delivered a presentation in favor of expanded after-school programming before the Arlington County School Board.
"I am beyond excited and proud of all the students that successfully graduated from ELP-III this year,” said Edu-Futuro College & Career Access Specialist, Edison Aponte. “To see how so many of them grew and developed confidence throughout their year in college was such a rewarding experience for not only me as a mentor, but for the students themselves. Every single one took a huge step towards becoming a highly effective student."
A standout moment during this year's graduation ceremony was the presentation of the inaugural Evelyn Aponte Scholarship. Evelyn, who happens to be Edison’s daughter, served as Edu-Futuro's College & Career Access Specialist and ELP-III mentor from 2022 to 2024. Today, she works as Senior Manager of the High School Leadership Program at the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute. Inspired by a deep commitment to expanding educational opportunity, Evelyn established an annual scholarship fund to support future ELP-III scholars. During the ceremony, she presented the first $2,000 scholarship award to Betzy Romero, winner of Edu-Futuro's 2026 Essay Competition and a student at Notre Dame of Maryland University.
As the Class of 2026 moves forward with confidence, ELP-III continues to demonstrate the transformative power of sustained mentorship, educational opportunity, and community. More importantly, these graduates leave not only with the knowledge and resilience to succeed in college and future careers, but also with a lasting commitment to opening doors for the next generation of Edu-Futuro students.
To learn more about ELP-III and Edu-Futuro's other free youth programs, please contact Susana Carpio, Youth Programs Team Lead, at youthprograms@edu-futuro.org. Edu-Futuro’s Emerging Leaders Program is supported in part by grants from the Verizon Foundation, the Dominion Energy Charitable Foundation, and the Marinus and Minna B. Koster Foundation.
GED Certification Program Celebrates Third Graduating Class
Edu-Futuro celebrated a milestone achievement on Saturday, June 6, 2026, as 31 students earned their official High School Equivalency (HSE) Certificate from the Commonwealth of Virginia, marking the third graduating cohort since our GED Certification Program was launched in June 2023. More than 150 relatives and friends joined the celebration at Marymount University, honoring the hard work and determination of participants who devoted nearly a year to achieving their shared goal of building brighter futures for themselves and their families.
In addition to celebrating the accomplishments of the 31 graduates, the ceremony also recognized 40 students who successfully completed the Science module of the GED Certification Program. Throughout the year, participants complete coursework in Science, Mathematics, Language Arts, and Social Studies — the four subject areas required to earn Virginia's HSE credential.
This year's ceremony was among the most diverse and meaningful since the program began, with graduates representing nine different countries: a reflection of our program's growing reach across Northern Virginia's immigrant community. The celebration also recognized two couples who graduated side by side: Marvin Chicas and Ingri González, and Paola Iglesias and Erik Barrancos. Their shared achievement served as a powerful reminder that education has the ability to strengthen entire families while opening doors to new opportunities.
"The GED program at Edu-Futuro has marked a milestone in my own life because every class allows me to witness the resilience, reinvention, and transformation of each participant," said Mildrek Bastidas, Edu-Futuro’s GED Instructor and Workforce Development Specialist. "What I love most is seeing graduates continue striving for even more after earning their High School Equivalency Certificate. They discover that navigating the educational and professional systems in the United States is possible, recognize the many opportunities before them, and continue investing in their own growth with renewed confidence."
This year, several of our GED students distinguished themselves through exceptional academic performance. At just 22 years old, Edelmira Sayjama earned college credit across all four GED subject areas. Yulis Leiva completed two subjects at the college-ready level and earned college credit in the remaining two. Inspired by her own educational journey, Greter Cruz, whose passion for mathematics flourished during the program, returned as a volunteer to provide basic math instruction for students enrolled in the Fall 2025 cohort.
The GED graduation ceremony also welcomed several inspiring guests whose presence underscored the program's growing community impact. Shanteny Jackson, Executive Director of the Virginia Community Health Workers Association, shared that five graduates from the Winter 2025 cohort later became certified Community Health Workers through the association's eight-week training program, earning scholarships along the way. Dr. Glenda Thomas, founder of VeneSalud Primary Care in Arlington, Virginia, delivered a deeply personal address, sharing her own journey as an immigrant who overcame significant obstacles to become the successful physician she is today. Her message reminded graduates that determination, perseverance, and education can transform lives.
The ceremony also recognized the volunteers and alumni whose leadership helps sustain the GED program from one cohort to the next, including Ding-Lynn Ledgard, who has supported the initiative since October 2024; Miranda Quintero, a high school student who assisted with in-person mathematics instruction and contributed materials to the Social Studies curriculum; Karina Pozo, an alumna who mentors current students by sharing study strategies and exam preparation tips; and Gerardo Altuve, a member of this graduating class who has already begun mentoring new participants.
For many students and families, the impact of the GED Certification Program extends far beyond the classroom. Just days before the ceremony, graduate Bárbara López shared the following message with her instructor: "I am telling you that I already have my childcare license, thanks to God and my GED achievement. Thank you for always supporting us so we wouldn't give up. I thank you from the bottom of my heart."
Stories like Bárbara's remind us that a GED is far more than a diploma. For many immigrant adults, earning a High School Equivalency Certificate represents new career opportunities, greater financial stability, and the confidence to pursue dreams that once seemed out of reach. To learn more about Edu-Futuro's GED program, please contact Mildrek Bastidas, GED Instructor & Workforce Development Specialist, at ged@edu-futuro.org.
Línea Directa Wins Emmy Award for Best Health/Medical Program
Edu-Futuro is delighted to share the news that Línea Directa, Edu-Futuro’s public service television series, received an Emmy Award at the 68th Annual Capital Emmy Awards Gala, held on June 20, 2026. The honor represents the fourth Emmy Award earned by Edu-Futuro in the past three years, underscoring our longstanding commitment to serving families through trusted, informative, and impactful Spanish-language programming.
This year, Línea Directa was honored with the Emmy in the Best Health/Medical Program category, for a show focusing on the millions of women who suffer from the painful disease, endometriosis. Conceptualized and produced by Línea Directa Host and Edu-Futuro Communications Coordinator, Andrea Sarralde, the program presented the moving story of journalist Stefani Gamboa, who recounted her challenges dealing with endometriosis and the far-reaching consequences of the disease on her professional and personal life.
“This Emmy Award is more than a recognition of our work — it is a celebration of the voices, resilience, and stories of the communities we serve,” said Andrea. “At Edu-Futuro, we believe storytelling has the power to educate, inspire, and create lasting change. We are honored to share this achievement with Stefani and everyone who made it possible.”
We invite you to watch our latest Emmy award-winning Línea Directa program:
Originally created by Arturo Salcedo Martínez and Edu-Futuro Communications & Programs Coordinator, Eduardo López, Línea Directa has served Latino families throughout the Washington region since January 1990. The program has the unique distinction of being the first local series ever broadcast on both of Washington’s leading Spanish-language television stations, Univision and Telemundo. From 1990 to 2000, Línea Directa aired on Univision, and since 2000, the public service show has been broadcast throughout the Washington metropolitan area by our local Telemundo station, now known as Telemundo 44.
Línea Directa airs on Saturday mornings, at 11:00 a.m. For more information on the program, please contact Eduardo López, Edu-Futuro’s Communications & Programs Manager, at eduardo@edu-futuro.org.
30 Parents Graduate from Coates Family Academy
On Thursday, June 11, 2026, Edu-Futuro celebrated the graduation of 30 parents from this year's Coates Family Academy at Lutie Lewis Coates Elementary School in Fairfax County. Created in 2021 by Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) Family Liaison Solangie McPherson, the Coates Family Academy is an innovative partnership that enables parents to participate in a sequence of Edu-Futuro's Parent Empowerment Services throughout the school year. Together, these weekly sessions equip participants with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the educational system, advocate effectively for their children, strengthen engagement with their schools, and confidently use digital platforms such as ParentVUE to support the academic success of their children.
"Since 2021, Edu-Futuro has been proud to partner with the Coates Family Academy," said Edu-Futuro Manager of Programs, Dulce Oliveros. "We are deeply grateful to Coates Principal Paul Basdekis and Family Liaison Solangie McPherson for their unwavering support of the Family Academy and their longstanding commitment to Edu-Futuro's mission and programs."
What made this year's cohort especially meaningful was the close, ongoing relationship that developed between Edu-Futuro staff and participating families. As Edu-Futuro Family Support Specialist, Yeimy Sánchez reflected, witnessing that transformation was one of the most rewarding aspects of the experience. "Throughout the program, we observed positive changes in family involvement and a deeper understanding of how to support student success."
One of the most memorable moments of the Family Academy graduation ceremony was the recognition of Carmen Tello, whose journey reflects the broad impact of Edu-Futuro's mission. Carmen first connected with Edu-Futuro through our Workforce Development Services, later participated in Parent Empowerment Services, and today serves as a child care provider with our organization. Her story illustrates how Edu-Futuro's integrated approach empowers families not only to become stronger advocates for their children's education, but also to pursue new educational and career opportunities for themselves.
To learn more about Edu-Futuro's Parent Empowerment Services, please contact Natalie Gutiérrez, Parent Support Team Lead, at adultprograms@edu-futuro.org.
Edu-Futuro Joins Regional Conversations on Artificial Intelligence and Digital Equity
In late June, Edu-Futuro staff participated in two important community conversations focused on the future of artificial intelligence (AI) and the technology's impact on education, employment, and underserved populations. On June 24, representatives attended the UnidosUS AI & Digital Opportunity Community Meeting. Two days later, staff joined the Digital Equity Coalition Meeting on Artificial Intelligence. Both gatherings brought together experts, technology leaders, and nonprofit organizations to explore how AI can responsibly expand opportunities for families across the Washington region and throughout the country.
The UnidosUS meeting examined how AI is reshaping education, employment, and community services, particularly for Latino communities and other historically underserved populations. Speakers emphasized that AI literacy is rapidly becoming as essential as digital literacy, and demonstrated how responsible use of AI can reduce time spent on administrative tasks, personalize learning, and help organizations make better data-informed decisions while enhancing, rather than replacing, human expertise. At the same time, panelists spoke candidly about potential risks — including algorithmic bias, data privacy concerns, and misinformation — highlighting the importance of preparing both staff and families to use these tools safely, responsibly, and ethically.
Jorge Manzaneda, Edu-Futuro's Parent Support and Workforce Development Specialist, captured the experience powerfully: "One of the biggest lessons I took away is that AI is not replacing people; AI is challenging us to grow. The future of our workforce will depend not only on technology, but on our willingness to keep learning, stay curious, remain adaptable, and support one another. We are the bridge between innovation and our communities."
The Digital Equity Coalition meeting expanded on many of these themes with a sharper focus on equity and access. Panelists noted that internet connectivity alone no longer guarantees digital inclusion. Meaningful digital equity now requires ensuring that AI tools, training, and digital skills reach everyone, including students, workers, older adults, immigrants, and small business owners. A particularly engaging discussion explored several common misconceptions about AI, including the belief that AI always provides accurate answers, operates without bias, or will replace entire professions rather than specific tasks.
Edu-Futuro Workforce Development Specialist, Carla Lissette Castillo, reflected on the importance of the discussion: "The conversation reminded me that AI literacy is just as important as digital literacy. Understanding what AI can and cannot do empowers people to use AI thoughtfully, ask better questions, and make more informed decisions." Panelists also emphasized the continuing importance of human judgment when evaluating AI-generated content, reminding participants that confident-sounding responses are not always accurate and that critical thinking remains indispensable.
One message resonated throughout both meetings: Collaboration will be essential. No single organization, panelists agreed, can successfully navigate the opportunities and challenges presented by artificial intelligence. Expanding meaningful digital equity will require sustained partnerships between community organizations, schools, libraries, local governments, and technology companies working toward shared goals.
To learn more about Edu-Futuro's Workforce Services, please contact Joceline Briceño, Workforce Development Team Lead, at workforce@edu-futuro.org. Edu-Futuro’s Workforce Development Services are supported in part by grants from the Hispanic Federation, UnidosUS, and the OpenAI People-First AI Fund.
Congratulations to Arlington Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Francisco Durán!
Edu-Futuro congratulates Arlington Public Schools (APS) Superintendent, Dr. Francisco Durán, on the unanimous decision by the Arlington School Board to extend his contract for an additional four years. The renewal reflects the School Board's continued confidence in Dr. Durán's leadership and commitment to advancing student achievement, strengthening family engagement, and expanding opportunities for every student in Arlington.
Since becoming Superintendent in 2020, Dr. Durán has guided APS through a period of significant progress, including strong graduation rates, expanded academic opportunities, increased family engagement, and continued investments in educators, school facilities, and student success. The contract extension provides important continuity as APS continues implementing strategic initiatives that support academic excellence and student well-being.
Edu-Futuro has proudly partnered with APS for many years to help immigrant, first-generation, and other underserved students achieve educational success. Through interventions like the Emerging Leaders Program and our Chronic Absenteeism Prevention initiative, both organizations have worked side by side to expand educational opportunity and strengthen family engagement across Arlington County.
"Edu-Futuro warmly congratulates Dr. Durán on this well-deserved contract extension," said Edu-Futuro Executive Director, Jorge Figueredo. "Throughout his tenure, Dr. Durán has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to Arlington's students and families, while recognizing the important role community partnerships play in student success. Edu-Futuro values this strong collaboration with Arlington Public Schools and looks forward to continuing our work together to ensure that every student — particularly those from immigrant and underserved communities — has the opportunity to thrive and achieve their full potential."
AmeriCorps Corner:
Farewell to Anthony Torrelio González
Edu-Futuro's impact is made possible through the invaluable support of both AmeriCorps State and AmeriCorps VISTA volunteers. Our cohort of AmeriCorps State volunteers plays a critical role in the lives of our students and parents by serving as facilitators for our Emerging Leaders Program and Workforce Development Services. Meanwhile, our AmeriCorps VISTA volunteers work on a variety of key capacity-building projects, including updating our beneficiary database and developing brand-new curricula for students and parents. This section highlights the outstanding work being carried out by Edu-Futuro's AmeriCorps volunteers.
This month, we celebrate one of our outstanding AmeriCorps leaders, Anthony Torrelio González, as he completes his fourth and final year of service with Edu-Futuro. Throughout his AmeriCorps journey, Anthony has inspired students, strengthened our programs, and enriched our workplace with his energy, optimism, and genuine commitment to helping others. Although we will greatly miss his dynamic and invaluable presence, we are deeply grateful for the lasting impact he has made on our organization and the community we serve.
By day, Anthony works as a public tax accountant at a boutique CPA firm in Great Falls, Virginia. By night, he gives back to the community by using his knowledge, skills, and experience to support those in need. Having grown up in the Culmore community of Falls Church, Anthony has always felt a strong desire to give back and make a meaningful impact in the community that helped shape his future.
Through his leadership as an AmeriCorps volunteer with Edu-Futuro, Anthony helped bring Edu-Futuro's resources to the Lake Braddock Secondary School community for the first time. During the Fall 2025 session, he supported more than 48 students, helping the Emerging Leaders Program: ELP-I achieve its largest graduating cohort to date. Across his years of service, Anthony has also supported more than 18 high school seniors, helping them earn more than $1.2 million in scholarship offers from colleges and universities.
Anthony's work is a powerful example of how one person's dedication can make a lasting impact on the lives of others. He has devoted himself to giving back because he has never forgotten the kindness, support, and opportunities he received from his community, mentors, and organizations throughout his own journey. Anthony truly embodies the spirit of AmeriCorps service, and what it means to lead with purpose, compassion, and commitment.
For more information on Edu-Futuro's AmeriCorps VISTA program or AmeriCorps State program, please contact Joy Harvey, AmeriCorps Programs Coordinator, at americorps@edu-futuro.org.
Health & Wellness
Youth Vaping: Progress Worth Celebrating But the Fight Is Far from Over
There is encouraging news in the fight against youth tobacco use — but no room for complacency.
According to findings released on June 23, 2026, the National Youth Tobacco Survey has confirmed that the number of middle and high school students using tobacco products has continued to decline over the past several years. Cigarette smoking among young people has reached historic lows, reflecting decades of public health education, stronger tobacco control policies, and the dedication of parents, schools, and community organizations working together to protect our children. These achievements deserve recognition because they represent thousands of young people who have avoided nicotine addiction and the serious health consequences associated with tobacco use.
Yet the same report delivers a powerful reminder that the job is far from finished. More than two million middle and high school students across the United States continue to use tobacco products, and electronic cigarettes remain the most commonly used nicotine product among youth. Approximately 1.44 million students reported using e-cigarettes in 2025, while the overwhelming majority of youth who vape continue to choose flavored products. At the same time, nicotine pouches have become increasingly popular among adolescents, underscoring how quickly the tobacco and nicotine marketplace continues to evolve.
These findings are especially important for parents because vaping is often perceived as harmless. Many young people believe that electronic cigarettes contain little more than flavored vapor. In reality, most vaping products contain nicotine, a highly addictive substance that can interfere with brain development, affect attention and learning, and increase the likelihood of long-term addiction. The teenage brain is particularly vulnerable because critical areas responsible for decision-making, memory, and impulse control continue developing well into young adulthood.
The survey also arrives at a time when the federal government has authorized certain fruit-flavored electronic cigarettes for adult smokers seeking to transition away from traditional cigarettes. Public health experts remain divided over this decision. While some believe flavored vaping products may help adult smokers quit combustible cigarettes, many organizations dedicated to preventing youth tobacco use have expressed concern that fruit flavors have long been one of the strongest factors attracting adolescents to vaping. The challenge for policymakers is finding ways to support adult smoking cessation without creating new opportunities for nicotine addiction among young people.
“Our nation must continue to prioritize protecting kids from these harmful and highly addictive products. This includes reinstating and fully funding CDC’s Office on Smoking and Health (OSH), which has played a leading role in the nation’s efforts to address youth tobacco use,” said Yolonda C. Richardson, President & CEO of the national health advocate, Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids. “It is also critical that FDA conducts science-based premarket review of new tobacco products, free of industry and political influence, and enhances enforcement against illicit tobacco products in coordination with other federal agencies.”
Parents continue to play the most important role in prevention. Honest, judgment-free conversations about vaping, nicotine addiction, and social media marketing can make a meaningful difference. Young people are exposed every day to online images portraying vaping as fashionable, harmless, or a way to relieve stress. Helping children recognize these messages for what they are — marketing strategies designed to attract new users — can strengthen critical thinking and reduce the appeal of these products.
The latest National Youth Tobacco Survey offers genuine reasons for optimism, but success should not lead to complacency. As traditional cigarettes become less common among young people, the tobacco industry continues introducing new nicotine products to create new addicts. Protecting the next generation will require continued vigilance from parents, educators, healthcare professionals, and community organizations. Every conversation about the dangers of nicotine, every informed decision, and every young person who chooses not to vape brings us one step closer to a healthier future.
Edu-Futuro’s Strengthening Families 10-14 Program, which helps teens to reduce such risky behaviors as tobacco use and vaping, is sponsored in part by a generous grant from the Virginia Foundation for Healthy Youth (VFHY), empowering Virginia's youth to make healthy choices by promoting active, nutritious and tobacco-free living.