13th Annual Latina Voices

This is the 13th annual Latina Voices program which celebrates the talents and achievements of Latinas in the Pikes Peak region.

This free event will be held from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Sat., Sept. 21 at Library 21c, 1175 Chapel Hills Drive.

This year’s keynote speaker will be Maj. Gen. Linda Urrutia-Varhall, a native of Pueblo who graduated from the United States Air Force Academy and went on to become the first Latina two-star general in the U.S. Air Force. 

Among other accomplishments, Urrutia-Varhall served three secretaries of defense and the director of national intelligence, advising cabinet-level officials, intelligence officers, national intelligence agencies, Congress, and the White House on aligning objectives, developing and executing strategies and policies, and diplomacy initiatives. 

Also presenting will be Rubba Ahram, a dedicated public health advocate with 14 years of experience in healthcare, behavioral health, quality improvement, and leadership. 

With Colombian and Middle Eastern heritage, Ahram is deeply committed to serving the Latino, immigrant, and underserved populations. As a public health planner for El Paso County, Ahram plays a driving role in fostering community partnerships and promoting community health improvement locally. 

In addition, there will be a performance by Ritmo y Sabor Hispano, a folklorico dance group comprised of 20 students from Harrison High School.

According to Director Marcia Bates and co-sponsor Sophia Alberico, “through dance, our group can promote empathy, cooperation, and the ability to share with others culture, traditions, and the affirmation of ethnic identity.”

Coffee and pastries will be served. The event is sponsored by the Colorado Springs Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and hosted by Pikes Peak Library District.

Registration Recommended.