Blanca Acevedo is the director of Grants Administration at Malcolm X College, part of the City College of Chicago. She plays an important role in creating and enhancing academic opportunities for low-income and Latino students pursuing careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). In 2023, she was honored as a U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) E. Kika De La Garza (EKDLG) fellow, which reflects her commitment to the students she serves and her visionary approach to her work at the college. The USDA E. Kika De La Garza Fellowship Program strengthens educational partnerships with staff from Hispanic-serving institutions, allowing them to collaborate with USDA to gain insights into the federal government and learn about opportunities for their respective institutions.
Acevedo has been instrumental in gathering and sharing crucial information, facilitating internships and organizing guest speaker events that significantly enhance her students’ educational experiences. Her aim is to bring to Malcolm X College the fresh insights and valuable connections that she gained during her fellowship, information she believes can benefit the institution and its student body. She has also spearheaded a successful summer STEM program that immerses students in hands-on projects, stimulating their curiosity and innovation. This includes projects involving underwater robotics and water quality research that addresses community environmental challenges and the need for sustainable practices.
During the fellowship, Acevedo built strong connections with fellows from different states, creating a network based on diverse knowledge and experiences. This collaborative atmosphere amplifies her mission to support her students and community.
As a first-generation Mexican immigrant, Acevedo deeply understands the significance of Hispanic representation in STEM fields. Her personal journey has fueled her dedication to inspiring students who share similar backgrounds, demonstrating that they, too, can succeed in challenging and competitive environments. “I didn’t have someone around me who was in the STEM fields,” she said. “I need to be the person now that I needed when I was younger.”
Acevedo encourages others to apply for the fellowship, emphasizing the immense potential for personal growth and transformation. Additionally, she supports the role of USDA in addressing critical issues such as food deserts and water quality, particularly in Hispanic communities. Through her efforts, she aims to reshape and broaden the narrative surrounding USDA’s contributions to society.