September 15 – October 15 marks Hispanic Heritage Month, a time to recognize and honor the histories, cultures, and contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans. The celebration begins on September 15, commemorating the independence anniversaries of Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua, with Mexico (Sept. 16) and Chile (Sept. 18) also celebrating independence this week.

Since its creation in 1968 and expansion in 1988, Hispanic Heritage Month has provided an opportunity to reflect on the impact Hispanic and Latino leaders have made across education, government, business, culture, and community life. Their legacies of resilience, leadership, and innovation continue to shape our nation and inspire future generations.

Throughout this month, we will highlight leaders who exemplify these values in Maryland and beyond, beginning with:

  • Jessica Quincosa (Judge AW Center Board Member, Executive Director of Community Legal Services in Prince George’s County (CLS))

  • Dean Rivera (BSOS, University of Maryland)

  • Gloria Aparicio (University of Maryland)

  • Joseline Peña-Melnyk (Maryland Delegate)

  • Y. Maria Martinez (First Special Secretary, Governor’s Office of Small, Minority, and Women Business Affairs)

Join us as we celebrate their achievements and the enduring influence of Hispanic and Latino communities.

Jessica Quincosa

During Hispanic Heritage Month, we honor Jessica Quincosa, Judge AW Center Board Member and Executive Director of Community Legal Services in Prince George’s County (CLS). On September 24, 2025, Quincosa was awarded as one of The Daily Record Maryland’s Hispanic Leadership Awards honorees. Maryland’s Hispanic Leadership Awards honor the growing and powerful force of Hispanics in Maryland’s economy and culture by recognizing Hispanic leaders and the companies that empower them. We are honored to have our board member receive this award for her professional accomplishment, community involvement and commitment to mentoring.

 

Learn more about Jessica Quincosa:

Faculty Profile | Jessica Quincosa

 

See her latest profile highlight on the Daily Record:

The Daily Record | Jessica Quincosa

 

Dean Rivera

During Hispanic Heritage Month, the Judge Alexander Williams, Jr. Center proudly recognizes Dr. Susan Rivera, Dean of the College of Behavioral and Social Sciences (BSOS) at the University of Maryland. As a visionary leader, scholar, and advocate for educational excellence, Dean Rivera embodies the values of ethics, justice, service, education, and opportunity that guide our mission.

Dean Rivera’s leadership has strengthened the University’s commitment to inclusive education and research that addresses society’s most pressing challenges. Her work champions student success, supports diverse scholarship, and fosters interdisciplinary collaboration across behavioral and social sciences. Through her dedication to mentorship and academic innovation, she continues to inspire the next generation of scholars and changemakers.

A distinguished cognitive neuroscientist, Dean Rivera’s research has focused on learning and development across diverse populations. Her career reflects a steadfast commitment to broadening access to education and ensuring that all students—especially those from historically underrepresented communities—are equipped to thrive.

This Hispanic Heritage Month, we celebrate Dean Rivera not only for her scholarly achievements, but for her leadership in cultivating opportunity, equity, and a sense of shared purpose within the University of Maryland community and beyond. Her work reminds us that the pursuit of knowledge and justice are deeply connected—and that through education, we can create pathways to a more ethical and inclusive future.