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New England Latina Leadership Institute Research Reports

In January 2026, the Latinas in Leadership Institute, based in Connecticut, unveiled a significant collection of research reports that address pressing challenges faced by the Latino community. Produced in collaboration with the University of Connecticut's El Instituto|Puerto Rican Studies Initiative, these reports offer a community-focused perspective on various societal issues impacting Latinos both in Connecticut and beyond.

Purpose of the Reports

The newly available reports serve as crucial resources for organizations, libraries, and industry sectors aiming to enhance their understanding of the Latino experience. They are instrumental in the strategic planning and community engagement efforts of stakeholders from various fields. By visiting the Latinas in Leadership Institute's website, anyone interested can find the complete collection of these valuable insights.

Marilyn Alverio, CEO of Latinas in Leadership Institute, remarked, "Our collaboration with the University of Connecticut's El Instituto has been essential in producing 16 impactful reports. These documents analyze critical disparities in education, health inequity, financial literacy, low voting engagement, and the underrepresentation of Latinas in positions of power."

The Research Process

The research embodies a comprehensive approach that is grounded in firsthand narratives from community members. Each report results from an IRB-approved process, employing structured interviews conducted by graduate students at the University of Connecticut. According to Dr. Venator Santiago, Executive Director of El Instituto, the project's goals include generating relevant data from diverse sources, such as U.S. Census data and tailored surveys, to enhance the discourse surrounding civic engagement and community development.

Key Focus Areas of the Reports

The reports cover a range of vital issues, including:

• - Health Inequality: This report examines the disparities in healthcare access and outcomes among Latino populations.
• - Education Disparities: Investigating the systemic barriers that hinder educational achievements and opportunities.
• - Underrepresentation of Latinas: Highlighting the lack of Latina voices and representation on boards and within political spheres.
• - Voter Participation Rates: Analyzing contributing factors to lower engagement levels in the voting process.
• - Financial Literacy and Wealth Management: Addressing the economic challenges Latinas face and potential pathways to empowerment.

Each report is designed to authentically reflect the lived experiences of Latinos, collected through surveys and interviews that aim to provide accurate and relatable narratives.

Impact and Future Directions

With sixteen reports completed, six of them have already garnered attention through their feature in various industry magazines, showcasing their findings to a broader audience. The Institute now plans to develop these reports into concise policy briefs and collaborate with local legislators to propose the integration of these insights into prospective bills, aiming for meaningful policy advancements.

The development of this program has been supported by a variety of stakeholders, including the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development, VOYA Foundation, and multiple other foundations. These organizations have contributed financial backing to facilitate the program, allowing for a competitive tuition rate while providing additional financial support for deserving women.

Latinas in Leadership remains committed to bridging the leadership gap for Latinas in the U.S., equipping them with essential tools and inspiration to thrive as influential leaders and advocates within their communities. With ongoing efforts in research and advocacy, the Institute is poised to continue making a lasting impact for the Latino population.

For more information about the full range of research reports and the ongoing initiatives of the Latinas in Leadership Institute, please visit their official website.