Montgomery County Council recently celebrated Hispanic Heritage Month by honoring three influential female pioneers who have made significant contributions to the community. The event highlighted the achievements of Mariel Arevalo Badon, Janina Hasbun, and Teresa Ramirez, each of whom has played a vital role in shaping the future of the county.

Mariel Arevalo Badon, a recent immigrant from El Salvador, has been recognized for her academic accomplishments, including receiving the prestigious Jack Kent Cooke scholarship. Despite facing challenges related to her immigration status and language barriers, Mariel is determined to pursue a career in oncology, becoming the first in her family to attend college. Her story serves as an inspiration to many, showcasing resilience and the importance of community support.

Janina Hasbun, a native of El Salvador, is the creator of the award-winning Villas de la Salud community health worker certification training program. This initiative, offered through the Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services, aims to enhance the skills of community health workers, particularly those serving Spanish-speaking populations. Hasbun emphasized the importance of equipping these workers with the necessary tools to improve health outcomes in underserved communities.

Teresa Ramirez, a first-generation Mexican American scientist, has dedicated over 20 years to biomedical research and actively mentors youth in the Hispanic community. Through her involvement with organizations like Latinas Leading Tomorrow and Eco Latinos, she advocates for higher education and social justice, encouraging young people to pursue their dreams despite obstacles.

The Montgomery County Council's proclamation during the event recognized the rich contributions of Hispanic and Latino residents, who now make up over 21% of the county's population. The council reaffirmed its commitment to diversity, equity, and social justice, celebrating the vibrant tapestry of cultures that enrich the community.

As the council marked its 11th annual Hispanic Heritage Month commemoration, the theme \"Pioneers of Change, Shaping the Future Together\" resonated throughout the event, highlighting the ongoing impact of Hispanic and Latino leaders in Montgomery County.