History
In the fall semester of 1987, Carlos Menjivar of Phi Iota Alpha Fraternity, Inc., the oldest known Latino fraternity, realized there was a need for more Latino representation in engineering at Stony Brook University. Together, he and Luis A. Gomez envisioned an organization that would unite, support, and empower Latinos in the engineering field. With the support of the Engineering department, their first meeting in 1995 was a huge success and the Stony Brook University professional chapter of the Society of Hispanic Engineers (SHE) was born. By unanimous vote, their first Executive Board was elected:
President Luis A. Gomez
Vice President Orlando Montan
Treasurer Annette Pamis
Secretary Malbin Mendoza
Public Relations Managers Lily Liy and Jorge Resto.
The organization would go on to host field trips and professional guest speakers so students would have the opportunity to network and build relationships with individuals in their prospective industries. Collectively, they worked on increasing the number of Hispanic engineering students on campus, providing guidance and aid so that these students could flourish and complete their education.
Mission
SHPE changes lives by empowering the Hispanic community to realize its fullest potential and to impact the world through STEM awareness, access, support and development.
Vision
SHPE’s vision is a world where Hispanics are highly valued and influential as the leading innovators, scientists, mathematicians and engineers.
Executive Board
Maria Valencia
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President
Geuris German
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Vice President
Chris Quilla
Treasurer
Antonio gambra
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Secretary
Extended Executive Board
Eva Gallegos
Social Media Director
Nathalie Urrutia
Social Media Director
Michael Ly
Graphic Designer
Alexander Maus
Graphic Designer
Jared osacio
SHPE Jr. Chair
Ashley Gomez
Freshman Ambassador
Daniel Jaramillo
Funding Chair
Jonathan Cruzate
Webmaster
Janiel Reyes
Webmaster
Tamzid Ahmad
Webmaster
[SHPE] definitely created a sense of community for me on campus both academically and socially. SHPE changed my prospective professional development and escalated the limits of goals as an engineer. SHPE also made me develop the desire to help those in need in my community (both professionally and socially).
SHPE provided a platform to develop and enhance soft skills via the various tasks required to run and operate a chapter. Encouraged group work that is essential in the real world; no matter the industry. Accountability is key to career development and personal growth, and SHPE provided that platform where it forces individuals to respect other peoples time.
[SHPE] has given me this sense of leadership. You can’t be a leader without first attempting to be one. SHPE till this day introduces me to interesting people and ensures I do not lose touch with the hispanic community and those willing to learn. Every now and then I feel spiritually drained and then I go to a SHPE event and get re-inspired!
If it wasn’t for SHPE, I wouldn’t have had a career in engineering, lived in New Orleans or have the professional experiences I gained over the years. My only regret was not being more involved during my senior year and also a few years after moving back to NYC. However, I am glad to be back on campus and help out the SBU SHPE chapter!
