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Saint Francis Athletic Director Irma Garcia Honored at White House on October 1
WASHINGTON, D.C. -- St. Francis
College Athletic Director Irma Garcia was honored on October 1 at
The White House, in Washington, D.C. as a 2008 Las Primeras Award
Recipient by MANA, A National Latina Organization, for becoming the
first Hispanic woman to run an NCAA Division I Athletic Program.
Another reception was held on October 2 at the Organization of
American States, Hall of the Americas.
“This is a great honor for me,” said Athletic Director
Garcia. “I’ve wanted this job since I was a little
girl. I had no idea I would be breaking down barriers when I
finally achieved my goal. I’m happy to do anything I can to
bring more women along the path to success.”
This was the 19th year MANA has hosted a Gala recognizing Latinas
who have accomplished firsts. The black tie event is a key event
during Hispanic Heritage Month and will be attended by more than
300 people including public and private sector leaders, Members of
Congress and key administration officials
Past honorees include the Honorable Ileana Ros-Lehtinen, first
Latina elected to Congress; Dr. Antonia Novello, first Latina to
become Surgeon General; Dr. Ellen Ochoa, first Latina Astronaut and
General Angela Salinas, highest ranking Latina and the first Latina
selected to the rank of Brigadier General.
MANA is a national grassroots organization founded in 1974 made up
of chapters and individual members across the country. MANA’s
mission is to empower Latinas through leadership development,
community service and advocacy.
