Dr. Luis A. Báez is keynote speaker at SAC’s Gala

CLEVELAND: Dr. Luis “Tony” Báez, President/CEO of the Council for Spanish Speaking, Inc. (the oldest Hispanic community-based organization in Milwaukee), will be the Keynote Speaker at The Spanish American Committee’s (SAC) 2^nd Annual Noche de Gala fundraiser – “Noche de Gala Tropical!” 

The Gala takes place Friday, Nov. 20, 2009, at the Renaissance Cleveland Hotel (24 Public Square), 6:00 p.m. – 1:00 a.m., and features Latin Grammy award-winning artist, Milly Quezada and her orchestra.  

The event includes a VIP Reception and Dinner, Evening Dance (with light meal), silent auction, prize drawings, and more.  Cleveland Mayor Frank G. Jackson is the Honorary Chair, and proceeds directly support Spanish American Committee programs and services. Also on hand is newly appointed Judge Keila Cosme (Ohio’s 6^th District Court of Appeals).  

Dr. Báez, who is also a former Provost and Chief Academic Officer of the Milwaukee Area Technical College (MATC) will speak on “Engaging in social change with People of Color in 2010”.  

Dr. Báez has been involved with civil rights issues, educational reform and community-based education for the past 40 years. He has taught and worked in the public schools, two-year colleges and at a major research university (UW-Milwaukee). Báez has directed community-based organizations, community-based alternative schools, and has done research in the field.

Dr. Báez has been a leader in Latino education, parent involvement in schools, at-risk youth issues, bilingual and multicultural education, adult education and English as a Second Language.  Báez has also developed educational plans for several large urban school districts in the U.S. and has done research and writing on subjects including school reform.

Says Rose M. Rodríguez-Bardwell, Executive Director, The Spanish American Committee, “We are honored to have Dr. Báez serve as our keynote speaker at this year’s Gala and Annual Meeting.  Dr. Báez is nationally known for his contributions, particularly in the areas of health, education, and civil rights, as it relates to the Latino community. He’s a true humanitarian, and the Cleveland community is fortunate that he is participating in our event.”

Tickets to Noche de Gala Tropical are $55 (for admission to the Evening Dance that includes a light meal) and $150 (includes admission to the VIP Dinner and Evening Dance).  For more information, including ticket information and/or sponsorship opportunities, call 216-961-2100) or visit www.spanishamerican.org