First Hispanic graduate of Lake Erie College School of Education shares story

Luz Delgado is a trailblazer, said Katharine Delavan, the associate professor of early childhood education at Lake Erie College in Painesville.

“Luz is our first Hispanic graduate from the School of Education,” she said. “She has now become a role model for others, even if she did not intend to be, she is truly inspiring. Luz is a person to celebrate not only her diversity, but her love for learning. She has overcome many obstacles to get to this point.”

As Delgado prepares for LEC’s 163rd commencement ceremony on May 6, the 32-year-old reflects on her journey.

“I’m a Harvey High School graduate, but I was only there a year and a half,” she said. “I came to the United States when I was 17 years old. Besides going to high school, I always worked part-time and even full-time sometimes. So, I really wanted to go to college, but I couldn’t afford to go away from home.”

Therefore, she went to Lakeland Community College in Kirtland to study accounting. Although she had strong math skills and did well in classes, Delgado said she wanted to do something to help others.

So, she worked for the Head Start program in Painesville for six years in several roles.

“I worked there as a teacher assistant, then I became (an English as a Second Language liaison) and while I was working, I went back to Lakeland and received my associate’s degree in early childhood education,” she said. “I’ve always wanted to work for Painesville City Local Schools because I am a Harvey graduate and I’ve always wanted to give back.”

Delgado decided to attend Lake Erie College.

“It was a challenge and I didn’t think I could do it, but I got a lot of support from Dr. Delavan, Hannah Fairbanks (early childhood education instructor) and Pam Martin (clinical experiences and partnerships director),” she said. ”I’m so grateful for all of my professors. I couldn’t have done it alone. It was true teamwork.”

She also says her family has stood by her side the entire time.

“My father has always been a great listener and motivator,” she said. “He has always pushed me to do my best and follow my dreams, and my husband and daughter have been so supportive and understanding.”

Delgado completed her field experience at Hadden Elementary School in Painesville Township, and Chestnut and Maple Elementary Schools in Painesville.

Luz’s clinical supervisor, Linda Lanese, said student success is Luz’s main concern.

“Luz plans lessons that use strategies that engage the students in the class,” Lanese said. “Meeting individual needs is important to her.”

Delgado also encourages her students follow their dreams.

“It may not be easy, but I tell them they can do it,” she said. “It’s not just about the Hispanic students, I think about all of them. My first generation from Head Start are now in seventh grade and they still hug me and remember me and that makes me proud.”

Delgado is earning a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education.

Delavan says she is proud to say that Delgado is a graduate of their early childhood licensure program.

“The impact she will have in the classroom is immeasurable,” she said. “Students need to see teachers that represent themselves, there is inherent value in building relationships and feeling a sense of belonging for students.”

Following commencement, Delgado will seek a Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages , or TESOL, graduate endorsement at Lake Erie College.

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