In southeastern Connecticut, people of Hispanic heritage stand as role models for youths in many professional and civic positions. The Day interviewed six role models in various careers and asked them to share their stories and speak about the importance of representation.

Groton City police officer Alejandro Rosa has been on the force since 2013 and enjoys interacting with the community. Sgt. Celia Crespo is a 19-year Connecticut Air National Guard member and supervises soldiers who repair and maintain military helicopters at the Groton-New London Airport. Barbara Rodríguez is a director of drug product manufacturing at Pfizer, Inc. and was part of a team that helped play a role in the recent development of Paxlovid, an antiviral treatment of COVID-19.

U.S. Coast Guard Academy Cadet First Class Renae Sanchez served as battalion commander for all cadets this past summer and plays on the academy’s women’s soccer team. Jorge Perez became a registered nurse after seeing a lack of resources for Spanish-speaking people in healthcare. Janette Velez owns two businesses in Norwich, chairs the Puerto Rican civic events committee and helps people of other ethnic backgrounds plan and hold festivals honoring their heritages.

We hope you enjoy their stories and meet them in the community.