Laredo’s unique position between two great countries has opened up many opportunities for economic growth and community success. Among these, Laredo College continues to focus its strengths on strengthening individuals of all ages.
As a binational city, Laredo College understands the importance of being a pillar of education, ready to educate, train and expand the capabilities of community members who seek to advance beyond their current positions. However, this also presents the challenge of experienced professionals needing to recertify or regain licenses in their respective fields.
Through the Adult Education and Literacy Program, community members connect with professional faculty members who are prepared to teach essential skills and provide valuable information.
The program is designed to serve as a catalyst for economic development, empowering individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to participate in the workforce and become stronger employees in their fields. All programs are offered at no cost to students, funded by the Adult Education & Literacy grant.
“We aim to be flexible and responsive, adapting to the changing needs of learners, whether they are employed, parents learning English to support their children or others. Most importantly, we empower adult learners to achieve personal, educational and professional growth,” Sandra Cortez, LC Dean of Community Education and Adult Education Director said.
Among the many success stories produced by the program is that of Ana Lidia Treviño Ley, a student who began her journey with English as a Second Language courses and recently completed a certificate in Bookkeeping/QuickBooks.
Treviño Ley has had a noteworthy career over the past four decades. She was the founding director of the Instituto Municipal de la Mujer de Nuevo Laredo, a governmental entity aimed at eliminating all forms of discrimination against women to ensure equality.
In 2008, she founded Lilith Consultoras, a consulting firm dedicated to promoting the incorporation of a gender perspective in public policies and labor practices. The company advocates for implementing norms and laws to build a just and equitable society, based on the premise that achieving true development requires advancing gender equality and empowering women.
“My entire adult life has been dedicated to empowering women across all spheres and platforms, advocating for human rights and shaping public policy that defends and dignifies the work and contributions of women and marginalized groups,” she said.
After decades of a successful professional career in Mexico, her new life in the United States is just beginning. She sees her story reflected in those of many people she met at Laredo College.
“Many of my classmates came from Mexico and are now starting from scratch in the United States. They were successful and accomplished in their own right back home, and now they find themselves needing the skills to adapt to life and the job market here,” she said.
As a certified public accountant with over 15 years of experience in personal and tax accounting, she discovered that the college also offered accounting and bookkeeping certifications after completing her English courses.
“For me, these short-term courses are ideal because I already have the experience, skill set and my degree from Mexico. All the theoretical concepts are the same. My classes have allowed me to learn the terminology and the software used here to continue my career,” Treviño Ley said.
She holds a Master’s Degree in Equality Agent for Social Intervention with a Gender Perspective from the University of Seville in Spain, a Master’s Degree in Higher Education from Universidad Valle del Bravo Campus Nuevo Laredo and a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting from Universidad Autónoma de Tamaulipas.
She noted how Laredo College bridges the gap not only for non-native speakers but also for those seeking short-term programs or certificates in specialized fields to secure well-compensated jobs in high-demand sectors.
As she approaches her 60th birthday, she envisions a bright future ahead, equipped with the tools to succeed from what she has learned at Laredo College.
“I am proud of all my professional and personal accomplishments, and with what I have learned here at Laredo College, I feel more comfortable navigating the job market and taking the next steps in my career,” she said.
As part of her illustrious career as a teacher, public servant, human rights advocate, community leader and entrepreneur, she hopes to soon add “professor” to her resume. With her vast experience and education, she aims to become an accounting or business professor and share her knowledge and experiences with students starting their careers.
“Laredo College has been life-changing for me and for so many others. They have made my transition easier through their programs and services. I polished my English language skills and got certified in Bookkeeping and QuickBooks. I’m eager to enroll in more classes and benefit from their business and workforce preparation certifications,” she concluded.
