Press Release received from The Hispanic Latino Commission of Michigan:
June 24, 2016 – The Hispanic Latino Commission of Michigan (HLCOM) and the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) today appointed Dr. Felipe Lopez-Sustaita as executive director of the commission. The position had been vacant since Marylou Mason’s retirement in December 2015.
“The commission is excited to start a new chapter of serving Hispanics throughout Michigan with the appointment of Dr. Lopez-Sustaita as our new executive director” said HLCOM Chairman Noel Garcia. “Felipe has a remarkable track record of advocacy, public service, building partnerships and leadership.”
“Dr. Lopez-Sustaita’s leadership skills make him a great addition to the commission and we welcome him to the department,” said LARA Director, Shelly Edgerton. “I would like to thank the selection committee for their efforts during this process.”
As HLCOM executive director, Dr. Lopez-Sustaita will assist the commission with its mission to help increase economic growth of Hispanics, promote better education and academic achievements for Hispanics, and increase awareness of issues faced by the community to local and state government.
Dr. Lopez-Sustaita previously served as the LUCERO program coordinator and academic advisor at Lansing Community College. He holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Michigan State University and a doctorate degree in education from Ferris State University. Dr. Lopez-Sustaita also has international education experience in Africa, Greece, Mexico and the Ukraine.
For those of us who have been Blessed to have either met or worked with Felipe know, integrity, honestly and hard work are part of his calling card. His love of helping people is well known. His work recently as the LUCERO Program Director at Lansing Community College raised the profile but most importantly built a long needed bridge from LCC to Michigan State University which resulted in several partnerships between the two. As I sat and listened to the Commission announce his appointment, I almost cried knowing the impact he will make. Words can’t describe this writers excitement over Felipe being named Executive Director. Well done LARA and the Hispanic Latino Commission of Michigan!
