Carolina is a first-generation Cuban-American, born and raised in Miami, FL. She became a member of Delta Phi Epsilon at Florida International University (Alpha Gamma), where she studied Psychology and Education. Upon graduating, she began volunteering for DPhiE and has since served on our National Panhellenic Conference Delegation, Event and Conferences Planning Committee, Ritual Review Committee, Programming Review Committee, and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee among several others. In addition to serving her first term on the International Governing Board, she is a proud long-term Chapter Advisory Board member at the University of Miami (Omega Chapter).
Initially, Carolina dreamt of being a Speech Pathologist but realized she had more impact in a classroom than in a therapy session. She began her career in education as an ESE (Exceptional Student Education) Teacher at an early intervention school for children with Autism at NOVA Southeastern University and still remains in contact with the families she has worked with over the years. After stepping out of the classroom, she began consulting with early childhood programs and teachers around the state, as well as in Georgia for the UNC Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute and The Autism Consortium at NSU. She is now a team lead at the Early Learning Coalition of Miami Dade & Monroe and coordinates assessments and support for high-risk, federally funded programs in South Florida.
Earlier this year, Carolina purchased her first home and is now forever decorating and rearranging furniture. She enjoys the company of her 17-year-old min-pin Rocco, collecting vintage (clothes, décor, books), Marlins baseball, traveling, advocating, rescuing animals, and attending ILF (she hasn’t missed one since she’s been initiated).
Why do you volunteer for Delta Phi Epsilon?
DPhiE has helped me grow as an individual and my sisters have supported me through the good and not-so-good moments in my lifetime. My intention is to ensure that this wonderful, empowering support system is accessible for years to come. Since graduating 17 years ago, the sisters I have met as a volunteer and as an alum continue to fill my cup and show me what it means to be a sister and a DPhiE; they inspire me to continue to give back, and fight for change.
What do you hope to accomplish while serving on the International Governing Board? Or what do you bring to the table?
I am a very vocal, passionate person, and I hope to acknowledge and provide a platform for all those that do not feel heard. I believe we all have something to learn from each other and no one sister is more important than another. I have worked in education my entire career, as well as served as an advisor and consultant for over 10 years; I believe my background will help me effectively play “devil’s advocate” in order to ensure best practices are implemented.
Favorite Delta Phi Epsilon memory?
Chapter Thursdays, lining up in scroll order, in our chapter jerseys, and spilling into the room and having the opportunity to catch up with everyone before and after our weekly meeting. Founders Day Camping trips where anything and everything could happen. Never missing a Convention (now known as ILF) and getting to meet and mingle with incredibly like-minded sisters from around the country who are now some of my most treasured friends.
How has Delta Phi Epsilon impacted your life?
I am a first-generation Cuban- American, this sisterhood has helped me navigate college, careers, relationships, and loss. The support, guidance, and brutal honesty of my sisters have helped me grow, succeed, and heal. This sisterhood has provided me with a family, especially after the loss of mine. I am forever inspired by the strength and empathy of our members.
If you could tell an undergraduate sister one thing, what would it be?
I hope you never lose the excitement of reuniting with sisters or meeting a new sister. I hope you realize that this is something that extends far beyond your family tree/mc and your chapter. I hope you take this privileged opportunity to grow and lift those around you. I hope you get the opportunity to experience the many levels of sisterhood in DPhiE despite any temporary obstacles you may have to learn from. We know you are the future of this organization and we believe in you.
This blog series is to highlight the members of the International Governing Board who transitioned into their roles at the 2022 International Leadership Forum. The International Governing Board focuses on the overall governance of the sorority and strategic planning for each biennium. These positions are elected every two years.