JERSEY CITY, NJ. September 27, 2024 (Hudson Latin Chamber) — Hudson County Community College (HCCC) and the Hudson County Latin American Chamber of Commerce (HCLACC) proudly signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Tuesday, September 24th, aimed at strengthening the Latino business community.
The purpose of this Memorandum of Understanding is for HCCC and HCLACC to collaborate in support of each organization’s mission. Together, HCCC through its Entrepreneurship and Small Business Services and HCLACC will focus on assisting entrepreneurs and small businesses in Hudson County, as well as the HCCC community. This partnership may involve workshops, business training programs, events aimed at promoting entrepreneurial and student initiatives, and other collaborative efforts, including resource sharing, cross-marketing opportunities, and information exchange.
HCCC will engage staff, students, faculty, and other college departments to support these initiatives, while HCLACC will work with its staff and partners to do the same. Both organizations will share resources to enhance their capacity to support entrepreneurs, small businesses, and the HCCC community.
Additionally, this Memorandum of Understanding establishes a framework for collaboration that benefits both parties by enhancing educational and business opportunities, fostering community engagement, and supporting workforce development initiatives.
The signing ceremony featured remarks from key leaders, including Dr. Chris Reber, President of HCCC; Dr. Yeurys Pujols, Vice President of DEI; and Heidi Castrillon, President of HCLACC. They were joined by esteemed guest speakers Anthony Romano, Chair of the Hudson County Board of Commissioners; Terrence Clark, President and CEO of the NY NJ Minority Supplier Development Council; Elizabeth Berman, President and CEO of Continental Food and Beverage Inc.; and Rev. Bolivar Flores.
Dr. Reber expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, “We are thrilled to formalize this partnership with the Hudson County Latin American Chamber of Commerce. This agreement underscores our deep commitment to empowering diverse communities and expanding access to education and entrepreneurship, paving the way for a brighter future for all communities across the county.”
Heidi Castrillon highlighted the importance of the MOU, stating, “This marks a crucial milestone in our mission to uplift and empower our businesses. By working together, we have the opportunity to cultivate a dynamic economic landscape that not only supports our business community but also enriches the entire Hudson County community. Our collaborative efforts will drive innovation, create jobs, and foster a spirit of inclusivity that benefits everyone.”
The event gathered over 100 local leaders, community members, and stakeholders to celebrate this momentous occasion and discuss the partnership’s potential impact on educational and economic opportunities for Latin American entrepreneurs and students in the region.
Following the formal remarks, attendees engaged in discussions about the future of this partnership and its benefits for the local community. Light refreshments were served, and the event was open to the public, encouraging participation from anyone interested in supporting local businesses and educational initiatives.
PHOTO: (Back: left to right) Elizabeth Berman, President and CEO Continental Food and Beverage Inc.; Terrence Clark, President and CEO New York New Jersey Minority Supplier Development Council; Irma Larios-Alzúa, Consul of Community Culture Affairs, Consulate of Mexico; Anthony Romano, Chair of the Hudson County Board of Commissioners; Jessica Ramirez, Assemblywoman; Yeurys Pujols, Vice President for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion; and Enrique Bonelli, General Consul, Consulate of Peru in NJ. (Seated: left to right) Heidi Castrillon, President of HCLACC; and Dr. Chris Reber, President of HCCC.
