SUNY WCC Dean Carmen Martinez-Lopez Honored by Westchester Hispanic Chamber of Commerce

Valhalla, NY— Dr. Carmen Martinez-Lopez, Dean of the School of Business and Professional Careers at SUNY Westchester Community College, recently received the Hispanic Women of Impact Award from the Westchester Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.

Dr. Martinez-Lopez has served SUNY Westchester Community College as dean since 2016, where she has facilitated the creation of the new Robert Weiner Center for Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity; led the implementation of the School of Business; and spearheaded the Professional Careers Success Team, whose main goal is to offer a holistic approach to academic success. In identifying student needs and in support of faculty, Dr. Martinez-Lopez led and guided the Viking Resources for Obtaining Associate Degrees and Success (ROADS) program.

Dean Martinez-Lopez is a member of the Westchester County Hispanic Advisory Board, and also serves on the Board of Directors of Volunteer New York whose mission of positive action aligns with her own personal life view.

“I am humbled and honored by this recognition from the Westchester Hispanic Chamber of Commerce,” said Dr. Martinez-Lopez. “What is special about this tribute is that it is based not on my own accomplishments but the impact I have had on others. Pursuing a career in higher education is dedicating my life to helping raise others to reach their full potential, and being able to do so at our local college fills me with pride and joy.”

“Dr. Martinez-Lopez epitomizes the talent, hard work, determination and tenacity of Latinas who blaze a trail to create a successful life,” said Aleida Frederico, Chair of the WHCC. “Dr. Martinez-Lopez has not only forged a path fulfilling her own dreams, she has become a leader who has served as a mentor and role model for the next generation.”

The Westchester Hispanic Chamber of Commerce is the leading county-wide Hispanic business organization dealing with the concerns of the growing Hispanic business community of Westchester. The WHCC promotes programs, events, resources and activities that propel Hispanic businesses forward.

About Westchester Community College

Westchester Community College provides over 31,000 full-time and part-time students with an education taught by award-winning faculty at one of the most affordable tuition rates in New York State. WCC offers more than 60 degree and certificate programs, including innovative programs in such high-demand fields as cybersecurity, health information technology, respiratory therapy, and digital filmmaking. The college reflects the rich diversity of its region and was the first SUNY campus to be designated a Hispanic Serving Institution.

Westchester Community College Foundation

Since its founding in 1969, Westchester Community College Foundation (a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization) has raised funds to meet college and student needs not covered by public funds, distributing over $2 million in scholarships annually. Through its fundraising and programmatic activities, the Foundation supports the college’s efforts to provide access to quality education and skills for success.