HITN is introducing Letters to the Next Generation, a Women’s History Month initiative designed to amplify the voices of women in leadership, education, and community advocacy.

This year’s theme, “Moving Forward Together,” emphasizes the importance of mentorship and the exchange of wisdom across generations.

Eleven women from various sectors—including education, government, media, and community organizations—have written letters offering guidance, encouragement, and personal reflections. These letters will be distributed to schools in New York City, Chicago, and Puerto Rico, fostering discussions among students.

Later in the month, HITN will showcase the impact of the initiative by sharing photos of students engaging with the letters, along with reflections on how the messages have resonated with them.

Women Behind the Letters

The authors of Letters to the Next Generation are also recipients of HITN’s Inspire Her recognition for Women’s History Month 2025. They include:

• Hon. Doris Gonzalez – NY Supreme Court Justice
• Laurie Cumbo – Commissioner, NYC Department of Cultural Affairs
• Yalitza Vasquez – Deputy Superintendent, Icahn Charter Schools
• Linda Hernandez – HITN Board Director
• Selin Alicanoglu – Principal, Maspeth High School, Queens, NY
• Carmen Collazo – Chief Operating Officer & Chief External Relations Officer, Community Counseling and Mediation, Brooklyn, NY
• Jessica Fuentes – City of Chicago Alderperson, 26th Ward
• Melissa Lewis – Principal, Dr. Pedro Albizu Campos Puerto Rican High School, Chicago, IL
• Sheila Venson – Executive Director, Youth Connection Charter School, Chicago, IL
• Mayra I. Meléndez Barrios – Director, Special Olympics, Puerto Rico
• Natalia Meléndez – WAPA Sports Reporter, Puerto Rico

Participating Schools

Schools receiving the letters include:

• Progress High School, Brooklyn, NY
• Magnet School of Multimedia Arts & Engineering, Brooklyn, NY
• Maspeth High School, Queens, NY
• Icahn Charter School #5, Bronx, NY
• Dr. Pedro Albizu PR High School, Chicago, IL
• Nueva Escuela Juan Ponce de Leon, Puerto Rico

As these letters reach classrooms, they are expected to spark conversations and inspire young students, particularly girls, to pursue their goals with confidence. The initiative aims to encourage the next generation to embrace mentorship and shared experiences as they navigate their own futures.