WASHINGTON, DC – On Monday, September 22, 2014 at 10:15 AM, the White House will honor local "Champions of Change" who are doing extraordinary work to educate the next generation of Americans. These Champions have distinguished themselves by devoting their time and energy to creating opportunities for young people to succeed, particularly in low-income communities. As a part of Hispanic Heritage Month, this event will showcase these leaders and the exceptional contributions they have made to Latino communities and this country. The program will feature remarks from Jim Shelton, Deputy Secretary of the Department of Education, Roberto Rodriguez, Deputy Assistant to the President for Education, and Alejandra Ceja, Executive Director of the White House Initiative on Educational Excellence for Hispanics.
The Champions of Change program was created as an opportunity for the White House to feature individuals doing extraordinary things to empower and inspire members of their communities.
The event will be live- streamed on the White House website at www.whitehouse.gov/live. To learn more about the White House Champions of Change program, visit www.whitehouse.gov/champions.
Shana Runck, Albuquerque, New Mexico
Shana Runck is the Assistant Vice President of Community Relations and Financial Capabilities with the New Mexico Educators Federal Credit Union. In this role, she has worked to promote financial education and job training among students in New Mexico. As a New Mexico native and seasoned educator, she is passionate about providing at-risk Latino youth with the financial tools and life skills necessary for a successful transition into college, employment, and financial independence. Shana has played a vital role in the development of the City of Albuquerque’s “Running Start for Careers” program and also helped design the program’s first Financial Services Career Exploration course.