HISPANIC HERITAGE FOUNDATION LOFT INNOVATION TRACK CODE AS A SECOND LANGUAGE (CSL) Code as a Second Language (CSL) is a national campaign that works towards introducing youth to computer programming, technical training and careers accessible to women and underrepresented minorities. The initiative addresses America's need for creating a more diverse pool of talent in the tech industry. CSL provides the opportunity for interested schools to bring CSL programs onto their respective campuses, since 9 of 10 schools do not teach computer programming. It is through the CSL site that we will be able to create a more intentional and strategic connection between technology professionals and schools across the nation. For more information, please visit www.loftcsl.org.

ESA LOFT VIDEO GAME INNOVATION FELLOWSHIP The Entertainment Software Association (ESA) and LOFT partner to select 20 minority students as Video Game Innovation fellows based on games and apps they develop to address social change in their community. The fellows, ages 15-25, visit Washington, DC to meet with Members of Congress and White House representatives to expose their vision. They are also awarded a grant to further develop their projects to ensure that we engage youth on their terms.

“There is an innovative tinge to playing video games – it just needs to be bridged.” – Antonio

Tijerino, President & CEO, HHF

LOFT STEM LEADERSHIP SYMPOSIA

The Hispanic Heritage Foundation (HHF) in partnership with the U.S. Army, CVS Caremark Workforce Initiatives, Exxon Mobil, Google, OCI Group, and Southwest Airlines (the Official Airline for LOFT) host Latinos On Fast Track (LOFT) STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) Symposia in 10 regions across America. This symposium provides career path guidance, educational opportunities and connectivity for students and young professionals in the STEM fields. The program features dynamic, exclusive leadership trainings, led by the Army, designed to help student-leaders define their role within their schools or organizations and encourage them to make an impact on their communities.

YOUTH AWARDS- INNOVATION & TECHNOLOGY

The category of Innovation and Technology for the Youth Awards, sponsored by the Entertainment Software Association (ESA), awards three students in each of our ten markets with a bronze, silver, and gold medallion respectively. The Youth Awards recognize the academic performance, community involvement, leadership, and focus on the “innovation” track by celebrating the awardees with a high-profile ceremony, an educational grant, and the opportunity to be selected as the national winner for the Innovation & Technology at the National Youth Awards ceremony.

LOFTNETWORK.ORG

A platform with a reach of over 10,000 young professionals and “Track” experts committed to workforce diversity and advancement of

technology.

COMING SOON: LOFT LABS

LOFT’s incubator initiative to

support finance and investment in upcoming start-ups and tech

programs.

ESA Fellow Marilu Duque

Coding Jam in Austin, TX

Hispanic Heritage Foundation 1001 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Suite 11115, Washington, DC

www.HispanicHeritage.org Miami | Los Angeles | East Lansing, MI | New York | Washington, DC