Stacy Vazquez

Throughout her time at MIT, Stacy has demonstrated great commitment to making our campus a home for Latino students. Through her participation in cultural clubs like CAFÉ (Central American and Caribbean Friendship and Engagement) and Casino Rueda, or academic programs like the MLC (Math Learning Center), Physics Mentorship Program, and the TSR^2 (Talented Scholars’ Resource Room), Stacy has strengthened the Latino and underrepresented community at MIT. Her first endeavor was as a mentor for the Physics Department. Stacy held this position for three fall semesters, where she worked with first-year students enrolled in 8.01. In this role, she sought to be an adviser and friend to her mentees, as she understood the difficulties of being a freshman at this institution. The impact she observed on her mentees motivated her to take on similar positions in the MLC and the TSR^2. Stacy’s vision for her work is to ensure that all students feel confident in their ability to succeed academically. Beyond her professional pursuits, Stacy has contributed significantly to cultural clubs associated with the LCC (Latino Cultural Center). Her most notable involvement is as an officer of Casino Rueda and CAFÉ. She is currently Performance Coordinator for Casino Rueda, where she organizes and choreographs Cuban salsa performances around campus. Last fall, Stacy was social chair for CAFÉ. Throughout the semester, she planned events that highlighted Central American and Caribbean culture. Moreover, Stacy is involved in the Latin Dance Club and has served as a Mexican Folklorico performer at Cena a las Seis, an event held by the LCC during Parents’ Weekend. All these experiences have led Stacy to found her own educational organization, GuidEd by Stacy, which hosts the SAPS (STEM Advancement Program by Stacy) bootcamp. In this bootcamp, she teaches STEM concepts to prospective and incoming students. Her service to MIT and our student body have made a lasting impact on Stacy’s long-term goals and dreams. She hopes that her work during her undergraduate career has helped make a better home for Latino and all students.