Spanish language students honored at state conference
Four Indiana University Kokomo students received honors from the Indiana Foreign Language Teachers Association at its annual conference.
Jacob Shively and Samir Lopez each received the I am the Next Language Teacher award, Karedis Araujo received the I Am the Next Bilingual Nurse and Medical Interpreter award, and Juliana Estrada received the I am the Next Bilingual Leader award.
J.R. Pico, teaching professor in Spanish and humanities, congratulated the students.
“This is the result of our hard work and dedication to promoting the study of language and especially Spanish at our campus,” he said. “It is obvious there is an immediate need to possess knowledge of Spanish anywhere in the nation, and in any field of study. Many students are aware of that because they sometimes take courses in Spanish even if their majors do not require it.”
Araujo, from Carmel, earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing in December. She said the award represents purpose, identity, and calling for her, and affirms the value of language as a bridge to compassionate healthcare for all patients.
“As a bilingual nurse, I have the privilege of advocating for patients who might otherwise feel unheard, confused, or vulnerable in medical settings,” she said. “This award reminds me that language is not just communication, it is dignity, safety, and trust. It motivates me to lead with empathy, cultural humility, and excellence, and to continue serving all communities with both clinical skill and heartfelt understanding.”
Estrada, a communications major from Whitestown, said her award serves as a motivator for herself and other students.
“Awards like this remind us that our hard work, dedication, and commitment do not go unnoticed,” she said. “For students, recognition affirms that our efforts matter and that the time we invest in our communities truly makes a difference.”
Estrada’s leadership award honored her service in campus organizations, including Latinos Unidos. That experience allowed her to meet mentors and peers who shaped her understanding of leadership and advocacy.
“They motivated me to encourage other students to recognize the value of education, especially bilingual education, as a tool for empowerment and opportunity,” she said. “Being able to represent Latino students and help them navigate campus, while also connecting them and their families with resources, has been the most meaningful part of my journey. This award represents not just my work, but the strength, resilience, and potential of the community I am proud to serve.”
Lopez is completing the Division of Education’s Transition to Teaching Award and teaches Spanish in the Kokomo area.
“For me, receiving this award means that my hard work and dedication to promoting language learning, cultural awareness, and student growth is being recognized by my colleagues whom I respect and admire very much,” he said, adding a special thank you to Pico, who taught his teaching methodologies class.
“I feel honored and blessed for being included in this strong community of world language teachers who are committed to excellence,” Lopez said. “It has motivated me to continue advocating for language teaching and to inspire others to value language learning.”
Shively, from Kokomo, is completing a major in English at IU Kokomo, as well as a major in Spanish from IU Online. As someone who learned Spanish from classes and personal studies, he was pleased to receive the honor. Attending the award program inspired him to study languages diligently.
“Many of the recipients of this award spoke three or more languages at an advanced level. What an incredible feat,” he said. “I am honored to be counted among these bright people, and I will continue to improve my language skills and help cultivate a passion for language studies in my future students. This award represents a milestone in what I have learned so far, and a reminder that languages require a commitment to lifelong learning.”
Chris Darr, dean of the School of Humanities and Social Sciences, said he’s proud of their accomplishments.
“Language is fundamental to culture, and learning a foreign language helps us to understand others,” he said. “Cultural understanding is more important than ever, and foreign language skills are in high demand with employers. These students are showing what is possible when you invest the time and effort. I also want to recognize Professor J.R. Pico for his mentorship. His tireless support and advocacy are great for all our students, and is much appreciated.”
Education is KEY at Indiana University Kokomo.