Embracing Latina Leadership Alliances (ELLAS) will host its 2nd Annual Conference – 21st Century Latinas; “A Journey From Good To Greatness” – 2007 Dulcinea Awards today at the Westin Long Beach Hotel from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

ELLAS invited 500 Latinas from the Long Beach Unified School District to join 200 Latino professionals to provide exposure and inspiration to the students.  The conference is designed to promote education, leadership development and mentorship opportunities for Long Beach Latinas.

Nancy Foster (First Lady of Long Beach), Carol Ortega (LBUSD), and Mistress of Ceremony Agapi Stassinopolus (Women’s Foundation of California) will be featured speakers at the event.

ELLAS was formed to address the need for mentors, stronger educational matriculation rates and leadership development opportunities to benefit Latina high school students interested in pursuing higher education and 21st Century careers.  Seven exemplary Latina role models will be honored for their achievements and accomplishments.

“I am proud of ELLAS’ continued growth, the executive board of director’s commitment and the continued sponsor and partners, which continue to prove invaluable in providing educational leadership development and mentoring programs for deserving high school Latinas,” said Pilar Pinel, ELLAS Founder/President.