Susana Benites is a passionate educator, mother, and advocate for bilingualism and cultural immersion. As a Co-Executive Director of ISLA NC, she is dedicated to cultivating Latino leaders through the lens of cultural and language justice. With a degree in Special Education from the Women’s University of the Sacred Heart and training in Diagnostics and Intervention in Children with Speech Difficulties from San Marcos University in Lima, Peru, Susana brings a wealth of expertise to her role. Her experience as a Dual Language Teacher in Durham for five years and a heritage language teacher at ISLA underscores her commitment to bilingual education and preserving cultural heritage. In 2019, Susana became the Director of Education Programs at ISLA, where she has led with vision and dedication. She also develops ISLA’s curriculum, focusing on cultural education, inquiry, and an interdisciplinary approach. As a proud Latina and mother of an Afro-Latine son, Susana is deeply invested in creating culturally affirming spaces for Latine students, educators, and families. Susana’s leadership and advocacy continue to advance ISLA’s mission, empowering Latine youth and families through transformative heritage language immersion programs.