In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, celebrated from September 15 to October 15, we’re spotlighting two incredible RTC employees who proudly represent the richness of the Hispanic community: Jennifer Sarellano from Human Resources and David Gloria from Purchasing and Contracts.
Jennifer, a first-generation American of Mexican descent, was raised with strong values focused on family, hard work, and resilience. Growing up with the benefit of seeing both cultures shaped her identity, giving her a deep appreciation for her roots. She celebrates her heritage year-round through traditions like building an ofrenda for Day of the Dead or preparing homemade dishes like pozole and sopas. For Jennifer, these customs are about preserving stories and recipes passed down through generations. Christmas is especially cherished in her family. The two-day celebration is filled with laughter, games, comforting dishes, and lots of quality family time.
David, a Mexican American with roots in New Mexico, shares a deep pride in where his community comes from, how much they’ve overcome, and outstanding achievements like the appointment of a Latina Supreme Court Justice. While he doesn’t observe Hispanic Heritage Month with specific traditions, he values RTC’s cultural awareness and the opportunity to celebrate the diversity within the Hispanic community. His favorite memories include holidays and birthdays where food played a central role in bringing people together.
Both Jennifer and David take pride in their heritage, not just for the food and festivities, but for the deep cultural roots and history that shape their identities. They remind us of the importance of honoring where we come from and embracing that cultural richness every day.
