Emmy-nominated Creator Speaks to MCC Students

On Thursday, September 24, Middlesex Community College welcomed Susie Jaramillo, an Emmy-nominated director, artist, entrepreneur and creator of “Canticos.” Hosted by the college’s Center for Community Healing and Transformation, the event was entitled “Your Story, Your Path: Turning Identity, Creativity and Opportunity into Possibility” in celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month.

“I’m looking forward to sharing with students what I wish someone had shared with me at their age,” Jaramillo said. “Thirty years of learning in 45 minutes, so they head out into the world a little wiser. The universe has been good to me, and I'm hoping to pay it forward.”

During the event, Jaramillo shared about her journey from working in marketing and creative strategy to becoming an illustrator, author, content creator and Emmy-nominated entrepreneur. Her conversation focused on how she transformed her ideas and creative vision into meaningful opportunities, built brands that celebrate culture, and created a career that reflects her passions and purpose.

Students were invited to explore their own stories, strengths, identities and possibilities. They also were asked to consider how they can turn those experiences into a path forward as they consider their next steps.

Following the conversation, participants attended a coffee conversation to ask questions and connect with Jaramillo. They learned more about her career journey, talked about culture and identity, explored career options, and spoke about the power of storytelling.

As an emerging Hispanic-Serving Institution, MCC is proud to celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month. The month offers an opportunity for the college to honor the histories, cultures, contributions and lived experiences of Hispanic and Latino communities. The event with Jaramillo provided an opportunity for the MCC community to come together to honor, learn, engage and explore through storytelling, according to Maria Gariepy, MCC’s Executive Director of Strategic Priorities & Professional Development.

“Hosting conversations like this during Hispanic Heritage Month allows us to celebrate heritage while also connecting it to possibility,” Gariepy said. “When our students hear directly from leaders like Susie Jaramillo about the story behind the success – including the risks, pivots and experiences that shaped their journeys – they can see their own identities and lived experiences as assets and envision new possibilities for their own careers and futures.”