Category: News

The Dominican-American Cultural Institute (ICDA) and the Dominican Confederation of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (CODOPYME) formalized a cooperation agreement, aimed at promoting training, innovation, and competitiveness in the MSME sector.

The agreement was signed by engineer Ramón Sosa, Executive Director of ICDA and Rector of UNICDA, and Mr. Fernando Pinales, President of CODOPYME, reaffirming the commitment of both institutions to the academic and business development of the country.

Through this alliance, the Dominican-American University (UNICDA) will play an essential role in the design and execution of academic programs, diplomas, joint certifications, research projects, professional internships, and university-business linkage actions.

The agreement includes initiatives in applied research, specialized training, academic mobility, internationalization of MSMEs, digital transformation, youth entrepreneurship, and cultural activities, in addition to academic benefits for employees and members of CODOPYME and their dependents.

With this collaboration, we reaffirm our commitment to quality education, innovation, and the strengthening of business development in the Dominican Republic.

The United States Embassy and the Domínico Americano University host the 2025 Annual English Teachers Conference

The United States Embassy and the Domínico Americano University (UNICDA), through its Teacher Development Center (TDC), inaugurated the 2025 Annual English Teachers Conference, an academic gathering that fosters innovation, reflection, and the exchange of best practices in English language teaching.

With the theme “SMART Teaching in ELT: Strategies for Effective Teaching Practices”, the conference seeks to strengthen teachers’ pedagogical competencies through an approach that integrates five essential dimensions: Strategic teaching, Measurable learning assessment, Adaptive methodologies, Contextual relevance, and the use of Educational technology.

The opening ceremony was led by Chelsia Hetrick, Public Affairs Counselor of the United States Embassy in Santo Domingo, and Darys Estrella, Chair of the Board of Directors of the Instituto Cultural Domínico Americano, together with distinguished authorities from the Ministry of Education (MINERD), the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Technology (MESCYT), and the National Institute for Teacher Training and Development (INAFOCAM).

In her welcoming remarks, Ms. Estrella emphasized that “learning English has been, since the origins of our institution, a tool for connecting cultures, a path to professional growth, and a bridge to a world of greater opportunities. This conference celebrates the vocation of those who make this transformative process possible: the teachers.” For her part, Chelsia Hetrick affirmed that the United States Embassy continues to support the community of English teachers in the Dominican Republic with training, resources, and professional networks such as this one. She also highlighted that turning pedagogical intent into processes and results is key to advancing toward teaching that is more strategic, measurable, adaptive, relevant, and technological.

The opening plenary session was delivered by Dr. Marvin Cardoza, an economist with expertise in macroeconomics, taxation, and labor, who addressed the impact of the English Immersion Program on the competitiveness of the Dominican Republic. Other plenary speakers include Dr. Joan Kang Shin and Brenda Pineda, experts in pedagogical innovation and technology applied to language learning.

The three-day program —from November 13 to 15— combines virtual and in-person sessions, including workshops, lectures, presentations, and spaces for exchange among educators from across the country. The Saturday, November 15 program featured more than 20 simultaneous sessions at the Catalonia Hotel Convention Center.

Through this conference, the Domínico Americano University reaffirms its commitment to contributing to teacher professionalization and the continuous improvement of English language teaching in the Dominican Republic, strengthening the institutional mission of the Instituto Cultural Domínico Americano as a binational benchmark of educational excellence and cultural cooperation.

MESCyT and UNICDA hold a panel on the leadership and significance of women in Dominican higher education

Santo Domingo, D.N. — November 11, 2025. The Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Technology (MESCyT), in collaboration with the Domínico Americano University (UNICDA), held on Tuesday the panel “Women in Dominican Higher Education: Leadership, Transformation, and Significance”, with the purpose of recognizing and highlighting the role of women in the academic, scientific, and social development of the country.

The event, held at UNICDA’s Patrick N. Hughson Auditorium, was led by Dr. Franklin García Fermín, Minister of MESCyT, and Engineer Ramón Sosa, Rector of the Domínico Americano University, along with representatives from the academic, public, and private sectors, as well as female rectors, researchers, and university authorities.

Engineer Ramón Sosa, Rector of UNICDA, delivered the welcoming remarks and expressed the honor it represents for the university to serve as the stage for a dialogue that transcends the academic sphere.

“Today we gather with an inspiring and reflective approach, to celebrate the achievements, voices, and contributions of women who, through higher education, have transformed the academic and social life of our country,” he stated.

The Rector also recalled the legacy of pioneers such as Salomé Ureña de Henríquez and Evangelina Rodríguez, emphasizing that “women do not merely participate: they lead, innovate, and transform the Dominican higher education system.”

On behalf of the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Technology (MESCyT), Vice Minister of Higher Education, Dr. Carmen Evarista Matías Pérez, highlighted the importance of this panel as a space for reflection on female leadership in Dominican higher education.

“This gathering aims to make visible the achievements attained by women in Dominican universities and to reflect on the challenges that persist in ensuring their full participation in academic, research, and innovation life,” expressed the Vice Minister.

She also underscored the sustained growth of female presence in the country’s universities, which today exceeds 70% of the student body, and emphasized that women “are increasingly occupying top leadership positions in universities and other educational institutions, shining brightly, like stars in the firmament of higher education.”

The program of the event was developed in two thematic blocks. The first panel, entitled “Challenges of Female Academic Leadership in Dominican HEIs: Lessons and Reflections”, brought together Dr. Odile Camilo, Rector of Universidad Iberoamericana (UNIBE); Dr. Josefina Pimentel, Rector of the Instituto Global de Altos Estudios en Ciencias Sociales (IGLOBAL); Dr. Altagracia Núñez, Rector of the Universidad de la Tercera Edad (UTE); and Lic. Marien Beard, Rector of the Instituto Superior Escuela Nacional del Ministerio Público (IES-ENMP). The session was moderated by Dr. Josefina Pepín, Academic Vice Rector of UNICDA.

The second panel, under the theme “Situation and Perspectives of Dominican Women Researchers: Where Are We and Where Are We Headed?”, featured Dr. Ysabel Noemí Tejeda, from Universidad Autónoma de Santo Domingo (UASD); Dr. Leyda Brea, from Pontificia Universidad Católica Madre y Maestra (PUCMM); Dr. Celsa Albert, from Universidad Católica de Santo Domingo (UCSD); Dr. Dinorah Mejía Tejada, from Universidad Central del Este (UCE); and Dr. Yanet Jiminián Mata, from Universidad Abierta para Adultos (UAPA). The session was moderated by Dr. Helen Hasbún, professor at the School of Social Communication of UASD.

The academic day was part of the activities organized by the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Technology (MESCyT) and the Domínico Americano University (UNICDA), on the occasion of the Month for the Elimination of Violence Against Women.

The gathering reaffirmed the commitment of both institutions to promoting equal opportunities, strengthening research, and recognizing women as key agents of transformation in Dominican higher education.

UNICDA held the fourth edition of its Job Fair, “UNICDA Connect”

The Universidad Domínico Americano (UNICDA) successfully held the fourth edition of its Job Fair, “UNICDA Conecta”, a space that strengthened ties between students, graduates, and partner companies, promoting employment opportunities, professional development, and closer collaboration between academia and the country’s productive sector.

The opening ceremony was led by UNICDA’s Academic Vice-Rector, Dr. Josefina Pepín, accompanied by directors, academic coordinators, faculty members, and members of the university community.

In her welcome remarks, Dr. Pepín emphasized that “UNICDA Conecta represents much more than a job fair; it is the celebration of the meeting between the talent shaped by our university and the opportunities that drive business and social development in the Dominican Republic.” She also added that the event symbolizes “an open door to the future, where every conversation, contact, and learning experience can become a new goal or professional alliance.”

Throughout the day, attendees had the opportunity to interact with representatives from fourteen companies and institutions, including the Superintendence of Pensions (SIPEN), GLOEX, Cardinal Health, Planeta Azul, Contact Center Dominicana (CCD), Grupo Peravia Industrial, AccuMED, Data Vimenca, AFP Reservas, Horatio, Manpower Group, ProVirtual, Grupo Olé, AFP Popular, and ICG Impresión y Creatividad.

In addition to recruitment and networking spaces, the fair featured a comprehensive program of talks and conferences on key topics for professional development, such as alternative credentials, workplace responsibility, financial planning, mental health at work, interview preparation, vocational guidance, and entrepreneurship.

“This gathering reflects our institutional commitment to employability, engagement, and holistic education,” stressed Dr. Pepín. “UNICDA Conecta is the living expression of our educational mission: to train professionals capable of transforming their environment and building, with their talent and values, a more competitive, humane, and supportive country.”

The “UNICDA Conecta” Job Fair is part of the strategic actions outlined in the university’s 2023–2025 Strategic Plan, under the pillar “Engagement and alliances to generate social impact,” which promotes strengthening relationships with alumni, fostering strategic partnerships, and positioning UNICDA as a bicultural bridge between academic training and professional opportunities.

With this fourth edition, the Universidad Domínico Americano reaffirms its purpose of supporting its students and graduates on their path to professional development, fostering spaces for connection, learning, and inspiration that contribute to the strengthening of national talent.

UNICDA celebrates its 22nd Ordinary Graduation Ceremony 2025

The Dominican-American University (UNICDA) proudly celebrated its 22nd Ordinary Graduation Ceremony in a heartfelt event held at the Patrick N. Hughson Auditorium of the Dominican-American Cultural Institute (ICDA). The ceremony marked a significant milestone in the lives of dozens of graduates who successfully completed a key stage in their professional development.

The event was led by Eng. Ramón Sosa, Rector of UNICDA, who delivered an inspiring speech urging graduates to embrace their new roles as professionals and global citizens with responsibility. “It’s not just about getting a job, but about making an impact,” Sosa stated, emphasizing the importance of acting with integrity, social commitment, and clear purpose in a constantly evolving world.

Representing the Class of 2025, student Candy Lisbeth Mejía Then—majoring in English Education and recipient of the Highest Academic Honor—delivered a moving speech highlighting the value of perseverance, family support, and the transformative power of education. Quoting Paulo Freire, she affirmed, “Education doesn’t change the world, it changes the people who will change the world,” encouraging her peers to keep dreaming with determination.

One of the most memorable moments of the ceremony was the presentation of awards to graduates with outstanding academic achievements. The honors were presented by Mrs. Mari Carmen Orizondo, member of the Board of Directors of the Dominican-American Cultural Institute (ICDA).

The event was attended by distinguished authorities and institutional collaborators, including:

Dr. José A. Cancel, Deputy Minister of Administration and Finance at the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Technology (MESCyT)

Dr. Josefina Pepín, Academic Vice-Rector of UNICDA

Eng. Edwin Salazar, Director of University Records

Lic. María Alejandra Brunet, MA, Coordinator of the Business Administration and Tourism Department

Lic. Ligia Henríquez, MA, Coordinator of the Education Department

Eng. Paola Martínez, MA, Coordinator of the Engineering Programs

Dr. Alexandra García, Coordinator of the Graduate Unit in Education

The evening concluded with a memorable performance by UNICDA’s Mixed Choir, which offered two musical pieces as an artistic finale to a night of celebration.

With this ceremony, UNICDA reaffirms its commitment to academic excellence and the development of ethical professionals prepared to make a positive impact on Dominican society and beyond.

Alliance between the Instituto Cultural Domínico Americano and Bellas Artes for culture and education

The Instituto Cultural Domínico Americano (ICDA) and the General Directorate of Fine Arts (DGBA) formalized a significant agreement to continue expanding cultural and educational opportunities for society.

The signing of the agreement was attended by Eng. Ramón Antonio Sosa, Executive Director of the ICDA; Rosa Bobea, Finance Director; Robert Valcín, Director of the School of Languages; and Sofía Otero, Director of Culture. Representing the DGBA were Marinella Sallent, General Director of Fine Arts; Elsa Liranzo, Coordinator of Interinstitutional Relations; and Kenia Rondón, Head of the Legal Division.

This alliance strengthens the ties between both institutions through workshops, performances, and joint projects in areas such as art, music, dance, and theater, enriching the cultural life of our community.

As part of the benefits, participants will have facilities to pursue the Artistic Education degree at UNICDA, supporting their academic and professional development.

This agreement constitutes a true bridge of language, culture, and art, promoting mutual support and the development of new opportunities for growth.

UNICDA Sustainable carried out its planting day in La Vega

This year, the Dominican-American University (UNICDA), through its UNICDA Sustainable initiative, extended its environmental commitment to the province of La Vega, where a new ecological volunteer day was held with the active participation of graduating students from undergraduate programs.

The activity brought together dedicated young people who, with enthusiasm and a sense of social responsibility, joined forces to plant trees and contribute to the environmental regeneration of the area. Each tree planted represents a concrete action for the planet’s future and a symbol of our university community’s commitment to sustainable development.

This event not only strengthened the bonds among participants but also promoted values such as teamwork, environmental stewardship, and active citizenship.

We were honored by the presence and support of academic and administrative authorities, including Dr. Martha Campusano – Academic Management Coordinator, and Eng. Paola Martínez – Systems/Software Engineering Coordinator, as well as members of the administrative team, who actively accompanied and supported this meaningful initiative.

From UNICDA, we deeply thank every volunteer who took part in this transformative activity, leaving a green footprint that goes beyond the classroom and reaches toward a more sustainable future.

From the Classroom to the Marketplace: UNICDA Professors Receive Training in Innovation, Intellectual Property, and Technology Transfer

In an atmosphere of collaboration and academic projection, UNICDA faculty members participated in the General Meeting of Teachers, titled “From the Classroom to the Market,” a session designed to strengthen the connection between academic work and market opportunities.

The event featured the valuable participation of Ing. Jofiel Castillo, Head of the Support Center for Technology and Innovation at the National Office of Industrial Property (ONAPI), who delivered a presentation filled with practical insights on intellectual property, technology transfer, and the role of university educators in innovation and academic entrepreneurship.

During the session, professors shared concerns and meaningful contributions on how to transform their projects into inventions with the potential to be registered or patented, demonstrating a clear interest in applying knowledge beyond the classroom. Their active engagement confirmed the success of the event’s purpose: to revive ideas, stimulate creativity, and promote the vision of an innovative educator.

The meeting also welcomed several academic authorities, including:

Dr. Josefina Pepín – Academic Vice-Rector

Ing. Edwin Salazar – Director of Registry

Lic. Rubí Bretón – Director of Research, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship

Lic. María Brunet – Coordinator of the School of Tourism

Ing. Paola Martínez – Coordinator of Systems/Software Engineering

Dr. Vilma Gerardo – Director of Academic and Curricular Management

Dr. Ligia Henríquez – Coordinator of Education Programs

Dr. Alexandra García – Coordinator of the Master’s Program in Teaching English as a Foreign Language

Dr. Martha Campusano Rojas – Coordinator of Academic Management

We extend our heartfelt thanks to all the educators who participated and helped make this session a space for reflection, learning, and projection toward an academy more connected to innovation and national development.