The Embassy of the United States and the Dominican-American University successfully host the 2023 Annual Conference for English Teachers
Santo Domingo, Wednesday, November 15, 2023 – The Embassy of the United States and the Dominican-American University (UNICDA), through its professional development center, the Teacher Development Center (TDC), inaugurated the Annual Conference for English Teachers, with the theme “A Powerful Synergy in English Language Teaching.” The opening ceremony was attended by teachers from various public and private educational institutions across the country.
The inauguration was led by the Chargé d’Affaires, a.i. of the United States Embassy, Bryan Larson; the Executive Director of the National Institute of Teacher Training (INAFOCAM), Andrés de las Mercedes; the Vice Minister of Education, Jorge Adalberto Martínez; the Secretary of the Board of Directors of the Instituto Cultural Domínico Americano, Lucy Threan de Lamarche; and the Executive Director of ICDA and Rector of UNICDA, Eng. Ramón Sosa.
During her welcoming remarks, Mrs. Lucy Threan de Lamarche stated that this event “acts as a catalyst for excellence, fostering an environment where teachers can perfect their craft and inspire the next generation of leaders, thinkers, and communicators.”
The opening plenary session was delivered by Ricardo Azarcoya, a National Geographic explorer, and Mary Scholl, founder and member of the Institute for Collaborative Learning in Costa Rica.
The conference also included various workshops and concurrent sessions presented by national and international expert speakers, covering topics related to creating synergy in English language teaching to optimize learning.
Over the past year and a half, the Embassy of the United States, in collaboration with the Dominican-American University and its Teacher Development Center, has trained more than 1,500 English teachers nationwide in English language instruction, focusing on communicative approaches, evaluation, and reflective teaching practices. Additionally, a teaching support guide for English teachers titled “American English Guide” was created, featuring lessons tailored for each function of the national curriculum.
UNICDA students successfully complete Supervised Practicums in Foreign Languages
In an atmosphere of academic pride and celebration, students from the Bachelor’s Degree in Education program, Foreign Languages mention (English) at the Universidad Domínico Americano (UNICDA) successfully delivered the final presentation of their Supervised Practicums, marking the completion of a formative process that spanned from Practicum I to VI.
During the event, two research projects, led by Professor César Santil, were presented, highlighting the study titled “Implementing AI-Generated Didactic Resources for Dynamic Classroom Instruction,” which focused on the incorporation of artificial intelligence tools in language teaching.
Additionally, students from Supervised Practicum VI shared their experiences through formative workshops, where they presented innovative strategies applied in their educational sessions, showcasing their commitment to creative and modern teaching practices.
One of the most significant moments was the summary of the Supervised Practicums I-VI process, which demonstrated the progressive development of the future educators—from initial observation to the implementation of real classes—enhancing their pedagogical, communicative, and methodological competencies.
The event was attended and recognized by distinguished academic figures: Ligia Enríquez, Coordinator of the Education Program; Dr. Vilma Gerardo, Curriculum Coordinator; Solangel Meléndez, M.Ed., Instructor of Supervised Practicum VI; and Bélgica Ramírez, Head of the Initial Training Department at INAFOCAM.
Gastronomy II students from UNICDA shine with creativity and flavor in their Final Practicum
In a day filled with creativity, flavor, and excellence, students of the Gastronomy II course at the Universidad Domínico Americano (UNICDA) conducted their final practicum, showcasing a high level of technical skill and passion for the culinary arts.
Guided by Lic. María Alejandra Brunet, Coordinator of the School of Tourism and Hospitality, and Dr. Yuderka Monción, the course instructor, the students presented dishes that stood out not only for their quality but also for their originality and innovation.
Each creation demonstrated the future professionals’ commitment to the highest culinary standards. During the presentation, participants faced the challenge of working under pressure while maintaining excellence in presentation, flavor, and technique, impressing both the audience and the judges.
The event was honored by the distinguished presence of Eng. Ramón Sosa, Rector of UNICDA; Dr. Josefina Pepín Ubrí, Academic Vice-Rector; and Eng. Edwin Salazar, Director of Registration, who were part of the judging panel and praised the effort and talent of the students.
This final practicum not only served as an opportunity to showcase the knowledge acquired throughout the program but also as a space to reaffirm these young individuals’ dedication to culinary excellence and the development of tourism and hospitality in the country.
A significant achievement for UNICDA’s School of Tourism and Hospitality and a step towards a bright future for these passionate culinary enthusiasts.
UNICDA celebrates Extraordinary Graduation 2025
On April 2, 2025, in an atmosphere of pride and celebration, the Universidad Domínico Americano (UNICDA) held its Extraordinary Graduation ceremony, where a select group of students successfully completed their academic programs, receiving their degrees in various fields of knowledge.
During the event, graduates from the Bachelor’s Degree in English Teaching, Systems Engineering, the Specialization in Information Systems Management, and the Master’s Degree in Teaching English as a Foreign Language were honored, marking an important milestone in their professional journeys.
The event was presided over by Eng. Ramón Sosa, Rector of UNICDA, and Dr. Josefina Pepín Ubrí, Academic Vice-Rector. Also present at the ceremony were Eng. Edwin Salazar, Director of Registration; Lic. Ligia Henríquez, Coordinator of the School of Education; and Eng. Paola Martínez, Coordinator of the School of Engineering.
The graduates who participated in this ceremony were:
Bachelor’s Degree in English Teaching
Emmy Nicole Vásquez Quezada
Dashira Rayne Fung Andújar
José Antonio Pérez Pereyra
Yancarlos Vólquez Vólquez
Wanda Daniela Coats García
Yasiris De Los Santos Asencio
Systems Engineering
Natanael Guillermo Reyes Benjamín
Specialization in Information Systems Management
Arleny Deniss Marte Montero
Master’s Degree in Teaching English as a Foreign Language
David Vianney Hernández Polanco
Ysis Corina Florentino Durán
Keyla María Presinal Mendoza
From UNICDA, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to all the graduates for reaching this important goal. Your effort, dedication, and commitment reflect the academic excellence we promote as an institution.
Congratulations to our new professionals!
Social Pedagogy students, in celebration of International Children’s Book Day, organized a Reading Promotion activity for children
As part of the celebration of International Children’s Book Day, students from the Social Pedagogy program organized an inspiring activity aimed at fostering a love of reading among young children.
The future educators conducted various reading dynamics, creating spaces where stories came to life and imagination took center stage, emphasizing the importance of introducing books to children from an early age.
The activity reaffirmed the students’ commitment to the holistic development of childhood, using reading as a key tool for emotional, social, and cognitive growth.
UNICDA holds a discussion on technology and fundamental rights with distinguished guests
With the aim of reflecting on the challenges of the digital age and their relationship with fundamental rights, the Universidad Domínico Americano (UNICDA) hosted an enriching discussion in the institution’s Exhibition Hall.
The event was inaugurated with welcoming remarks by Dr. Josefina Pepín Ubrí, Academic Vice-Rector of UNICDA, who expressed her enthusiasm for hosting distinguished panelists and an audience committed to education and social change.
On this occasion, the event featured the participation of the Ombudsman, Pablo Ulloa, and data science expert, Darián Vargas, who addressed the topic: “Impact of Technological and Communication Tools on the Assurance of Fundamental Rights.” Both speakers provided valuable perspectives on how technology can be used ethically and strategically to strengthen human rights in diverse contexts.
The event was part of the University Defender Initiative, a project that promotes human rights education and ethical leadership within academia. Through innovative activities such as video game competitions, research, and volunteer programs, this initiative seeks to foster conscious digital citizenship.
Additionally, the program “Defensor Tec” was highlighted, a proposal that responds to contemporary challenges by promoting the responsible use of technologies as a means to protect and fully exercise fundamental rights.
The University thanked all attendees for their active participation and for contributing to a space of constructive dialogue on key issues for the development of a fairer and more informed society.
UNICDA participates in TESOL 2025 in Long Beach, California
The Universidad Domínico Americano (UNICDA) had an outstanding participation in TESOL 2025, one of the most important international events dedicated to innovation and professional development in teaching English as a second language.
This global gathering brought together experts, institutions, and educational leaders committed to the continuous improvement of teaching practices. UNICDA was part of this transformative experience alongside a commission of professionals in the field of education, reaffirming its commitment to academic excellence and the strengthening of strategic alliances.
Among the attendees were Giseh Cuesta, Director of Foreign Languages at MESCYT; Zomnia Schott, Academic Officer of MESCYT’s Immersion Program; and Ligia Henríquez, Head of Foreign Languages at MINERD, all reaffirming their dedication to academic excellence.
From UNICDA, participants included Professor Solangel Meléndez; Karlans Camacho, Coordinator of Projects and Programs at the Teacher Development Center; Gledis Libert, Academic Coordinator of the School of Languages; Joyce Calderón, Coordinator of Junior Programs; and Mr. Luis Marrero, Evaluation Coordinator of the Directorate of Quality Assurance.
During the event, UNICDA representatives exchanged experiences, knowledge, and best practices with professionals from around the world, thereby strengthening institutional strategies for teacher training and foreign language teaching in the country.
This participation not only reaffirms UNICDA’s leadership in the educational field but also opens new opportunities for international collaboration, methodological updates, and professional growth.
Speaker On: An Experience in Communication Skills
On March 15th, the Universidad Domínico Americano (UNICDA) hosted a unique event: Speaker On, held in our Patrick N. Hughson Auditorium. This gathering brought together prominent leaders, communicators, and content creators with the goal of elevating their communication skills to the next level.
Under the guidance of neurocoach Carlos León, participants had the opportunity to delve into advanced storytelling techniques, effective strategies for captivating audiences, and practical tools rooted in neuroscience, all aimed at enhancing their ability to connect and communicate more powerfully.
Dr. Josefina Pepín Ubrí, Academic Vice-Chancellor of UNICDA, and Lic. Alicia Carlo, Vice-Chancellor of Extension, attended the event, reinforcing the university’s commitment to professional development and the training of leaders in the field of communication.
Additionally, senior students from the Bachelor’s Degree in English Teaching actively participated during the day.
This event stood out as a transformative experience, not only for the knowledge gained but also for the networking and personal growth opportunities it offered to attendees.
The Dominican-American Cultural Institute names its Student Plaza in honor of Mrs. Engracia Franjul de Abate
The Dominican-American Cultural Institute (ICDA) held a heartfelt event to name the institution’s Student Plaza in honor of Mrs. Engracia Franjul de Abate, recognizing her invaluable dedication, work, love for education, and commitment to the institution over the course of 38 years.
The event was led by Mrs. Darys Estrella, President of the ICDA Board of Directors, who delivered the welcome speech. In her address, she highlighted Mrs. Engracia Franjul de Abate’s career, emphasizing her commitment to education and tireless work in empowering underprivileged communities. “Her legacy is a testament to a life dedicated to service, education, and social transformation,” Estrella expressed.
The ceremony was attended by distinguished individuals, including members of the ICDA Board of Directors, family and friends of Mrs. Engracia Franjul de Abate, as well as collaborators and members of the educational community.
As part of the tribute, Mrs. Elizabeth de Windt, who served as Executive Director of the Dominican-American Cultural Institute from 1991 to 2013, presented a portrait of Mrs. Engracia Franjul de Abate. Later, the commemorative plaque was unveiled, officially designating the ICDA Student Plaza with her name.
Mr. Frank Abate, representing the family, gave an emotional speech of gratitude, highlighting his mother’s love and commitment to education and the community.
The ceremony concluded with an invitation for attendees to enjoy an exhibition featuring Salvador and Engracia de Abate’s pictographic collection in the institution’s Exhibition Hall.
Through this designation, the Dominican-American Cultural Institute pays eternal tribute to a visionary and exemplary woman whose impact will continue to inspire future generations of students and professionals.