Barry University's Institute for Immigration Studies presents its 2nd Annual Conference, "South Florida: The Hub for Immigration Innovation and Integration," a transformative two-day event celebrating our region's vibrant immigrant experience (April 9-10, 2025).
Day one opens with insights from community organizations and a keynote by David Lawrence Jr., founding chair of The Children's Trust. The afternoon features critical discussions on immigration law, culminating in an elegant evening concert "Miami Fusion" with international violinist Kostia Lucky and pianist Armen Martirosyan, honoring Operation Pedro Pan Group.
Day two explores healthcare and social integration, featuring United Way Miami CEO Symeria Hudson and renowned chef Juan Chipoco of CEVICHE 105 sharing his immigrant journey through culinary traditions. The conference concludes with innovative research presentations and an interactive art workshop.
Throughout both days, attendees can experience "The Whole World is Churning," a powerful exhibition curated by Rosie Gordon Wallace, founder of Diaspora Vibe Cultural Arts Incubator, at the Monsignor Barry Library.
Join community leaders, scholars, and cultural innovators at Barry University's Miami Shores campus for this unique exploration of immigration's vital role in shaping South Florida's future. Continental breakfast and lunch provided.
REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED.
AGENDA
April 10th, Thursday, Andreas 112
09:00-9:50 AM – Registration and Networking Continental Breakfast
10:00 AM-10:50 AM - Social Determinants of Health and Impacts on Immigrant Communities
Moderator: Dr. Maria Teahan, PhD, ACSW, LCSW, CTS, CCTP. Professor of Social Work at Barry University.
Speakers:
• Irvin Flores, LMFT, MFT/MHC-QS, Associate District Director, Administration of Re-adjustment Counseling Services, Department of Veterans Affairs.
• Symeria Hudson, President and CEO of United Way Miami.
A group of experts will explore various perspectives on health and social challenges within the context of global migration.
11:00 AM-11:50 AM – Keynote Speaker Juan Chipoco, renowned Peruvian chef and entrepreneur, owner of CVI CHE 105: Inspiring Personal Stories of South Florida Immigrants “Culinary Traditions, a powerful means of integration.”
12:00 PM -12:50 PM, Monsignor Barry Library - Lunch/Exhibit Walkthrough "The Whole World is Churning", DVCAI curated by Rosie Gordon Wallace, a recognized curator, arts advocate, community leader and pioneer in advancing contemporary diaspora art.
1:00-2:20 PM, Andreas 112 - Immigration, Interventions, Acculturation in Adolescence
Moderator: Dr. Sabrina Des Rosiers, Barry University Department of Psychology Professor & Department Chair. Speakers:
• Dr. Yannine Estrada, PhD, MSEd. “Familias Unidas: An evidence-based intervention for Hispanic youth to prevent negative health behaviors”.
• Dr. Justin Lauro, Assistant Professor of Psychology at Barry University.
Barry University Student Research posters.
2:30 PM – “Your Fiber on Paper"
A paper making workshop led by multi-disciplinary artist and art educator Shawna Moulton, Norton Museum and DVCAI.