The Instituto Cultural Domínico Americano opens a new branch of its Language School in La Vega
The Instituto Cultural Domínico Americano (ICDA) celebrated the inauguration of its new Language School branch in the city of La Vega, as part of its strategic academic expansion plan and commitment to teaching the English language.
The inaugural event brought together institutional authorities, collaborators, students, representatives of the local educational community, and provincial leaders, who enthusiastically attended the opening of this new educational space located at the Eugenio María de Hostos School on García Godoy Avenue.
The central speech of the event was delivered by Eng. Ramón Sosa, Executive Director of the Instituto Cultural Domínico Americano, who highlighted the significance of this new branch as part of ICDA’s commitment to educational excellence and the development of key competencies in a globalized world.
“This step we are taking today in La Vega represents a commitment to the talent of our people, their ability to communicate beyond borders, and their right to an education that opens doors,” said Eng. Sosa. “With this new branch, we reaffirm our vocation of service, bringing learning opportunities closer to more communities in our country.”
The Language School of the Instituto Cultural Domínico Americano stands out for its communicative approach, highly qualified teaching staff, and updated programs for children, adolescents, and adults, aligned with international standards in teaching English as a second language.
The blessing of the new administrative and academic offices was conducted by Reverend Father Francisco Antonio Jiménez Rosario from the Immaculate Conception Cathedral of La Vega.
With this opening, the Instituto Cultural Domínico Americano continues to strengthen its national presence, with branches in the National District, Santo Domingo Este, Santo Domingo Norte, San Pedro de Macorís, La Romana, Higüey, Baní, San Francisco de Macorís, Puerto Plata, and now in La Vega. These, along with its virtual programs, provide thousands of students with the opportunity to transform their lives through learning the English language.
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.
Students from the Spanish as a Foreign Language program receive an award for outstanding work in the Quisqueya Rally
Our talented students from the Spanish as a Foreign Language program have been recognized for their exceptional work, dedication, and outstanding performance in creating a video during their visit to the historic Colonial Zone. A true demonstration of effort and creativity!
The three winning groups were honored for capturing, in such a professional and original way, the unique essence of this beautiful place, full of history, culture, and charm. Their results not only reflect their hard work but also their ability to convey the richness of the Dominican Republic’s cultural heritage through their lenses.
We congratulate all participants and especially the winning groups for their remarkable work! This award reflects their dedication and passion for learning and sharing the Spanish language and culture. We are confident that these young talents will continue to shine in every new project!
Students of the Spanish as a Foreign Language program experience the Rally Quisqueya in the Colonial Zone
Students of the Spanish as a Foreign Language program experience the Rally Quisqueya in the Colonial Zone The ‘Spanish as a Foreign Language’ program had an unforgettable day at the first Rally Quisqueya of 2025, an experience that took our students to the historic Colonial Zone of Santo Domingo. During this activity, participants had the […]
Christmas Show of Playful Learning: A Celebration of Joy and Talent
The Christmas Show of our little ones at Playful Learning was a true Christmas gift full of creativity, joy, and moments that will be etched in our memory.
Each presentation and song took us to the magical spirit of Christmas, highlighting the incredible talent and enthusiasm of our students. Their smiles, voices, and energy were the center of a day that celebrated unity and effort.
We deeply thank the parents for being part of this special event, for applauding every moment, and for sharing with us the pride of seeing their children shine.
Thank you all for making this Christmas Show a success that will not be forgotten!
Students of the Spanish as a Foreign Language program organize a gastronomic fair
Our students in the Spanish as a Foreign Language program had an unforgettable experience participating in a multicultural gastronomic fair. In this event, each group proudly represented their country of origin, showcasing the richness of their cultures, traditions, and dishes, all expressed in the Spanish language.
The fair was not only a celebration of flavors but also a testament to the power of language as a tool for expressing identity, connecting cultures, and sharing unique stories. Each exhibition demonstrated the progress and dedication of the students, who were able to communicate their essence and roots through the language they are learning.
We congratulate all the participants for their effort, creativity, and for making this event a true tribute to diversity and language.
The ICDA Language School celebrates the graduation of the 2024 English Immersion Program for Competitiveness
Excitement and pride were present during the graduation ceremonies of the English Immersion Program for Competitiveness, a program in collaboration with MESCYT, where hundreds of students celebrated the completion of a stage full of learning and personal growth.
First Graduation:
The event began with welcoming words, setting an emotional tone for the day. Robert Valcin, director of the institution’s Language School, delivered an inspiring speech that motivated the graduates to continue dreaming big, highlighting how mastering English will open doors to a future full of opportunities. Daphna Reyes, Program Coordinator, emphasized the effort and dedication of the students, who today are reaping the rewards of their commitment.
A special moment was the recognition of the teachers, who were invited to the stage to applause and smiles. Diana Martínez and Diobel Castaños, as representatives of the teachers, expressed their pride in having accompanied these young people on their journey toward success.
The ceremony included two memorable speeches by the most outstanding students: Madelin Victoria Feliz Peralta and Ada Raquel Mateo Ozorio. Both shared words full of gratitude and hope, reminding everyone that this achievement is just the beginning of great things to come.
The day was also filled with art and joy, with special presentations like the screening of the Stand Up video and an emotional performance of “Don’t Worry Be Happy,” which brought smiles and applause from everyone present.
The most awaited moment came with the diploma presentation, carried out by the program representatives at the different campuses. Each student received their certificate as a symbol of their effort and dedication. Héctor Arismendy Rosario López and Laura Bort led the student oath, a solemn moment where the graduates reaffirmed their commitment to their future.
Second Graduation:
In the afternoon ceremony, the message of gratitude toward the teachers was led by Isis Lara and José Quezada, who expressed their pride in the effort and commitment of their students.
The honor speeches were delivered by Helen Rosanna Marcano Aquino and Oijani Jiménez Gálvez, who moved the audience with their words full of inspiration and gratitude, highlighting the impact of the program on their lives.
As in the morning, the diploma presentation was a moment full of emotion, celebrated enthusiastically by family and friends in the auditorium.
Congratulations to all the graduates of both ceremonies! This is just the beginning of a journey full of success and achievements.
The Language School of the Instituto Cultural Domínico Americano celebrates its second commencement ceremony of the year at the Main Campus
On November 14th, our Language School celebrated its second graduation ceremony of the year at the main campus, in an emotional event held at the Patrick N. Hughson Auditorium. This ceremony marked a significant achievement for our students, who successfully completed the Junior Advanced, Adult Advanced, and Spanish as a Foreign Language levels.
The ceremony began with welcoming remarks by the executive director, Engineer Ramón A. Sosa, emphasizing the importance of language learning as an essential tool for personal and professional growth.
During the congratulatory speeches, the representative of the teachers, Midel José González, highlighted the students’ efforts. Distinguished students, Samira Gardenia Ogando Rodríguez, valedictorian of the Junior Advanced level, Nataly María Rodríguez Rodríguez, valedictorian of the Adult Advanced level from the first ceremony, and Brenda Antonella Pimentel Mejía, valedictorian of the Junior Advanced level, Ana Esther Mateo González, valedictorian of the Adult Advanced level, and Mireille Theogene, valedictorian of the Spanish as a Foreign Language program from the second ceremony, all shared heartfelt messages about their experiences and achievements.
The presentation of diplomas and recognitions was led by the director of the Language School, Robert Valcin, along with Omara Gabriela Segura Díaz, representative of the Junior Advanced level.
The event also featured a special artistic performance by the Julio Alberto Hernández Male Choir of the Instituto Cultural Domínico Americano, directed by Maestro Henry Cordero, who delivered a musical spectacle that captivated all attendees.
The ceremony concluded with the graduates’ oath, where the graduates reaffirmed their commitment to continuous learning and applying the knowledge acquired for the benefit of their communities and professional goals.
We thank everyone who made this event possible and the families for accompanying the graduates on this special day.
Congratulations to all the graduates! This is an important step towards a future full of opportunities.
Students of the Spanish as a Foreign Language program immerse themselves in Dominican culture at the 2024 Book Fair
The students of the Spanish as a Foreign Language program had a unique experience participating in the 2024 Book Fair, an event that celebrates literature and culture in the Dominican Republic. During their visit, they had the opportunity to explore local and international literary traditions, interact with other attendees, and discover culturally significant topics.
This enriching experience not only allowed them to practice the language in a real-life setting but also to appreciate the cultural diversity that characterizes this edition of the Book Fair. The students highlighted the importance of these encounters for their learning, strengthening both their understanding of Spanish and their intercultural comprehension.
Participation in events like this reinforces the program’s commitment to promoting cultural immersion and the development of language fluency, bringing students one step closer to mastering the language and understanding its cultural context.
