The Domínico Americano Holds Its 2025 General Ordinary Assembly of Associates
Last Tuesday, June 17, 2025, the Instituto Cultural Dominico Americano held its General Ordinary Assembly of Associates, a space for dialogue and accountability in which the institutional advances of the year 2024 were presented and new members of the Board of Directors were elected for the period 2025–2027.
The activity was presided over by Mrs. Darys Estrella, president of the Board of Directors, who offered opening remarks highlighting the impact of initiatives developed during the past year and reaffirming the commitment to responsible leadership that guides the mission of Dominico Americano.
During the day, Eng. Ramón Sosa, Executive Director, presented the institutional management report; Mr. Frank Abate, Treasurer, shared financial information based on audited statements; and Mrs. Hilda Patricia Polanco, Secretary of Council, conducted the voting process and validation for the new board composition.
The Executive Committee Board that begins its functions with immediate effect is composed of:
Darys Estrella – President
Lucy Threan de Lamarche – Vice President
Hilda Patricia Polanco – Secretary
Francisco J. Abate Franjul – Treasurer
Darío Lama Reyes – Vice Secretary
Robert Valdez – Vice Treasurer
Additionally forming part are:
Francisco J. Abreu Vitetta, Bassa Isaac Castañeda, Enrique A. Fernández Malla, Marielle Garrido, Jeffrey Johnson, Mari Carmen Orizondo, Leonardo Santoni, Arthur Valdez
We thank all associates who participated actively in this assembly, contributing to strengthening our institution’s mission to promote cultural exchange between the Dominican Republic and the United States.
U.S. Embassy and the Domínico Americano lead Working Group for the Advancement of English in the Dominican Republic
The United States Embassy in Santo Domingo, in collaboration with the Instituto Cultural Domínico Americano (ICDA), held the Working Group for the Advancement of English, a space for inter-institutional dialogue and collaboration focused on strengthening English language teaching in the Dominican Republic.
During this event, held at the ICDA’s main campus, representatives from the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Technology (MESCyT), universities, research centers, and partner organizations gathered to share initiatives, establish strategic alliances, and outline joint action plans among key stakeholders in the Dominican and U.S. education sectors.
One of the main announcements of the meeting was the availability of funding from the United States Embassy for the development of collaborative English teaching projects, aimed at institutions that promote access to and quality in English language learning.
Additionally, a new joint initiative was presented between the Dominican Institute for Educational Quality Evaluation and Research (IDEICE) and the Domínico Americano University (UNICDA), aimed at analyzing the current state of English in the country, with the goal of generating evidence-based recommendations to influence public policies and training programs.
Through its support of this working group, the Domínico Americano reaffirms its commitment to promoting English as a key tool for academic, professional, and global integration, strengthening its role as a bridge between both nations in the field of education.
The ICDA Language School celebrates its first graduation of the year with more than 220 students
Emotion and pride filled the graduation ceremony of the Language School at the Instituto Cultural Domínico Americano (ICDA), where in two separate ceremonies, diplomas were awarded to graduates of the Playful Learning, Juniors, Adults, and Spanish as a Foreign Language programs. In total, more than 220 students participated in a day full of symbolism, art, and academic commitment.
The event was opened by Mrs. Lucy Threan Lamarche, Vice President of the ICDA Board of Directors, and Mr. Robert Valcin, Director of the Language School, who both offered warm words of welcome. Professor Wilson Montilla Kelly, representing the teaching staff, congratulated the students for their perseverance and dedication.
One of the most anticipated moments was the recognition of outstanding students, including Zoe Clauddette Custodio Hernández (Advanced Junior), Farah Isabella Dicent Agüero (Advanced Junior), María José Colás (Advanced Adult), Josué Rafael de los Santos Cruz (Advanced Adult), and Alceni Oliveira Da Silva (Spanish Program), who delivered heartfelt speeches filled with gratitude, fulfilled dreams, and hope for the future.
The ceremony also featured a special artistic performance by the Domínico Americano Mixed Choir, directed by Maestro Viterbo Peña, adding a unique touch to the celebration.
The diploma presentation was a deeply emotional moment, with family and friends proudly applauding each student. The ceremony concluded with a symbolic oath, reaffirming the graduates’ commitment to learning and excellence.
Students from the Spanish as a Foreign Language program experience immersion at the Botanical Garden
As part of a language immersion experience, our students from the Spanish as a Foreign Language program visited the National Botanical Garden, with the goal of strengthening their command of the language in a real and dynamic environment.
During the outing, students had the opportunity to practice Spanish in everyday and spontaneous contexts, interacting with their surroundings while exploring the natural and cultural diversity offered by this iconic space in the country.
This activity not only reinforced their language skills but also allowed them to connect with Dominican culture from a hands-on perspective.
Learning a language also means opening up to the world, and this visit represented an important step on that path of discovery and holistic learning.
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.
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 […]
