Celebrating Hispanic Women Leaders: Gilda’s Club Kentuckiana Honors Community Changemakers
Join us September 27 for ‘Roots & Wings,’ a Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration featuring four inspiring women who uplift Louisville’s Latinx community.
We’ve all heard the saying, “a woman’s work is never done.” Few adages ring truer. Women often carry multiple roles simultaneously—caring for family, working demanding jobs, pursuing education, supporting aging relatives, volunteering in the community, and nurturing future generations. Studies consistently show that the well-being of families and neighborhoods rises and falls with the women who hold them together.
This Hispanic Heritage Month, Gilda’s Club Kentuckiana invites you to celebrate four extraordinary Hispanic women who are transforming our communities and inspiring future generations.
🌟 Roots & Wings: Hispanic Women Who Lead
A Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration
📅 Saturday, September 27 | 🕕 6–8pm
📍 2440 Grinstead Drive, Louisville, KY 40204
This free event features live entertainment, a shared community meal, and inspiring stories from our honorees. Pre-registration is encouraged. Click to RSVP.
Meet Our 2025 Honorees
Milena Waltrip Hernandez
Originally from Nicaragua, Milena’s journey of resilience carried her from a 17-year airline career to founding LUCE (Latinos Unidos En El Camino A La Excelencia), a nonprofit organization empowering Hispanic immigrant families in Louisville through mentorship, advocacy, and workforce development. Today, she serves as LUCE’s Executive Director and Vice President at Excel Services while holding a Master of Science in Social Work from the University of Louisville.
Eva Melissa Astudillo Sotelo
Born in Mexico, Eva Melissa has dedicated her career to education and empowerment across borders—from rural Brazil to leadership roles in Louisville. A recipient of the CONACYT grant, she holds dual Master’s degrees, has been recognized as a “Latina of the Year” (2020) and a “Forty under 40” honoree (2023). She currently works as Chief Operating Officer at La Casita Center, co-leads the Louisville Latinx Educational Outreach Project, and shares her culture through teaching Folkloric Mexican Dance with Mexico Lindo.
Nancy Davila Garcia
A proud Puerto Rican, Nancy turned personal challenges—working from a young age, balancing studies, and overcoming language barriers—into fuel for a life of service. Now a certified teacher and active community collaborator, Nancy advocates for Hispanic families, showing that with perseverance and unity, a brighter future is always within reach.
Vivian Marin
Originally from Panama, Vivian is Program Manager for the Louisville Metro Office of Immigrant Affairs. She plays a vital role in connecting immigrant communities with resources, strengthening communication, and advancing initiatives that make Louisville a welcoming city where international residents can thrive.
About Gilda’s Club Kentuckiana’s Hispanic Program
At Gilda’s Club Kentuckiana, our promise is simple: “Nadie enfrenta al cáncer solo” — No one faces cancer alone. That includes Kentuckiana’s vibrant Hispanic and Latinx communities.
We currently offer:
- Spanish-language programming focused on wellness and support
- Introductory Spanish classes for members and volunteers
- Lotería game sessions before our monthly Clubhouse Brunch
- Cultural celebrations including Día de Muertos, Día del Niño, and Hispanic Heritage Month
As the Hispanic/Latino community continues to grow—now representing about 8% of Louisville’s population and one of Kentucky’s fastest-growing demographics—we are committed to expanding our programs to meet evolving needs and celebrate cultural contributions that enrich our region.
