Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month

In spirit of celebration, our Chief Operations Officer, Marisa Nicely, shares a personal reflection on the importance of honoring heritage, embracing diversity, and fostering inclusion in everything we do. Her message reminds us that progress is built not only on innovation, but on understanding, listening, learning, and lifting each other up. 

We invite you to read Marisa's reflection, reflect yourself, and join us as we celebrate the voices and legacies that continue to inspire and empower!

Staying Connected to My Roots During Hispanic Heritage Month

Stepping into the role of Chief Operating Officer has been both exciting and humbling. With this new responsibility, I’ve been thinking a lot about what has shaped me—both as a professional and as a person. One thing is clear: my Puerto Rican heritage is at the heart of who I am, and it continues to guide me every day.

Hispanic Heritage Month is a time of celebration, but for me it’s also a reminder. A reminder to stay grounded in my culture—the language, the music, the food, the traditions, and the values passed down from my family. These are not just pieces of my past; they’re part of how I lead, how I connect, and how I see the world.

Growing up, I was an ESL student. I know what it feels like to sit in a classroom and struggle to find the right words. I remember the moments of frustration, but I also remember the encouragement of those who believed in me. Those experiences taught me perseverance, but they also gave me a deep empathy for others navigating the same challenges.

That’s why I am so proud that Easterseals MORC strives to provide bilingual services when possible. Language should never be a barrier to care. Individuals deserve to feel understood, to express themselves fully, and to receive support in the language that feels most natural to them. When we provide services in Spanish as well as English, we aren’t just communicating—we’re building trust, respect, and belonging.

Being Puerto Rican is something I carry with pride. It keeps me connected to a larger community, and it reminds me of the importance of lifting others up as I grow. In this new role, I hope to create space where culture is celebrated, where differences are honored, and where everyone feels seen.

So, during Hispanic Heritage Month, I celebrate not just my own journey, but the journeys of so many in our community. It feels great to work for an organization that aligns with my values and allows the space for these conversations.