In a rapidly diversifying United States, the demand for culturally competent professionals, particularly in the field of social work, has never been greater. Across the nation, the Latino population is growing at unprecedented rates, reshaping communities, economies, and institutions. Yet, this demographic shift has outpaced the development of tailored educational pathways that prepare future professionals to serve Latino individuals and families with the empathy, cultural understanding, and linguistic fluency they deserve.

At Briar Cliff University, we’ve taken that challenge head-on.

Recently, the Department of Social Work, in collaboration with the Spanish Program, proudly launched the Latino Cultural Competence in Social Work concentration credential, a professional distinction within the BSW program. This forward-thinking, interdisciplinary credential is designed to equip future social workers with the knowledge, skills, and language capabilities necessary to engage meaningfully with Latino communities both in Siouxland and across the country.

This credential was born from both vision and necessity. Over the past decade, our students who pursued dual degrees or minors in Social Work and Spanish consistently demonstrated an outsized impact in their careers, showing that language and cultural literacy are not just assets; they’re prerequisites for effective, ethical practice. Now, with this credential available within the BSW program, we’re empowering even more students to journey down that path, and we’re already seeing results that inspire.

Professional Credential Rooted in Community

The Latino Cultural Competence in Social Work concentration credential integrates immersive language training, cross-cultural communication, and community-engaged learning with a robust foundation in social work principles. Students explore topics such as Latino health disparities, immigration policy, trauma-informed care for immigrant families, and community organizing. Courses are supplemented by internships, service-learning placements, and direct collaboration with local Latino-serving organizations.

“Students in our program don’t just learn about diverse communities—they learn with them,” says Margarite Reinert, Social Work Program Director. “We are preparing bilingual, bicultural social workers who can bridge cultures, honor lived experiences, and lead with cultural humility.”

Alumni Spotlight: Olga Guevara – From Classroom to Community Catalyst

One shining example of the power of this educational model is Olga Guevara, a dynamic leader whose journey began at Briar Cliff University. A graduate with degrees in Social Work, Spanish, and Latin American Studies, Olga has used her education as a springboard for transformational change across Siouxland.

Today, Olga serves as the Executive Director of Unity in Action, a nonprofit that advocates for Latino communities through civic engagement, health equity, and leadership development. Under her leadership, the organization has expanded its reach, deepened its community partnerships, and launched initiatives that have reverberated far beyond Nebraska.

In 2021, Olga founded Celebrate Siouxland, a cultural event series showcasing Latino heritage through music, art, and food. Just two years later, she and her husband co-founded Casa Azteca, a tortilla manufacturing business now distributed across four regional states. Alongside her entrepreneurial pursuits, she continues to influence policy, having testified before the Nebraska Legislature on matters of health equity and immigrant rights.

“The education I received at Briar Cliff helped me become who I am—not just professionally, but as a community leader,” Olga reflects. “Being able to think critically, communicate in two languages, and navigate cultural nuances—that’s the foundation I received there.”

Her work has earned her the Milo Mumgaard Emerging Leader Award, a feature in JEFAS Magazine, and the Latino Leader of the Year Award from Telemundo Nebraska—testaments to both her dedication and the caliber of her education.

Another Success Story: Ximena Perez – Empowering Through Education

Another inspiring Briar Cliff alumna is Ximena Perez, Programs Coordinator at Unity in Action. With a background in Social Work and Spanish, Ximena dedicates her career to empowering individuals and families through training, education, and community advocacy.

Whether facilitating emergency safety planning, preparing residents for U.S. citizenship, or mentoring high school students through leadership programs, Ximena’s work is grounded in compassion and cultural fluency. Her ability to meet people where they are—linguistically, emotionally, and culturally—makes her an essential connector and advocate within the Latino community.

“What I do isn’t just about information—it’s about trust,” says Ximena. “When people see that I speak their language, that I understand their stories, they open up. That’s when real change happens. My education at Briar Cliff gave me that power.”

Her work is a testament to how strategic, culturally grounded social work can ripple out to impact entire communities. 

Shaping the Future of Social Work

The success of alumni like Olga and Ximena underscores the impact that culturally responsive education can have not only on individual students but also on the communities they serve. At Briar Cliff, we’re not just training social workers; we’re shaping bilingual change-makers who champion dignity, equity, and justice.

As the Latino population continues to grow in states such as Iowa, Nebraska, and South Dakota, and across the country, there is a growing need for professionals who can navigate cultural complexities with humility and respect. Our credential answers that call, offering a national model for how higher education can respond to demographic change with innovation, integrity, and heart.

Prospective students interested in serving Latino communities will find in this credential a rigorous, values-driven education, one that opens doors to careers in nonprofit leadership, health services, policy, education, and beyond.

Ready to Join the Movement?

For students passionate about language, justice, and community service, the Latino Cultural Competence in Social Work concentration credential within the BSW program at Briar Cliff University offers the tools to make a lasting impact. Through real-world experiences, interdisciplinary learning, and mentorship from faculty and community leaders, students emerge not only prepared, but inspired to be advocates for change.

To learn more, visit: www.briarcliff.edu/socialworkspanish

About the authors
Margarite Reinert, LMSW, studied social work and criminal justice at the University of South Dakota and earned her master’s in social work at the University of Iowa. She teaches social work and researches trauma-informed practice and social justice. She serves on and is actively involved in university and community initiatives advancing social justice, education, and community well-being in Siouxland.

Dr. Wilfrido Suárez-Meza studied Business Administration in Mexico and later earned his master’s and doctorate in Spanish at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln. He teaches Spanish language and culture, researches Latino communities, and mentors students. He also serves on local boards supporting health, education, and community engagement in Siouxland.