ALPFA at UIC Wins Student Innovative Chapter Award at National Convention
ALPFA at UIC
Forty members of ALPFA at UIC represented UIC Business at the 2026 Association of Latino Professionals for America National Convention, held August 9–13 in Charlotte, North Carolina. During the convention, ALPFA at UIC was honored with the Student Innovative Chapter Award.
The four-day convention brought together students, professionals, recruiters and business leaders from across the country under the theme “Power by Design: From Self to Systems.” Designed to help students take ownership of what comes next, the convention provided direct access to hiring partners, recruiters and industry leaders.
Students participated in career-building workshops, gained insights from executives and explored internship and employment opportunities through the convention’s expansive career expo. The agenda also featured leadership development sessions, networking opportunities and programming focused on helping attendees build the skills, confidence and connections needed to turn their ambitions into opportunities.
“My experience at the 2026 ALPFA Convention was amazing. I had the opportunity to meet and connect with so many professionals and students from across the country. It was a great experience that I would recommend to all students!” said Eric Cano.
For Gema Guerra, the convention also highlighted the value of belonging to a supportive professional community. “ALPFA has given me the privilege of meeting and reconnecting with incredible people who remind me how special it is to be part of a community that encourages you to grow,” Guerra said.
Through this national experience, ALPFA at UIC members expanded their professional networks, strengthened their career readiness and connected with a community that understands and supports their journeys. They returned to UIC Business with new knowledge, relationships and ideas that will benefit both their individual development and the continued growth of the ALPFA at UIC Chapter.