The third and final candidate for the Latino studies director at Iowa State addressed the current situation of Latinos in America.

Loreto Prieto presented his vision for the future of the program, should he be selected, on Monday afternoon in an open forum in Carver Hall.

Prieto’s presentation, “Miles to Go Before I Sleep: Promises Still to be Kept,” was viewed by a large audience.

“[He is an] active and assertive leader that has helped establish standards in education and an advocate for multicultural issues within psychology,” said Doug Epperson, associate dean in liberal arts and sciences.

Prieto’s presentation focused in part on the history of Latino studies across the nation from its inception in the 1960s to its status today.

“We cannot sacrifice ourselves to complacency,” Prieto said, in reference to accomplishments the program has achieved thus far.

Prieto added that he is very impressed with the status of the program as it is, but would like to see the program expanded to minor status or possibly establishing a Latino studies major. Currently, Latino studies is a part of the interdisciplinary studies program.

Part of Prieto’s presentation focused on the development, what he called “a new age of Latino studies.”

“Society is once again imposing restrictions that will build unrest,” he said.

This unrest brought about the recognition of Latino studies as a viable program for universities, he said, and he sees the current situation of Latinos in America and the controversy surrounding them as a potential for the expansion of existing programs both at Iowa State and nationwide.

Prieto then outlined opportunities that could present themselves both because of and despite the sentiment faced by the Latino community.

“My vision for Latino studies embraces an understanding and strengthening of our cultural identities,” he said.

Prieto also talked about establishing a signature ISU conference to help make Iowa State a leader in ethnic studies of all kinds.

He added that the University of Iowa and the University of Northern Iowa do not have ethnic studies programs comparable to Iowa State’s and the university should build upon its successes to become a “regional leader.”

Prieto currently works as a professor of education in the department of counseling at the University of Akron in Akron, Ohio.