Werner Oyanadel
Born in Caguas, Puerto Rico, Santiago Veguilla migrated to Hartford in 1966. In this interview, Veguilla reminisce about his humble childhood, Puerto Rican traditions, his family, and the first time he experienced a Hartford winter. As a man of faith, Veguilla discusses the importance of the Catholic church in his life. He also discusses the importance of Latinx representation and Spanish in politics and education. Furthermore, Veguilla talks about his travels in the past and his hopes for the future.
According to the Commission on Women, Children, Seniors, Equity & Opportunity:
"Werner Oyanadel, Latino and Puerto Rican Policy Director, oversees the Latino and Puerto Rican policy division for the Commission and provides liaison duties with state officials, policymakers and community stakeholders around legislative initiatives that seek to enhance meaningful opportunities for Latino and Puerto Rican residents in our state. Mr. Oyanadel holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science with a concentration in Public Administration and a Minor in Philosophy. He was named one of the 50 Most Influential Latinos in Connecticut by Latinos United for Professional Excellence (LUPA) in 2014.
He received the W.L. Gilbert Award for Outstanding Community Service in 2015, and in 2011 he received the coveted Latino de Oro Award in the field of politics by IDENTIDAD Latina Hispanic Newspaper."