Dr. Francisco Reveles, professor at Cal State Sacramento, delivered the keynote speech. He shared insights on his extensive field experience as a university researcher and school practitioner in areas relating to resilience and risk-taking in youth gang involvement, culturally competent responses to student issues and organizational leadership. Dr. Vicki Phillips, superintendent of Portland Public Schools, also spoke about how Portland's school system is taking proactive measures in ensuring success for all students.

Reveles commended educators and administrators for their commitment to providing opportunities for youth, as agents of empowerment for Latino youth.

"I always make a distinction between a successful administrator and effective administrator. A successful administrator is one who’s literally punching the ticket. An effective is the one who really makes a difference, takes risks, creates change and asks those questions that don’t get asked," he said.

Respect and high expectations are crucial in establishing enduring relationships, and an effective motivational tool to ensure that students are on track, accomplishing goals.

"Ask them for their homework, hold them accountable: don’t rescue the Latino kids. They don’t need rescuing. They need to be supported. There’s a difference between rescuing and supporting someone," he said.