National Museum of the American Latino Launches 2025 Young Ambassadors Program

The Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Latino has welcomed 20 college-bound high school seniors to Washington, D.C., for the start of its annual Young Ambassadors Program (YAP), a five-week, community-focused initiative made possible by Ford Philanthropy. YAP equips emerging leaders with the skills, networks and vision needed to foster positive change in local communities through the arts, sciences and humanities.

“We’re excited to welcome this outstanding group to the Smithsonian family,” said Jorge Zamanillo, director of the National Museum of the American Latino. “Their perspectives will energize our Institution, and, thanks to Ford Philanthropy, the experiences they gain this summer will resonate throughout communities across America."

From June 22 to 28, YAP participants attend Washington Week, an intensive, behind-the-scenes seminar across the Smithsonian. During their week in the nation’s capital, participants meet curators, collections managers, educators, scientists and digital media experts for an inside look at museum operations and the National Museum of the American Latino’s expanding Latino collections. This year’s sessions highlight how communities, technology and sustainability will shape the museum of the future. Select presentations will be posted on the museum’s YouTube channel after the program concludes.

After a brief break, the young ambassadors will resume their program from July 8 to Aug. 2. They will participate in a community-focused practicum designed to strengthen their local impact and expand their experiences with cultural spaces at Smithsonian partner or affiliate museums across the continental United States and Puerto Rico. The practicum will allow participants to work with museum and library professionals on educational and outreach projects. The museum will also place participants in locations such as Albuquerque, New Mexico; McAllen, Texas; and San Juan, Puerto Rico, supporting the Institution’s goal of engaging rural and historically under-resourced communities. After completing their practicums, students will join the YAP Alumni Network, which offers ongoing professional development opportunities and promotes lifelong, community-centered leadership.

Ford Philanthropy has championed the Young Ambassadors Program since 2008, enabling more than 370 students to cultivate their talents and give back to their communities.

About the National Museum of the American Latino

Established by Congress in 2020, the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Latino honors the dreams, challenges and triumphs of U.S. Latinos, elevating these stories within the nation’s narrative. The museum also creates transformative experiences, fosters a deeper understanding of American history and culture, and connects communities nationwide. Visit the museum’s exhibitions at the Molina Family Latino Gallery in the National Museum of American History or at latino.si.edu. Follow @USLatinoMuseum on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and X.

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