From behind the podium in Baker Center Ballroom last night, Sandra Guzman spoke with a distinct passion about Latino empowerment.

This is Guzman's first time in Ohio, she spent it joining in the celebration of Latino Month at Ohio University.

Guzman is editor-in-chief of Latina Magazine, a bilingual magazine incorporating Spanish and English. Guzman said she knew what it was like to be different growing up - to be an outsider. This is why she tells the stories of her people, she said.

"I try to represent the true story of our [Latino] community," she said.

Latinos are presently the largest minority in many states. In fact, four out of every 10 Californian babies born are Latino. Guzman said by the year 2000, Latinos will be the largest minority in the United States.

With the Latino population on the rise, senior Cintia Ulloa agreed with Guzman's message of becoming strong in their heritage.

"Her [Guzman's] emphasis on strength and sticking to our roots is very important," Ulloa said.

When Guzman first started at Latina Magazine, she was looking for the kind of Latino representation she grew up with, she said. She wanted to give back to her community, and Latina Magazine served as the vehicle to do so.

The magazine focuses on the things that are important in Guzman's life, as well as the Latino population: family, food and culture.

It reflects a community that is growing, Guzman said.

With the Latino community growing as rapidly as it is, Guzman emphasized the importance of Latino leadership and illustrated ways to achieve that role.

Actively seeking a mentor who can guide, support or encourage Latinos is important, as well as giving back to the community. She advocated building coalitions with people of other groups to support one another.

She also said she hopes women, traditionally the "caretakers," will take time for themselves to regain strength. She emphasized to the audience members to follow their dreams. Having pursuit and passion and not giving up are the key, she said.

"You are the only one who can put a cap on your dreams," she said.

Guzman said the worst possible thing in life is to look back on life at 60 years old and think, "I could have and should have." She encouraged her fellow Latinos to empower each other and reach their goals.

Michelle McClain, a graduate associate of multicultural programs, is working to provide more Hispanic events at OU other than just during Hispanic Month, she said. She admires Guzman and her personality, she said.

"Sandra is an extremely dynamic woman," she said. "She just blows me away."