Newsletter #1
2025
February 2025
CATTLEYA EDUCATIONAL CENTER
PRESIDENTS CORNER
Dear everyone at Cattleya Educational Center and all who support our crucial work for people with special needs on Roatan!
A heartfelt thank you to each one of you! Without your dedication, our students would not have the opportunities they do.
After nearly eleven months as president, it has become increasingly clear that our success is rooted in our collective effort and dedication. Many individuals contribute to our educational programs and nurturing environment: the staff who work tirelessly with our students every day, our multinational board of directors who tackle issues and make strategic decisions, the parents who organize fundraising events, and all the organizations and individuals who provide financial support. Also a special thanks to those who stop by with much-needed school supplies!
The reason we continue to thrive is your unwavering belief in us and recognition of us as a trustworthy organization. Your trust is our most precious asset, and we are committed to preserving it.
I am continually inspired by the resilience and determination that sustain our center and keep it vibrant. We face many challenges, often requiring swift action, but we remain resolute. Cattleya will continue to evolve and succeed thanks to our shared dedication to our students' development and empowerment.
THE STAFF IS STRENGTHENED
As of January 7, 2025, we have strengthened our team. Heidi Moreland, from Oregon, has joined us as Executive Director and is already providing comprehensive leadership. With years of experience in management and administration, familiarity with Honduran culture, and multilingual skills, we are thrilled to welcome her to the Cattleya family.
Our director, Elizabeth, can now dedicate her full attention to leading and planning our educational programs. This change will also allow the board to focus on strategic planning and decision-making rather than day-to-day management.
WE MUST GROW
We have aspirations to grow and must consider expanding to the other islands. To my knowledge, there is no specialized education or training available in Guanaja and Utila, though there are certainly individuals there with special needs. We are committed to including everyone and will persist in seeking solutions for expanding our center and our educational services.
“A HIGH SOCIAL VALUE” - A Fundraiser/Awareness Event
We are planning fundraising events in 2025 to raise funds and awareness for Cattleya and individuals with special needs. We are still looking for places to have the events. If anyone has any good ideas do not hesitate to contact us!
Thank you all for being part of this journey together!
Roger Bjoroy-Karl;sen President of the board of director
THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2024 - 2026:
Roger Bjoroy-Karlsen, Connie Silvestri, Kamille Thompson, Mary Vidotto,Steve Guillen, Kerry Tichi,
President
Vice President
Treasurer
Secretary
Vocal
Honorary/ Advisory member