TBSL was pleased and honoured to announce Mrs. Cordelia Requena, Vice Principal of Academics at Toledo Community College, as the keynote speaker for the 8th GIS Day Expo, held on Wednesday, November 15th, 2023. Mrs. Requena's keynote address focused on the importance of assimilating geographic information systems (GIS) in the classroom, empowering both students and teachers to make the most of today’s digital revolution. She shared their fascinating experience and insights as the first Belize High school to sign on to Esri's GIS in Schools free software program in 2023.

Mrs. Cordelia Requena has been serving at her alma mater for the past 10 years, and her goal is promoting competency-based education which demonstrates the impact of technology and innovation.

Mrs. Requena was born and raised in Punta Gorda, Toledo. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Natural Resources Management and her Masters Degree in Educational Leadership from the University of Belize. Her initial tenure as a conversationist, working at Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) in Belize and the Sarstoon Temash Institute for Indigenous Management (SATIIM) in Toledo—and now her passion for GIS—have inspired her vision for integrating technology in the classroom.

“GIS is an excellent means of achieving this integration. It provides an opportunity for students to explore what these systems can do for them beyond the classroom, with hands-on learning,” Mrs. Requena said.