Mariela Jaen: An Education Advocate for Cincinnati’s Next Generation

The Hispanic Chamber of Cincinnati proudly features Mariela Jaen, MA, in its “Kudos Corner” for her remarkable commitment, dedication, contribution, and impact as a teacher at the Cincinnati Public Schools.

The  Hispanic Chamber of Cincinnati honors Mariela Jaen, a dedicated Spanish teacher, tutor, and interpreter at LEAP Academy. Her extensive teaching experience includes roles as a Spanish teacher at Roger Bacon High School and Saint Xavier High School. Additionally, she served as an Adjunct Professor at Mount St. Joseph University and the University of Cincinnati. Ms. Jaen is a board member of the English Language Learning Foundation, Inc.

Mariela Jaen has dedicated her career to education, with a profound commitment to empowering immigrant women and assisting them in navigating circumstances that frequently lead to isolation. Guided by a mission received from the Sisters of Charity of Cincinnati, “to be a voice” for those in need, particularly those who share her native language and culture, immigrant families within the Cincinnati Public Schools, and the burgeoning community residing in the Lower Price Hill neighborhoods, Mariela endeavors to make a meaningful impact. 

We commend her unwavering dedication and remarkable achievements throughout her career, including her recognition as a Leading Woman in 2007, an Award for Community Service in 2007, and the prestigious Home Town Hero title bestowed upon her by The Enquirer in 2007. Since the age of 19, Ms. Jaen has wholeheartedly embraced the mission and ethos of The Sisters of Charity of Cincinnati, serving as an Associate since 1997.

Born in Las Tablas, Panama, Mariela is one of two daughters raised by a farmer and his teacher wife. In the summer of 1988, Mariela came to Cincinnati to study at Mount St. Joseph University. She has a Bachelor of Arts in Education, K-12, a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish, a Master of Arts in Education, and a Master of Arts in ELL Education. 

The “Kudos Corner” section of the Hispanic Chamber of Cincinnati’s website is an initiative of the Hispanic Chamber of Cincinnati and the Hispanic Chamber of Cincinnati Foundation. This section aims to recognize and honor the exceptional achievements of Latino individuals who have significantly impacted their communities. 

Image and post information sourced by Mariela Jaen, Sister of Charity of Cincinnati website, and the Women Leading 2007 award information. 

Written by Lorena Mora-Mowry, host of the Latina Today Podcast and HIspanic Chamber Cincinnati Foundation Board Member.