South Florida, a popular spot for JCI IVPs this time of year

While on her way to the JCI Global Partnership Summit in New York, 2013 JCI International Vice President (IVP) for the Americas, Lilian Graciela Rolón Flecha, stopped in Miami for a short visit with local South Florida chapters including the North Miami Jaycees, JCI Miami, and the Hollywood Jaycees.

After a sightseeing tour of Miami on Sunday, Lilian was treated to Miami-style hospitality at a home style dinner with board members from each of the local chapters. The menu included a variety of appetizers, warm spinach-artichoke dip, short rib ragu over pasta, Greek salad, and homemade oatmeal cookies. Board members talked with IVP Lilian about her experiences in the countries that she serves and discussed ways to translate that knowledge to local projects.

Recognition by the City of North Miami

On Monday, IVP Lilian was recognized by North Miami Mayor Lucie Tondreau and City Councilman Philippe Bien-Amie for her work with JCI, and then proceeded to meet with Miami Mayor Tomás Regalado to discuss opportunities for working more closely with JCI Miami to provide opportunities for young people to make positive change.

Meeting with Miami Mayor Regalado

After a hectic day of meetings with South Florida elected officials, IVP Lilian was the guest of honor at a cocktail reception hosted by JCI Miami at the Grove Spot (their meeting headquarters). There, local members and JCI senators from throughout South Florida had an opportunity to meet our special guest and to enjoy networking with each other. Attendees were even treated to a surprise visit by 2013 International Vice President for Europe, François Bégin, who was vacationing nearby. He serves JCI chapters in Belgium, France, Italy, Luxembourg, Malta, Catalonia, and the Netherlands, and was the 2012 JCI National President of Canada.

IVP Lilian holds a degree in architecture and works as a construction overseer in her own architectural firm, Level Architecture. She served as the JCI National President for Paraguay in 2007 and as the JCI Americas Development Council Commissioner in 2012 . In addition to the United States, she serves JCI chapters in Mexico, Uruguay, Bolivia, and Argentina.