Gretchen Sierra-Zorita's career as a Federal government official, activist, and writer has provided her with key tools and contacts to advocate for solutions in Washington D.C. She has focused her work on Hispanic and Puerto Rican issues, and has become a respected thought leader, sought by the media for her nonpartisan insight and knowledge on the fiscal and social crisis affecting the island of Puerto Rico. On Monday, October 23, Ms. Sierra-Zorita spoke to the Upper School language students about the devastating effects of Hurricane Maria on Puerto Rico. As she so succinctly pointed out, Hurricane Maria cannot be understood in isolation, but must be viewed within the context of Puerto Rican and U.S. history. Ms. Sierra-Zorita helped the girls to better understand the territory status of Puerto Rico and how the destruction of the hurricane (water crisis, power outages, logistical challenges) was compounded by the island's 10 year recession and compromised infrastructure.
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