FLORIDA STATE
SPANISH CONFERENCE
FSSC
ABOUT US
This page informs you about the organization as well as introduce you to the
Executive Board Members.
Who?
The Florida State Spanish Conference, Inc. aka FSSC, Inc
We are a non-profit, tax-exempt organization.
ALL of our Board members are teachers who volunteer their time and services to the organization out of love for their language, culture, and people.
What?
A competition for high school Spanish students to give them an opportunity to compete among themselves in the fields of
declamation, impromptu speech, and dramatic presentations.
When?
March 5-7, 2026.
Where?
Holiday Inn Resort by IHG
3011 Maingate Lane, Kissimmee, Florida, 34747
Meet the Executive Board…
Dr. Brenda Hernández Esquilín | President
Dr. Hernández Esquilin has served as a judge at the Florida State Spanish Conference for over 25 years, guiding and inspiring student to participate and excel. She currently serves as President of the FSSC and Secretary for the AATSP Florida Chapter, promoting Spanish and Portuguese language learning, student leadership, and cultural engagement across Florida.
Amarilys Heard | Past-President, Webmaster
Amarilys first attended the FSSC as a student teacher while enrolled at the University of Central Florida, serving as a judge in 1992. She fell in love with the students' participation, energy, and dedication to bringing the Spanish language to life. Since then, Amarilys has been a sponsor of several teams at different schools. She looks forward to continuing the legacy with enthusiasm for years to come!
Ida Vincenty Rolón | Vice-President
Ida Vincenty, is a devoted Spanish educator who brings over 25 years of passion and experience to her classroom. She finds joy in helping students connect with the beauty of the Spanish language and culture. Throughout her years of involvement with the Florida State Spanish Conference, Ida has served as both a mentor and judge, inspiring countless students to do their best. As vice president, she continues to support the organization’s mission of celebrating language, learning, and Hispanic heritage across the state.
Linda Villadóniga | Founding Member
Linda first attended the FSSC as a teacher in 1997, but her association with FSSC started when her children were students at St. Joseph Academy in St. Augustine, FL. They attended FSSC in 1992, 1993, and 1994. Linda and her students have served as host school in 2011 and 2012. Linda retired from teaching in 2012, but her association with FSSC remains strong. She has served as President-Elect for both the Florida Chapter of AATSP, as well as FFLA. She is now the Conference Chair for the FAATSP Conference.
Meruchy Haedo | Founding Member
Meruchy first attended the FSSC as a student. As a teacher, she took what she learned from her high school teacher and mentor to prepare her students and has attended with a team every year since she began teaching. In 2000, she together with the other members of the Governing Board, incorporated the Florida State Spanish Conference and she has been overseeing the competition ever since. Meruchy and Alejandro, with their students, have served as host school in 2000, 2001, 2007, 2009, and 2013. She also serves as Secretary of the Florida Chapter of AATSP.
Alejandro Avendaño | Founding Member
Alejandro first attended the FSSC as a teacher in 1995. He loved the experience so much that he decided to serve as host school the next year. In 2000, he together with the other members of the Governing Board, incorporated the Florida State Spanish Conference and he has been overseeing the competition ever since. Alejandro served as President of the AATSP Florida Chapter from 1998-2003 where his responsibility included overseeing and running the Points Room. He has also served as AATSP Florida Chapter Treasurer for 2 terms. Alejandro and Meruchy, with their students, have served as host school in 2000, 2001, 2007, 2009, and 2013.