Spotlight on Dr. Nailet Cobas-Fiffe.
N
ational Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated from September 15 to October 15 each year. This month-long observance highlights the significant contributions of Hispanic Americans to the history and culture of the United States. As a nation often referred to as a melting pot, the U.S. embraces a rich tapestry of cultures and ethnicities.
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Hispanic Americans constitute 19% of the U.S. population, amounting to more than 62 million individuals. They were the second-fastest growing ethnic population in the United States between the last two census dates (2010 and 2020), according to Pew Research.
One inspiring figure in our community is Dr. Nailet Cobas-Fiffe, St. Luke's newest Spanish teacher. Originally from Cuba, Dr. Cobas has a remarkable background in dentistry and education.
Her Journey:
Dr. Cobas earned her dental degree from the Medical Sciences University of Guantánamo in Cuba, completing her training at the General Hospital and University Clinic of Baracoa. Her extensive education included diverse experiences in specialties such as endodontics, pediatric dentistry, orthodontics, and oral and maxillofacial surgery. “I studied for seven years and gained experience in various dental procedures, which is one of my greatest passions,” she reflects.
A Passion for Teaching:
Dr. Cobas has seamlessly transitioned from dentistry to teaching, sharing her knowledge and passion for the Spanish language. “Teaching has always been a passion of mine, and St. Luke’s provided the perfect opportunity to pursue it,” she says. In addition to teaching Spanish I and II, she appreciates St. Luke’s commitment to education from a Christian perspective and its one-of-a-kind Biomedical Sciences program.
When discussing her move to the U.S., Dr. Cobas emphasizes the challenges and rewards of adapting to a new culture. “Transitions can be tough. My home country is very different in terms of culture, traditions, and even climate,” she explains. The language barrier has been one of her biggest challenges, but she views this experience as a way to develop tools that will help her students learn.
One of the biggest challenges has been the language. I’m still learning, but this process has given me valuable tools to help others learn as well
As a dedicated educator, Dr. Cobas is excited to teach St. Luke's students. “I’m most excited about sharing my culture and language with my students while also learning from them,” she says.
Her journey from dentist to teacher is not just impressive—it’s inspiring. Dr. Cobas is truly incredible and her story is very impressive and inspiring. She will be an inspiration to all her students and her students have an amazing opportunity to learn and grow with her.
As we celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month, let’s honor the achievements of individuals like Dr. Nailet Cobas-Fiffe, who embody the strength and diversity of the Hispanic community. Join us in recognizing and appreciating the invaluable contributions of Hispanic Americans throughout history and into the future.
