My story is one example of the strength, resilience and courage of all the women among us.
Why is honoring achievement important? How does it impact our business community?
Earning recognition does not motivate the purpose behind our work, though it’s important to honor our achievements. It brings us together, grants visibility to our causes, and inspires others to reach their full potential.
Our business community is filled with first-generation leaders and innovative problem solvers who felt inspired seeing the achievements of others. This representation matters because you see your own reflection in the leaders who have created positive change while coming from similar backgrounds and stories.
Achievements do not need to be shiny awards; they can be generational stepping stones. My father taught himself English completely on his own and became a certified plumber. His efforts taught me all achievements are worth honoring and inspired me to strive for a better future for myself, leading me to become a first-generation college graduate and now the first Latina to lead one of the largest nonprofits.
What is the single most important thing you have learned throughout your career that would inspire others/other women?
Be someone who selflessly shows up for others.
I’ve been inspired by many women throughout my life, personally and professionally.
Growing up, my mom had a pot of frijoles and fresh tortillas ready for the migrant workers travelling by train near our home. My mom was always ready to give and help others in need.
Terri Cruz, one of the founders of CPLC, dedicated her whole life to helping others. Working until she was 89, she was always the last one to leave the office because she wanted to help the community as much as possible. As “La Madrecita of CPLC,” she has left behind a legacy of strength and service.
Their examples inspire me to be the leader I am today, honoring their legacy by inspiring other women. Showing up for others can mean building community, mentoring younger professionals, and speaking up when you are so moved.
What do you think we can do – now – to make a difference for young people/women in Arizona?
We can empower young people and women to believe in the value they contribute to the table. There is so much we can learn from them. I am inspired by the up-and-coming leaders who are pulling up a seat and creating a new table.
Throughout my career, it has been important that I surrounded myself with diverse mentors who empowered me to be versatile and navigate problem solving. Every time I’m in a room, I make it a point to learn everyone’s story and bring them into the conversation. This gives me the opportunity to not only learn from their experience and perspective, but value it, especially when it comes from young people and women.
We can’t grow if we only stick to what we already know. Our world is constantly changing, and everyone benefits when we take the time to mentor and understand what matters to others.
In A Few Words
- What was the last course, certification or training you took to improve yourself professionally? Piper Fellowship 2023 Executive Program for Growing Companies from Stanford Graduate School of Business
- What would you say is a single characteristic OTHERS might attribute to you that defines your success? Integrity
- What is the one thing you feel you could work on professionally to be a greater success? Work-life balance
- What is the one professional skill you have that has gotten you where you are today? Resilience
- What is the single greatest issue facing Arizona today? We need to prioritize education and empower Arizona’s students to continue our state’s economic momentum.
About Me
I am a first-generation Chicana from L.A. Growing up, I learned the value of community and compassion from my mom.
I earned my B.A. from California State Northridge and my Executive MBA from University of Arizona.
After my career in hospitality, I joined Chicanos Por La Causa in 2006. I served as president of CPLC Insurance, VP of Accounting, VP of Business Enterprises, and CFO where CPLC grew 400%. Currently, I am serving as president and CEO of CPLC, one of the largest community development corporations in the country, providing services to six states and overseeing more than 2,000 employees.
