Latino Leaders Magazine: The Business Edition

LEADERS O N T RUMP www.latinoleaders.com January / February 2017 Vol. 18 No. 1

CONTENTS JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2017

HENRY CISNEROS

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COVER STORY:

NINA VACA

Latinos on Trump- Top Latino leaders in the country have given us their thoughts and views over the new Trump administration.

JAVIER PALOMAREZ 2 • January / February 2017

CONTENTS JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2017

6 Publisher’s letter- Jorge Ferraez introduces our main feature, Leaders on Trump, where we interview Latino leaders about their organizations stance on the Trump administration.

8 Editor’s Letter- Editor Sarai Vega shares her recommendations for this special business edition.

10 Robert Renteria- Civic Leader and Author Robert Renteria has used his inspiring story and personal motivation to bring young teens off the street. He talks about the work he has done inside public schools and youth prisons of Chicago.

12 Miriam Trejo- Cancer patient Miriam Trejo shares with us her journey alongside Cancer Treatment Centers of America.

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14 ALPFA- John Ramirez has an extraordinary background. He has served in the military and is now the Dean of Operations at the University of Phoenix. One of ALPFA’s finest leaders.

16 Hispanic DC Chamber of Commerce-

Spotlight on Angela Franco, President and CEO of Greater Washington Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.

18 Access to Capital panel- Luis Maizel and Ramon Cepeda provide insight, insider tips and guidance to navigate through the area of business finances and access to capital.

20 Henry Cisneros- Focus on former Mayor of San Antonio Henry Cisneros.

ROBERT RENTERIA

24 Radhames Nova-

President and CEO of Junior Achievement of Northern New England Radhames Nova is leading a movement in Northern New England focused on stimulating young people to prepare for the professional world. Meet Cynthia Izzo and Cesar Asiatico, who have also played key roles in the growth of Junior Achievement.

CORRECTIONS Page 35 • The name of University of Texas- Pan American is incorrect. The correct name is University of Texas Rio Grande Valley.

• They are located in various sites including Edinburg, Brownsville and Harlingen.

• There was no merger. UTRGV was formed with the assets of both legacy institutions.

• Enrollment is just a little over 27,000.

University of the Incarnate Word

University of Texas – Arlington

University of Texas – Austin

University of Texas – El Paso

www.uiw.edu

www.uta.edu

www.utexas.edu

www.utep.edu

UIW joins a number of San Antonio schools on the list with a 53 percent Hispanic student body and a 37 percent Hispanic faculty. With 10,984 total students, the school also was named a Bright Spot in Hispanic Education by the White House Initiative on Educational Excellence for Hispanics. The Graduate Support Center includes 230 programs that invest in key education priorities for Hispanics. The initiative seeks to leverage these Bright Spots to encourage collaboration between stakeholders focused on similar issues in sharing data-driven approaches, promising practices, peer advice and effective partnerships, ultimately resulting in increased support for educational initiatives in the Hispanic community that last from cradle to career.

As one of the largest suburbs of Dallas, Arlington is home to a university with 57,000 students. Twenty-eight percent of the student body is Hispanic, and the school has received accolades for diversity from numerous academic lists.

The Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU) named the university its 2014 Outstanding HACUMember Institution for its contributions to Hispanic higher education. Hispanic Network Magazine ranked the school among the nation’s Best of the Best Schools in 2015. Seventy-three percent of students receive scholarships and the school was recently named a Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI). The HSI designation makes UT eligible for funding from specific programs and initiatives aimed at promoting academic success for Hispanic students, but it benefits everyone enrolled at the institution.

With 20 percent Hispanic students, the Longhorns boast a total enrollment of 50,950. As the number of Hispanic Americans in the United States grows, so does the potential for Hispanics to seek leadership roles. Launched in 2009, the initiative measures emerging political and policy trends in the Hispanic community, recognizes Hispanic leadership, develops and hosts relevant information, and seeks to increase recruitment of students from diverse backgrounds to the university.

The Hispanic Alumni Network aims to make a difference in the lives of Hispanic students by providing committed alumni volunteers and promoting outreach, mentorship, scholarship and fellowship.

Of the estimated 23,397 students at the El Paso-based university, 80 percent are Hispanic, with a faculty that is 60 percent Hispanic. That easily makes it not only one of the most Latino-friendly schools on the list, but also in the country. According to a 2015 Washington Monthly survey, UTEP is among the top 10 national universities, joining the likes of Texas A&M, UCLA, Stanford and Harvard.

UTEP recently received a landmark grant by the National Science Foundation — one of the first ever given by the NSF — to enhance U.S. leadership in science and engineering by broadening participation in the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).

University of Texas – Pan American

University of Wyoming

www.utrgv.edu

www.uwyo.edu

Located in Edinburg, Texas, UT Pan American merged with the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, thus making it the 10th-largest in the state at an estimated 20,000 students. It ranks fourth nationally in the number of bachelor’s degrees awarded to Hispanics nationwide, according to an annual report published by Diverse Issues in Higher Education. The Diverse Issues in Higher Education report ranks the school first in awarding bachelor’s degrees in Health Professions and Related Programs, second in bachelor’s degrees to Hispanics in English Language and Literature/Letters, and third in bachelor’s degrees to Hispanics in Biological and Biomedical Sciences.

The Laramie-based university currently has an estimated 13,500 students, 7 percent of whom are Hispanic. The Multicultural Student Leadership Initiative (MSLI) is a leadership-training program for students who support diversity and want to make a difference during their time at UW. MSLI was designed to support U.S. ethnic minority students and all students who want to promote diversity through leadership. MSLI peer mentors are students who have been involved with leadership activities on campus for at least one year. MSLI faculty/staff mentors are from a wide range of campus academic, professional and personal backgrounds. MSLI Triads meet at least every other week to build a positive support network.

W Western Illinois University www.whittier.edu

The Whittier, California, school joins the list as one of the smallest universities with only 1,670 students and a 44 percent Hispanic student rate.

Among its faculty, Hispanics comprise 28 percent, with a 13-to-1 student to teacher ratio. As a designated Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI), Whittier College is just one case study where Latino students regularly outperform their peers on a national level in reggards ards to matriculation and graduation rrates. ates. In 2010, 63 percent of Latino sstudents tudents at Whittier graduated in four yyears. ears. HSIs represent 9 percent of nnon-profi on-profit colleges and universities in tthe he country, yet enroll 16 percent of all students in postsecondary (non-profit) schools, and serve 54 percent of all Latino students.

50 Best Universities for Latinos

4 • January / February 2017

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CODIGO LATINO IN ATLANTA

34 Million Dollar Club Index- Companies on this

list have made it a responsibility to aid minority and women owned enterprises. As the pool of minority businesses grow, so does opportunity. This list, provided by USHCC, contain these top corporations.

24 RADHAMES NOVA

26 SPECIAL BUSINESS EDITION-

USHCC introduces our Special Business Edition feature with a letter to Latino Leaders readers.

28 Supplier Diversity- Three small businesses have established important affiliation with major corporates. Dolores Rodriguez from Milagro Packaging, April Diez from The Diez Group, and Vincent Rossy from CorTech talk about their involvement with companies Toyota, Ford and UPS. 32 Connectors- Senator Jeff Flake and Senator John McCain have defended Latino-owned businesses. Both share about how imperative and favorable Latino entrepreneurship is to American economy.

36 Top Latinos in Aviation- Spotlight on three Latinos who have made their mark in the Aviation industry.

50 Wealth Creation in Palo Alto-

A group of professional Latino leaders gathered in Silicon Valley to discuss the opportunities for Latinos in the tech industry. As an industry that is constantly developing, this group has agreed that there is a need for more Latinos in tech.

52 Codigo Latino in Atlanta-

Latino leaders met in Atlanta and were challenged to define the future of the “new Latino identity”.

54 Alejandra Louden-

She is FDIC´s Financial Institution Examiner and she talks about her path towards a profession within FDIC.

55 Jordi Botifoll- CISCO´s agent of change.

This Latino is ready to change the industry of telecommunications.

56 Latino Leaders Cellar-

Our Publisher, Jorge Ferraez, shares two exquisite wines from Shafer wineries. Two red wines with impressive aromas and flavors.

JORGE & RAUL FERRAEZ / PRESIDENTS OF FERRAEZ USA

PUBLISHER’S LETTER

I

In the midst of the effervescence of the new administration and its initial actions, we wanted to ask the top Latino leaders in the nation their position on the new government, how were they coping with the Trump administration and what they were planning to do about it, in order to keep advancing their own goals and missions.

The answers were very similar: most of them want a “seat at the table.” A seat at a table that apparently has no more seats. Most of them want to be taken into account and participate in the decisions and policy making. Each one of them has an approach that aligns with the goals of the organizations they represent. This is also true in promoting education, entrepreneurship, immigration issues or promoting businesses. These are some of the top leaders from leading organizations that represent thousands. Added together, they make millions as a good part of the Hispanic community of the United States. It is a very impressive list, thoughtful leaders, some of the brightest minds and best advocates for Latinos.

However, perhaps the big difference among them is that some think they are part of the circle that the president listens to, and others think they have been left on the outside. The first ones are trying to become the “link” between the administration and the Hispanic community; the latter are trying to elevate their voice and demand to be included.

Our big question — a theme for a later edition this year — will be: “Is there a common, concerted strategy? Is there a call to action for specific results? Are they planning to keep doing their work, each from their respective positions?”

Maybe having a government that is not flirting nor appealing with Latinos can make our community work together for a common objective, and in the end, get better results and achieve a greater rate of advancement.

Jorge & Raul Ferraez

6 • January / February 2017

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

H Hello readers!

For those who faithfully keep up with us, you might come across a new face. That would be mine! I will be fulfilling the duties of Editor. Our previous editors have done an amazing job and I am ecstatic to continue carrying the torch. You know what else is exciting? This edition! We’ve been working hard throughout these past weeks to bring you the first edition of 2017, the Business Edition.

It has been a pleasure to meet such incredible people, like Robert Renteria, whom I got the chance to chat with about his work. He is doing such a great job in inner-city schools in Chicago and in prisons. As I talked with him, all I could hear was the passion in his voice. I started to feel his same excitement!

Another story I had the pleasure working on was the feature on Radhames Nova, president and CEO of Junior Achievement of Northern New England. He and his staff are leading an incredible movement in the North. They have a team willing and capable of creating the future leadership of this country.

The beginning of a new year always marks changes and shifts. This year was no exception. As we welcomed in a new year, the White House also welcomed a new president, Donald Trump. This might be an understatement, but this has been a roller coaster ride. Within a few weeks, the president has managed to stir up all types of emotions, good and bad. For our main story, Latino Leaders staff has reached out to top Latino leadership in the country to get insight, thoughts, plans and strategies. With change approaching, it’s imperative that we look to our community leaders for guidance.

Let’s not forget our Cancer Treatments Centers of America (CTCA) story. This one is special. We’ve heard from doctors and executives the great things CTCA is doing. Now we are flipping the coin and we get to meet Miriam Trejo. She has been a patient and has been receiving care at CTCA. Miriam shares her story with us, and we couldn’t be anymore proud to share this with you.

Latino Leaders also had the distinguished pleasure of talking with two U.S. senators, Jeff Flake and John McCain. Read as they talk about how Latino business and entrepreneurship have played a key role in the development of the economy of the U.S. And if you missed our Wealth Creation event in Palo Alto, Calif., and the Codigo Latino event in Atlanta, you will also find brief coverage of those two memorable events.

Without further ado and hoping to personally meet you all very soon, Enjoy!

Publisher Jorge Ferraez

President and CEO Raul Ferraez

Director of Journalism Mariana Gutierrez Briones mariana@latinoleaders.com Event and PR Director Mireya Cortez mireya@latinoleaders.com Administrative Director Lawrence Teodoro Managing Editor Sarai Vega svega@latinoleaders.com Washington, D.C. Sales Associate and Representative Deyanira Ferraez dferraez@latinoleaders.com Karla Espinoza kespinoza@latinoleaders.com Art Director Fernando Izquierdo ferdiseno@latinoleaders.com Editorial Art & Design Rodrigo Valderrama Carlos Cuevas Luis Enrique González Moisés Cervantes Oswaldo Bernal Guerrero West Coast Editor Judi Jordan judijordanll@yahoo.com Human Resources Manager Susana Sanchez Administration and Bookkeeping Claudia García Bejarano Executive Assistant to the Publishers Liliana Morales Social Media Manager and Graphic Designer Kenzie Tysl For advertising inquiries, please call 214-206-4966 x 227.

Latino Leaders: The National Magazine of the Successful American Latino (ISSN 1529-3998) is published seven times annually by Ferraez Publications of America Corp., 15443 Knoll Trail, Suite 210, 75248 Dallas, TX, USA, February / March 2017.

Subscription rates: In U.S. and possessions, one year $15.00. Checks payable to Ferraez Publications of America, 15443 Knoll Trail, Suite 210, 75248 Dallas, TX, USA. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Latino Leaders, 15443 Knoll Trail, Suite 210, 75248 Dallas, TX, USA.© 2001 by Ferraez Publications of America Corporation. All rights reserved. No part of this periodical may be reproduced without the consent of Latino Leaders: The National Magazine of the Successful American Latino. The periodical’s name and logo, and the various titles and headings therein, are trademarks of Ferraez Publications of America Corp.

Sarai Vega Managing Editor

Member of The National Association of Hispanic Publications

Audited by Member of Reg. # 283/01

MEMBER OF SRDS

8 • January / February 2017

Latino Leaders The National Magazine of the Successful American Latino 15443 Knoll Trail, Suite 210, 75248 Dallas, TX, USA Phone: (214) 206-4966 / Fax: (214) 206-4970

Neli Vazquez Rowland

Providing Hope: Saving the Next Generation STORY BY CHRISS SWANEY

Landing he gang problem has long afflicted large numbers of the nation’s youth, with 1.4 million young Americans today wearing the colors of the more than 30,000 violent gangs that peddle dope and despair nationwide.

But a Latino change agent has emerged to plant new roots for a new America. Robert Renteria is revolutionizing the way this country must work to solve its deadly drug, gang and crime problems.

Renteria, author of “From the Barrio to the Board Room,’’ “Mi Barrio,’’ and “Little Barrio,’’ demonstrates that dreams can be realized through education, determination, perseverance and hard work.

Using his life experiences in the rough East Los Angeles barrio, along with his business acumen, Renteria helps address conditions that lead to violence, delinquency, drugs and gangs while promoting education, personal pride, accomplishment and self-esteem.

“My own story of motivation, relentless drive and success remains solid proof that where you come from does not dictate who you are,’’ said Renteria.

Renteria’s life patterns would make great lyrics for a hip-hop album. He was abandoned by his drugaddicted father at age 6, suffered severe head trauma in a carnival accident as a youth and joined a vicious street gang as a teen, where he sold drugs. As a gang member, he was stabbed and shot.

“I grew up from sleeping as an infant in a dresser drawer and years of poverty and abuse to become a successful business leader,’’ said Renteria, who was recently appointed as the World Boxing Council and WBC Cares Youth Chairperson, representing 165 countries. He was also the first Latino worldwide to receive the International Outstanding Humanitarian Award for promoting peace and education and to garner two national Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. Awards for his work as a civil rights leader and a Latino voice in educational reform.

Renteria wants today’s youth to understand that there are consequences for their actions in life. To that end, he likes to tell the story about how he converted a gang member in 2006 to believe in the boundless rewards of honest work.

“I was driving my Mercedes Benz through a rough part of Chicago and got stopped by some gang members. They admired my car and asked me how they could obtain such a cool vehicle,’’ Renteria recalled. He took the gang members to a local pub and treated them to a beer. But before they left, Renteria scrawled two magic words on their napkin: “Hard Work.’’

“I will never forget the expression on their faces. And that’s the kind of impact I want my books and work to have,’’ he said.

GET ROBERTO KNOW Not only are his books being used as teaching tools in schools nationwide, but some T RENT ERIA 200,000 visually challenged youths are also being exposed to his work, learning the R ecently, importance of social and emotional learning.

R Youth C obert Rente ri o Renteria reports that social and emotional learning can help students develop the Boxing C mmittee Chair a was appointe person ouncil a by the W d as n d W B understanding, strategies and skills that support a positive sense of self, provide respectful 165 cou C Cares represe orld ntries. nting relationships, and build student capacity to recognize and manage their own emotions and He was make reasonable decisions. ever rec the first Latino e “It’s a process that helps both children and adults effectively manage emotions by achieving Human ive an Internati in the world to it peace a arian Award fo onal Outstandin positive goals and showing empathy,’’ said Renteria, whose compassion and positive business r nd educ ation, an promoting glob g Martin Lu attitude gave him the most votes for Chicago’s Latino Business Professional of the Year in as a civil ther King Jr. A d two National al Dr. wards fo rights le r his ade 2010. In 2015, he was also named to Chicago’s “Who’s Who Hispanic Leaders.” educatio r and a Latino vo work n ic a l e reform. in In that rugged, unforgiving town, Renteria continues to promote his universal In 2012, message of hope and dreams. “There is always a way to overcome seemingly R o Barrio” w bert Renteri a’s as impossible obstacles,’’ he said.

America voted the best graphic novel “M c , Spain, and the omic book in L i His barrio books are designed to teach children and adults that education is the most a address U ing youth nited States fo tin r powerful weapon one can use to change the world. “These books teach our kids that the issues. ultimate weapon is not a loaded gun, but an educated mind. That gang banging is not a lifestyle, but a death style … Bright futures are built on a strong education, and that equal education means equal pay. That is a great equalizer for any race,’’ said Renteria.

In America today, drugs kill more people than cars or guns, according to a recent FBI report.

That same report also acknowledges that 50 percent of all violent crime in the U.S. is carried out by gangs.

With high rates of gang participation and homicides that lead to death, more than one in three Latinos report they live within miles of dangerous areas where they are afraid to walk. And yet criminal justice reports find that Latinos have the lowest percentage of reporting crimes like burglary and assaults.

“We need to shift focus and start to get everyone involved in watching and preventing crime,’’ said Renteria, who also points out that reports show Latinos are arrested for a disproportionate number of misdemeanors.

But after 45 years of more than $1 billion spent on crime fighting and the world’s largest prison system, America is still drowning in a proliferation of crime, according to Renteria.

"We need financial support to further the cause and for people to also get involved to help save our kids from bullying, gangs, violence, drugs, and our kids from dropping out of school!", said Renteria.

If anyone wants to get involved with this important mission and The Barrio Movement to please contact Robert Renteria. All financial contributions are tax deductible.

For more information, visit www.fromthebarrio.com

CANCER TREATMENT CENTERS OF AMERICA® Story by Diane

Alter | Photo: Courtesy of CTCA

MIRIAM TREJO: MY JOURNEY WITH CANCER JUST 29 YEARS OLD AND A NEWLYWED, MIRIAM TREJO’S THOUGHTS WERE FOCUSED ON BUILDING A LONG LIFE WITH HER HUSBAND. THOSE THOUGHTS WERE QUICKLY CLOUDED IN MARCH 2014 WHEN SHE WAS DIAGNOSED WITH BREAST CANCER.

T

rejo’s first brush with breast cancer was about two years before her diagnosis. Feeling a lump on her right breast, her gynecologist ordered an ultrasound.

The results that came back did not seem to be abnormal. However, a year later, not only was the lump still there; a new one appeared. Yet again, ultrasound results came back normal. Trejo’s doctor reassured her that nothing was wrong and her dense breasts were normal for her age.

MIRIAM TREJO

Yet Trejo knew deep down that something was not right.

Trejo had additional symptoms to report during her third visit to the gynecologist after the first lump surfaced. In addition to crustiness and nipple discharge, she was experiencing shooting chest pains.

She asked for something other than an ultrasound. Trejo underwent an MRI, hoping she would finally get some answers.

Still, she was unprepared for the answers she received.

The radiologist told Trejo she needed an urgent mammogram, ultrasound and biopsy. The results revealed she had HER2positive breast cancer, as well as Paget’s disease of the breast.

Trejo’s father-in-law, who lives in Phoenix, Arizona, suggested she call Cancer Treatment Centers of America® (CTCA).

The first phone call, the quick paperwork, and the initial consultation left Trejo feeling encouraged. Touring the hospital with a cancer survivor, she felt reassured and calm amid a sea of smiling people in an optimistic atmosphere. She knew she had come to the right place.

Cancer Treatment Centers of America® •

For nearly three decades, Cancer Treatment Centers of America® (CTCA) has been helping patients win the battle against cancer via advanced technology and a uniquely personalized approach.

•

CTCA® believes that every cancer is as singular as the individual fighting it.

•

CTCA experts only treat cancer. These highly trained professionals treat every stage of the disease with a multidisciplinary care team, state-of-the-art technologies and pioneering treatment options—all under one roof.

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The CTCA integrative treatment model treats cancer with conventional approaches such as surgery, immunotherapy and chemotherapy, as well as evidence-informed supportive therapies to manage cancer-related side effects.

•

CTCA has five hospitals across the United States. They can be found in major metropolitan areas such as Philadelphia and Tulsa, Oklahoma. Other locations are near Atlanta, Chicago and Phoenix.

Trejo underwent a double mastectomy followed by six chemotherapy treatments and seven weeks of radiation. Next began a yearlong treatment with trastuzumab (Herceptin®), a monoclonal antibody specifically targeted for HER2-positive breast cancer.

Miriam said her experience at CTCA® was empowering.

She was part of the decision-making process from start to finish.

Her care team was a crew of uniquely helpful people who became lifelong friends, along with other employees and patients Trejo came to know during her time at CTCA. Trejo’s naturopathic oncology provider and her clinical oncology dietitian helped her manage and prevent side effects. They taught her how to shop for and cook healthy foods, and recommended supplements to take during and after treatment to help with recovery.

An educated and resolute patient, Trejo took full advantage of the integrative services offered at CTCA including acupuncture, chiropractic care, lymphatic drainage massage, pastoral support, physical therapy and occupational therapy. She also joined the Cancer Fighters® care network so she could lend support to others coping with a cancer diagnosis.

“This disease gave me a better perspective on what matters and what doesn’t matter, and a renewed appreciation for the people in my life,” Trejo said. “It also showed me what true health care really is, or can be. At CTCA, I received not only hope and encouragement, but also sophisticated medical care.”

For more information visit www.cancercenter.com

LATINO LEADERS IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

L AT INO LE A DE R S

®

Empowering Latino Leaders

John Ramirez An admirable Latino and exceptional leader Story by: Latino Leaders Staff Writers

J

ohn Ramirez MBA, MS/AJS-GHS, USA CSM is a retired US Army Command Sergeant Major with over 27 years of military service. During his distinguished 27-year military career, Command Sergeant Major (Retired) Ramirez held numerous leadership positions. In 2004, John was selected as one of the “Top Hispanic Leaders” in the Army.

He is a graduate from the United States Army Sergeants Major Academy and recipient of the Sergeant Major of the Army William Bainbridge Ethics Award.

John has been a member of the University of Phoenix for over 10 years. He is currently the Dean of Operations for the School of Advanced Studies. He is a life-long learner and has a passion for education. John earned his Master of Business Administration and a Master of Science and Administration of Justice and Security with a concentration in Global and Homeland Security.

John is a member of numerous groups including the American Association of Hispanics in Higher Education (AAHHE), American Society for Industrial Security (ASIS), Council of Colleges and Military Educators (CCME), American Legion, Association of the United States Army (AUSA), Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (AZHCC), and the Association of Latino Professionals For America (ALPFA). He is the ALPFA’s 2016 Veteran of the Year.

Can you tell us about your background?

I was born and raised in the housing projects and Latino neighborhoods of Phoenix, Arizona. After my first semester in college and as soon as I turned 17, I made the decision to enlist in the Army. My decision to serve was a desire to follow in the footsteps of the proud Latino men in my family and my community who had served in the military. I felt compelled to follow their example.

I proudly served my country for over 27 years. I served in a number of positions from team leader to Brigade Command Sergeant Major and assigned to locations across the globe. I was able to obtain the highest enlisted rank and had the privilege to lead, influence, and support thousands of soldiers and their families.

In November 2004, I retired and began my employment with University of Phoenix. I have held numerous positions, from Senior Operations Manager to Vice President of External Military Relations. I am currently the Dean of Operations for the School of Advanced Studies and am responsible for the daily operations of our Doctoral programs.

14 • January / February 2017

I have been married to my wife, Sonya, for almost 39 years and together we are actively involved in a number of organizations that promote the value of education, economic development, empowerment, and service to country, specifically focused on military veterans and our Latino community.

At ALPFA’s national convention you talked about “Service to Country.” Can you share your story and the impact Latinos have made in serving our nation?

I am the grandson, son, and father of a soldier; I am a soldier. The four generations of my family who have served represent but a small fraction of the hundreds of thousands of Latinos who have served in our Armed Forces over the past 240 years, from the Revolutionary War to the current conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq. The journey of these proud Latinos represents the concepts and the ideas of citizenship and service to the nation forged in the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. Their service embodies the character of public service and these soldiers’ willingness to give their lives in defense of our country.

I believe it is important that we never forget the sacrifices of Latinos who served our country and oftentimes never received the recognition or gratitude they earned or deserved. We must never forget that etched on the tombstones at Arlington National Cemetery are thousands of the fallen warriors with Spanish surnames or that nearly 25 percent of names on the walls of the Vietnam Memorial are engraved with names of Latinos who served during a time when Latinos made up less than5 percent of the United States population. Nor should we forget that 61 Latinos have been awarded the Medal of Honor.

I believe that as members of the Latino community, we can honor them by fulfilling our responsibility in service of our country. Service to country is not limited to or the sole responsibility of those in uniform. Each of us shares the responsibility to do our part to better our country, our communities, our organizations, our families, and ourselves. I cannot stress enough the value and honor that comes from giving our time, energy, and support in service of our community and country, or the pride that comes with it.

Why did you get involved with ALPFA/Impact of ALPFA in your life/the life of others?

I think we are at a critical juncture in American history. There are over 60 million Latinos in the United States and Puerto Rico, and in 2015, the Latino purchasing power nationwide was an estimated $1.5 trillion. More importantly, Latinos are the largest minority group on U.S. college campuses. I believe we have the responsibility to do our part to ensure we have a voice and recognize the potential that Latinos have to shape our nation as future business, political, and community leaders.

I believe ALPFA is in the position to have a profound and lasting impact on the future of our great country. Our mission states it clearly: “To empower and develop Latino men and women as leaders of character for the nation, in every sector of the global economy.” I also believe that woven throughout the fabric of our organization are exceptional leaders like our Phoenix Chapter President, Alain Monroy, who also served in the Armed Forces as a captain in the Army. He, like his peers in ALPFA chapters across the country, are the nation’s finest leaders, and when combined with the support of great industry partners, are focused on doing their best for our Latino youth, our communities, and our country. For me, my involvement in ALPFA is a call to action. I am proud to be an ALPFA ambassador and will be a formidable ALPFA role model and advocate.

latinoleaders.com

L AT INO LE A DE R S

Angela Franco:

Advocating Minority Businesses in the Nation’s Capital Design by: Carlos Cuevas

Angela Franco has always had a passion for business and building relationships. As President and CEO of the Greater Washington Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (GWHCC), she now channels that decades-long passion into ensuring Latinoowned and minority businesses have a voice in the larger business community in the Washington, DC, Metro region.

The Washington Metropolitan area is home to 906,000 people of Hispanic origin, making up 15.3 percent of the population, according to the Pew Research Center. The area has the 12th largest Latino population in the country.

“Hispanics are entrepreneurs at heart,” says Franco. “I am passionate about providing Latino and minority-owned businesses with the tools, coaching, and opportunities to reach their full, and promising, potential.”

This passion for helping to grow businesses in the region brought Franco to the GWHCC. The organization has thrived under her guidance since she took the helm in November of 2009. Upon assuming the position, her top priorities were to solidify GWHCC’s funding and grow the Chamber’s membership base. Under Angela’s leadership, GWHCC’s enrollment has skyrocketed from approximately 100 members to over 700. This has led to annual revenue of $1.3 million, up from $300,000 when she took the helm.

These are among the accomplishments that led the US Hispanic Chamber of Commerce to award GWHCC the formidable title of “Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of the Year” in both 2013 and 2015.

The GWHCC has helped Latino businesses thrive with programs such as Small Business Technical Assistance offerings and Workforce Development programming. In the past year alone, Angela has worked tirelessly to launch workforce development programs in partnership with the DC Mayor’s Office on Latino Affairs, expand technical assistance programs to Prince George’s and Montgomery counties and played a leading role in two regional economic development trips to Cuba.

16 • January / February 2017

Even with all of her accomplishments, Angela says she is just getting started. She and her small but mighty team of eight has been working to encourage minority businesses to be a part of GWHCC and take advantage of its programs. “The Chamber has had a steady and balanced growth throughout the years,” says Franco, “and with that growth comes opportunities to engage all of DC’s Metro region minority-owned businesses, bringing their talent into our diversified network.”

Franco directed her belief in the immense abilities of the Latino and minority workforce into her career trajectory. Born in Berkeley, CA, Franco spent most of her childhood in Bogota, Columbia. After obtaining degrees in business administration, finance, and life coaching from universities all over the world, she began her career in the financial world working in insurance and banking with a focus on the management of customer relationships and a passion for business development. In 2001, Franco joined the United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Foundation team, before joining BB&T bank. At BB&T, Franco became Manager of the Multi-Cultural Market where she led the bank’s Hispanic Initiative in the DC region, before joining GWHCC. It is Franco’s diverse experiences and passions that allow her to be the transformational leader taking GWHCC to great heights.

“We’ve accomplished a lot together,” Franco said. “But this is just the tip of the iceberg. There’s more work to do and I can’t wait to see where 2017 will take us.”

THE GWHCC SERVES THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, ARLINGTON COUNTY, MONTGOMERY COUNTY, AND SOON, PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY. THE CHAMBER WILL HOST THEIR 8TH ANNUAL BUSINESS EXPO ON APRIL 17TH, 2017 AT THE WALTER E. WASHINGTON CONVENTION CENTER. RATHER THAN FOCUSING EXCLUSIVELY ON HISPANIC BUSINESSES, THE EVENT WILL BE THE CHAMBER’S FIRST-EVER ALL MINORITY BUSINESS EXPO! LAST YEAR’S EVENT BOASTED 1,880 ATTENDEES, 172 EXHIBITORS, 97 SPONSORS & PARTNERS, INCLUDING 27 COMPANIES FROM LATIN AMERICA (PART OF GWHCC’S “PROMOTING TRADE AMONG THE AMERICAS” PROGRAM). PLEASE JOIN US!

PANEL

L AT INO LE A DE R S

ACCESS TO CAPITAL

by Latino Leaders staff

LUIS MAIZEL

RAMON CEPEDA

President, LM Capital

Senior Managing Director, Northern Trust Chicago, IL

San Diego, CA

18 • January / February 2017

LL- The Hispanic Community is recognized as one with the highest levels of entrepreneurship, how do you explain this?

Luis Maizel: The need to “make it” is the biggest driver of entrepreneurship. Latinos want independence, a better life, and they don’t trust the general population to be helpful in becoming successful so they attempt it on their own.

Ramon Cepeda: I believe this is an immigrant mindset that is amplified within the Hispanic Community because we are so large, but Hispanics incorporate so many aspects of our culture into our professional careers. We see it as a vehicle through which we can improve our lives and that of our families. We have a unique perspective having come here recently, we see the opportunity as much more attainable and we also see it as the ultimate goal.

LL- What do you see as big challenges for the medium and small sized Latino companies when it comes to get Capital to fund the business?

Luis Maizel: Banks and funds tend to give out umbrellas when it is sunny and pick them up when it starts sprinkling. There is a definite bias against small businesses as they need to finance mostly ideas, not assets and the wrong perception that Latinos are sloppy and less organized makes getting money very difficult.

Ramon Cepeda: It’s difficult to build up credit and provide financials worth of securing business loans and lines of credit needed to grow.

LL-Are there any alternatives, that are not major financial institutions, for small business funding?

Luis Maizel: Community banks specializing in SBA loans, investment clubs, and savvy angels are the best sources of financing.

Ramon Cepeda: Depending on the life cycle of the business, you can start with a micro lender such as ACCION, which finances loans from $10,000 to $100,000. ACCION happens to be a nonprofit, but there are many non-bank financial institutions and crowdfunding. All lending is local, so it depends on your market, but there are many crowdfunding platforms. Kickstarter and Indiegogo are popular.

LL-Do you know of any other cases in which financing has been part of a strategy to advance part of the economy?

Luis Maizel: Japan and Finland are good examples of the Government using subsidized financing to direct specific fields of growth, in many cases allowing small business to participate.

Ramon Cepeda: I don’t have any examples of this, but generally speaking, making credit available to all businesses has to be at the center of any larger strategic plan for the growth of the economy. Small businesses traditionally hire the most amount of people, which is the engine for growth.

LL-What would be a smart way for a small business to obtain access to capital?

Luis Maizel: To get access to capital you need a very wellwritten business plan on an idea that satisfies a need in a field where the 800-pound gorillas don’t move comfortably.

Proven sales and testimonials on credible buyers are vital.

Ramon Cepeda: I would get involved with local chambers of business, both Latino-focused and mainstream. Don’t limit yourself. Most motivated capital providers are looking for potential clients at any one of these businessrelated entities. I would also get a good accountant right at the start.

LL- Does your company finance small or medium-sized Latino businesses?

Luis Maizel: We don’t make direct loans as we are investors in public instruments on behalf of our clients. Wearing my other hat of Board Member of a good size Community Bank in Southern California, we definitely make a lot of SBA loans and we love to see Latino entrepreneurs who are fully committed to the success of their companies.

Ramon Cepeda: Northern Trust does not finance small or medium-sized companies at all. We are not a retail or commercial bank. Northern Trust is in the Wealth Management and Asset Management business. Our focus is in helping clients whom have already built family wealth and require estate planning and other tools for wealth growth and preservation.

LL- What tools, other than capital, are necessary to grow a small business?

Luis Maizel: The process from ideation to an operating business requires implementation, administration, logistics and money and more important, the right people. It is the harmony of all elements that brings a concept to a successful fruition.

Ramon Cepeda: Hiring good people and learning how to market your self are keys to growing. Of course, providing a great product with great client service is a cornerstone.

L AT INO LE A DE R S

It’s no secret that the spirit of entrepreneurship and the impulse to succeed are prominent attributes of the Latino community. However, the lack of resources has been a barrier for many. More specifically, the lack of access to capital has signaled a “dead end” for a lot. Fortunately, financial institutions have extended aid to those who are committed to developing a successful business. Latino Leaders magazine has connected with two professionals in this industry that are ready to widen the bridge of opportunities for business owners. They have provided insight and guidance to facilitate the development of Latino entrepreneurship and enterprise establishment.

Henry Cisneros

Building the Heart of a City Story by: Kristian Jaime Photos by: Jason Gilmore

20 • January / February 2017

“Here in San Antonio, we’re working with the area around Mission Concepcion in the southern part of the city, and that will be a very attractive apartment complex.”

F

or San Antonio native Henry Cisneros, the many hats he has worn should more aptly be considered several professional lifetimes.

The former mayor of the Alamo City may be a hometown boy at heart, but he has spent a career establishing himself as a champion for the housing and urban renewal that is vital to sustaining growth in American cities.

Since leaving politics after being appointed Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary from 1993-97 under President Bill Clinton, his is now focused on real estate development.

“CityView is the home building business, an urban projects residential company that has raised funds totaling over $1.5 billion. It involves 87 projects in 13 states, and we’ve made a specialty of building in core cities,” said Cisneros.

While business interests have taken a national approach, the founder and chairman of CityView has never strayed too far from his roots.

Before making the move to Washington, D.C., he was at the helm of the seventh-largest city in the country from 1981-89. The unprecedented growth also has spurred additional funding for detached single-family housing and apartment living.

“Here in San Antonio, we’re working with the area around Mission Concepcion in the southern part of the city, and that will be a very attractive apartment complex,” Cisneros said. “I’m even invested in an infrastructure company that will be doing larger, non-residential projects across the country, including the VA hospital area in Cleveland. While I’m known for housing, as mayor, we invested in downtown, the convention center and flood control.”

Yet his first love has always been municipal development.

That became evident while serving as HUD Secretary and was essential to taking his place at Siebert Cisneros Shank & Co., LLC. Formerly Siebert Brandford Shank, the firm is a full-service investment banking and financial services company that was founded in 1996.

Their services include everything from underwriting bonds responsible for city improvements to community assets responsible for nurturing an influx of population.

“As HUD Secretary, I traveled to hundreds of U.S. cities across the 50 states, and that helps us understand how we can help people with municipal matters like bond issues for schools, airports and infrastructure. This was a great opportunity to build a minority-owned firm,” Cisneros added.

The unique perspective provided by developing and ensuring the next wave of community-based construction is more than a comprehensive business strategy. It highlights the very reason why such investment is necessary.

“The common theme [in all these projects] is developing cities and their urban areas.

I’m convinced now more than ever that the strength of America revolves around our cities. You see that in Dallas with the airport hub, and in Houston with its energy sector,” Cisneros said. latinoleaders.com

“CityView is the home building business, an urban projects residential company that has raised funds totaling over $1.5 billion.

It involves 87 projects in 13 states, and we’ve made a specialty of building in core cities.”

Texas has quickly become the focal point of an emerging Southwestern economy, see different languages and community institutions gowith Dallas, Houston and San Antonio forming the “Texas Triangle.” Not only does ing bilingual. People get frightened because they think it represent 75 percent of the state’s population, but millions of dollars in commerce the culture of America is changing.” and technology flow through there.

Perhaps one of the few bright spots during the It has become home to the headquarters of some of the largest corporations in contentious campaign was the buzz surrounding the the nation and it employs thousands in growing industries like biotechnology and youngest set of voters. Democratic and Republican the energy market. candidates did their best to demonstrate that they “I think the Texas Triangle is going to take its place along the East Coast and West would be the next generation of business owners and Coast cities, and what we might call the ‘heartland cities’ centered around Chicago, as economic leaders. the next major regional economic phenomena in the United States,” said Cisneros.

“Millennials are the largest age cohort in American Yet Cisneros does not sugarcoat the dilemma of the American dream. history. They are the best educated and are larger than After earning a BA and a master’s in Urban and Regional Planning from Texas the baby boomers,” continued Cisneros. “They have A&M University, he earned a master’s degree in Public Administration from Harvard been educated differently growing up in a post-9/11 University, studied urban economics at MIT and completed a Doctorate in Public world around them with technology. And they seem Administration from George Washington University. to be publicly oriented and socially In short, any measure of achievement is only gained minded because they are more diverse Henry Cisneros served as the 10th Secthrough study and hard work. Fortunately, those are values and global.” retary of Housing and Urban Development already engrained in the Hispanic culture.

(HUD) in the administration of President Bill With the next generation of Latino Clinton from 1993 to 1997. As Mayor of San “I am a great believer in the American spirit of ingenuleaders coming into their own, the quesAntonio in 1981, Cisneros worked to rebuild ity. People do not give up on their cities. America is blessed tion will be what type of leaders they the city’s economic base, recruited conventhat the largest immigrant group is Latino,” Cisneros exwill be. For many, the allure of a bustion business, attracted high tech industries, plained. “We are 55 million today, and that will be 100 miltling metroplex will mean a prosperous increased the level of tourism, and worked to lion by 2040. That will make us the largest minority group job market. bring more jobs to San Antonio. Henry Cisnerin the United States. They are so aligned with the American But Cisneros wants to offer an alteros co-founded CityView in 2000 and currently ideas of hard work.” native that has served him well. It was a serves as the firm’s chairman. He also sits on With the recent presidential election, there was no shorttrack that he credits for getting the ateach of its investment committees. He is curage of rhetoric concerning the benefits and drawbacks of tention former President Clinton and rently a member of the advisory boards of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and the immigration policy. But what was not in dispute was the launching his career after his political Broad Foundation, and was honored by the economic rise of some areas and the decline of others. days were behind him. He even hails a National Housing Conference as the “HousThat, coupled with an emerging Latino population in the more local approach to public service as ing Person of the Year.” Cisneros became national workforce, led many to call for stricter standards a calling. a partner at Siebert Cisneros Shank & Co., for those who wanted to make the United States home.

“You can either choose to go to a L.L.C. and was named chairman of the Ex“There’s a sense that the American economy has failed large city and try to become a big fish ecutive Committee and Principal. He was also many people, especially in the Midwest, Rust Belt cities,” or you can stay and build up your homethe recent recipient of the Walter F. Mondale Cisneros explained. “But when you overlay the change town,” he concludes. “I have chosen the and Edward W. Brooke Fair Housing Award, that’s happening with immigrants entering those areas, you latter course, and I don’t regret it.”

National Fair Housing Alliance in June 2009.

22 •January / February 2017

latinoleaders.com

L AT INO LE A DE R S

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“I did not speak any English at all,” he said, “and when I came to the United States I had to learn a new language and a new culture and a new way of life.”

“I was started off at a bilingual school. I was studying in Spanish and English, but within a year I was a member of the Boys and Girls Club,” he said.

Nova was able to transfer to Central Catholic High School, through the help of the club, and after graduation he managed to get into Middlebury College in Vermont.

During his time at Middlebury, Nova studied foreign languages and was looking at an international career. By the time he graduated in 1997, he could speak English, French, Italian and his native Spanish.

After college, Nova joined the Peace Corps and spent time in South Africa helping bring education reform to that part of the world, before coming back to Lawrence and the Boys and Girls Club in Lawrence in 2000.

“I became the first director of development of the same Boys and Girls club in Lawrence, including leading the capital campaign to build a new Boys and Girls Club,” he said. From there, he went to work for Fidelity Investments, but decided to shift gears after his first foray into the private sector.

“I was 35 years old and I started to think about what I really wanted to do long-term,” he said. “I came to the realization that my purpose in life was to help other young people from the inner city with diverse backgrounds.”

Nova became involved in the Boston chapter of ALPFA and worked to bring more Latinos on the boards of JA chapters and get professionals to volunteer with JA in the classroom.

He said throughout his career he has learned that his Latino heritage could be an advantage in his goal to help better educate children.

RADHAMES NOVA President and CEO Junior Achievement of Northern New England

RADHAMES NOVA:

CONTRIBUTING TO THE FUTURE LEADERSHIP OF AMERICA

R

Story by: Jason Ogden

Photo: Meghan Moore

adhames Nova, the president and CEO of Junior Achievement of Northern New England, has been working to help students pull themselves up by their bootstraps and become successful, much like he did as an immigrant from the Dominican Republic.

Nova, who rose to his current position in 2016, believes JA — an organization that promotes financial literacy, entrepreneurship and workforce readiness in students — could be the key to help today’s youth, especially minorities, become future leaders in business.

According to Nova, his story is similar to many immigrants who come to the United States. He began school in the Dominican Republic, but after eighth grade went to school in the U.S. after immigrating there with his family in 1989.

After coming to the U.S. and settling in the community of Lawrence, Mass., Nova assimilated into the culture.

About Junior Achievement •

•

•

Using hands-on experiences, JA helps to prepare young people for the real world by teaching skills in financial literacy, workforce readiness and entrepreneurship. Junior Achievement trains community volunteers to deliver curricula, and to incorporate the sharing of personal and professional experiences with students. The hallmark of Junior Achievement efforts, these mentors inspire students by transforming the JA lessons into relevant messages that connect what is learned in the classroom to real-world situations.

Depending on the local area, JA advocates work with business professionals — financial planners, bankers, business executives and others — who enter into schools as volunteer educators to work with students. These programs can be in elementary grades all the way through high school.

Junior Achievement of Northern New England (JAofNNE) offers twenty-

24 • January / February 2017

•

two programs for students in kindergarten through grade 12, which can be delivered both during the school day and in out-of-school settings. Each year, students across central and eastern MA, and the state of New Hampshire, participate in hands-on, interactive lessons taught by local business and community volunteers. JAofNNE’s theme-based programs are aligned to the Common Core Standards and support concepts required for success on standardized testing. JAofNNE has found that once students experience a JA program, they are eager for more. The JA Core Curriculum consists of age-appropriate programs centered on financial literacy, workforce readiness, and entrepreneurship. JAofNNE provides program materials to schools and after school sites at no cost.

More information about JA, as well as volunteer opportunities, can be found by visiting janewengland.org.

Cynthia Izzo:Lending Experience to the JAofNNE Board •

Cyndi is a principal in KPMG’s Advisory Services practice with more than 18 years Cynthia Izzo:Lending Experience to the of management advisory and business experience. Her JAofNNE Board focus areas include information security and privatization, Nova said with those technology pl• anning, internal external audit, controlAdvisory s and “We identify ourselves by the county we come from, Cyndi is a/principal in KPMG’s statistics, there are few risk assessments, project andthan business but then you realize you’re part of a much bigger famServicesmanagement, practice with more 18 years Latino representatives at process re-engineering and implementations. ily,” he said. “Where there are many of us from different of management advisory and business experience. Her the top of JA though the • Cyndi serves on thefocus Boardareas of Directors of JA of Northern countries, we share a similar culture; you do realize that include information security and privatization, organization New England andtechnol Corporate Board/external of the audit, controls and you have a bigger family of people across Nova to said with those ogy plAdvisory anning, internal “We identify ourselves by the the country.” county we come from, is working change that. statistics, there areBoston the Association of Latino s After coming to the saidyou’re he learned few Chapter of risk assessments, projectProfessional management, and business but thenU.S., youNova realize partthat of reacha much bigger fam“We have Latino very few of America (ALPFA).process re-engineering and implementations. ing across to other cultures was a valuable experience. representatives at ily,” he said. “Where there are many of us from different who that are serving “I am JA’sonboard.

JA’soffocus on of JA of Northern “Early on I countries, made a decision to assimilate to the local the on topthe of JA though the thrilled• to serve Cyndion serves the Board Directors we share a similar culture; you do realize board and weorganization are strug- is working preparing youth Engl for and bright reflectsAdvisory my community,”you he said. school my the country.” to today’s New andfuture Corporate Board of the have“When a biggerI went familytoofhigh people across own passion for mentorship, volunteering, knowledgefirst year, I wasAfter partcoming of the bilingual could gling to recruit volunchange that.

Boston Chapter of the Association of Latino Professionals to the U.S.,program.

Nova saidIhe learned that reachspeak Spanish I could talkcultures to people were teers who can share “Wetheir have very sharing few and education.” of America (ALPFA). ingand across to other was awho valuable experience. like me. At the “Early age of on 14,IImade madeaadecision decisiontotoassimilate go to a to story,” he said.who are serving on the “I am thrilled to serve on JA’s board. JA’s focus on the local private Catholic school that all“When English.

I wastothe and we are strugfor a field bright future reflects my Onemy of the board advantages of joining JA is havingpreparing experts today’s in the youth financial community,” hewas said.

I went high school only Latino infirst my year, class.”I was part of the bilingual program.teach own passion for mentorship, volunteering, knowledgein the classrooms a volunteer I could gling to on recruit volun-basis.

Nova said speak he attended theand school not talk because he who“We sharingofand education.” he said. want people take leadership roles at the head organizations,” Spanish I could to people were teers to who can share their wanted to break Latinos, but he wanted Nova JA can help Latinos thrive in the coming decades. He like from me. At the age ofbecause 14, I made a decision to go to abelieves story,” heultimately said. to do the best academically could.that was all English. Isaid is a tradition in the Latino culture toof bejoining businessJAstarters. private Catholicheschool wasitthe One of the advantages is having experts in the financial field The schoolonly wasLatino an awakening for him, he said.

“But we’re teach not learning the skills on to start basis. and grow a business in in my class.” in the classrooms onhow a volunteer “I learned notNova only tosaid be proud of my culture, but how any formal he said. more roles children, Latino he attended the school not because he way,”“We want“Imagine people tohow takemany leadership at theincluding head of organizations,” he said. to interact with people different he said.

“I hechildren, starting if they more training.” wanted toofbreak fromcultures,” Latinos, but because wanted who would Novabe believes JA businesses can ultimately helphad Latinos thrive in the Nova coming decades. He continued to be my heritage, but I learned to be said many people financially literate, as a to result do not participate to proud do theofbest academically he could. said are it is not a tradition in the Latinoand culture be business starters. successful in thisThe country, you have learn to speak the he said. in the economy.“But we’re not learning the skills on how to start and grow a business in school was anto awakening for him, language and interact withnot all the JA how programsany areformal available to he all said. students, but ahow special emphasis has been “I learned onlypeople.” to be proud of my culture, but way,” “Imagine many more children, including Latino Nova said to he interact believeswith thatpeople JA is anofimportant orgaplaced young people greatest need. This includes thosetraining.” Nova different cultures,” he said. on “I reaching children, who wouldwith be the starting businesses if they had more in immigrant and communities. continued to beyouth, proud but of my but I learned to be nization not only for Latino forheritage, all youth. saidminority many people are not financially literate, and as a result do not participate “Wethe are focusing areas where it is needed the most,” he said.

“Our mission successful is critical.in It is this to inspire country, and you prepare have to young learn to speak in the on economy.

Nova said theJA unique part isare this education is not being provided by teachlanguage and interact withhe all said. the people.” people to succeed in a global economy,” “We’re a programs available to all students, but a special emphasis has been Nova he believes JA is across an important global organization thatsaid serves 10 millionthat children ers, orgabut by corporate andreaching community volunteers. placed on young people with the greatest need. This includes those the world. Here in thenot U.S., wefor Latino youth, but for all youth.

“The wholeinmodel of JA and is tominority put these role models in front of students, immigrant communities. nization only serve 4.8 million“Our children andis25 which goes a long way,” said. on areas where it is needed the most,” he said.

“We are he focusing mission critical. It is to inspire and prepare young percent are Latino.”

A lot ofa groups in Massachusetts have assisted Nova said.is not being provided by teachNova said the unique part iswith this JA, education people to succeed in a global economy,” he said. “We’re of Northern England is fortunate to count on the support of some of global organization that serves 10 million children“JA across ers, New but by corporate and community volunteers.

Cesar Asiatico the world’s best companies formodel both volunteer financial Novainsaid. the: world. Here in the U.S., we “The whole of JA is and to put theseresources,” role models front of students, JA making a global impact, “For example, which Santander Bank hasway,” been among serve 4.8 million children and 25 goes a long he said.our largest financial contributors including Latin America and, perhaps more importantly, over 100 of their have employees have to percent are Latino.”

A lot of groups in Massachusetts assisted withvolunteered JA, Nova said.

• Cesar Asiático is the executive deliver JA programs 750 students duringisthis school year alone.”

“JAto ofover Northern New England fortunate to count on the support of some of Asiatico : director Cesar of Junior Achievement Dominicana.

The group has been able make lasting partnerships well. the world’s besttocompanies for both volunteerasand financial resources,” Nova said.

JA making a global impact, Through Junior Achievement, Asiático provides “We also value third year of partnership MassMutual a program “Forour example, Santander Bank haswith been among ouron largest financial contributors including Latin America a comprehensive youth leadership program that called FutureSmart, which more servesimportantly, over 1,500over middle inhave the volunteered to and, perhaps 100 school of their students employees reaches an• impressive year. classroom anddeliver bringsJAthem to the for a day of financial literacy Cesar30,000 Asiáticoyouth is theper executive programs to TD overGarden 750 students during this school year alone.”

• In addition to his servicesofat Junior Junior Achievement education and inspirational speakers,” Nova said. lasting “Thesepartnerships corporationsasand director Achievement Dominicana.

The group has been able to make well.

Dominicana, Asiático established his own others that support understand in our youth now is critical on a program ThroughhasJunior Achievement, Asiático provides “WeJA also value our that thirdinvesting year of partnership with MassMutual consulting firm, and has also servedyouth as part of the program to of ourFutureSmart, youth, our communities andover our 1,500 country.” a comprehensive leadership thatthe successcalled which serves middle school students in the National Competitiveness Council, charged with per year.

Nova said he sees a great the Latino reaches an impressive 30,000 youth classroom andfuture bringsinthem to thecommunity.

TD Garden for a day of financial literacy developing• a strategic vision based competiveness, optimistic about the future of the Latino community; I seecorporations a In addition to hisonservices at Junior Achievement“I am very education and inspirational speakers,” Nova said. “These and innovation and integral human Asiático development the huge opportunity to make an impact worldwide,” that he said.

“It’s a in matter of all now is critical Dominicana, has forestablished his own others that support JA understand investing our youth Dominican Republic. to prepare ouryouth, young our people.” consulting firm, and has also served as part ofus theworking together to the success of our communities and our country.”

• Among his manyNational educational degrees, Asiático was charged with Competitiveness Council, Nova said he sees a great future in the Latino community. also selected as adeveloping Young Leader of thevision Americas a strategic basedbyon competiveness, “I am very optimistic about the future of the Latino community; I see a the State Department to participate in a felhuman lowship development that innovation and integral for the huge opportunity to make an impact worldwide,” he said. “It’s a matter of all will help foster social and technol ogical entrepreneurs.

Dominican Republic. us working together to prepare our young people.”

• Among his many educational degrees, Asiático was also selected as a Young Leader of the Americas by the State Department to participate in a fellowship that will help foster social and technological entrepreneurs.

Special Business Edition Small Business is the backbone of our nation’s economy.

Two-thirds of all new American jobs are created by small businesses, and Hispanic enterprises are leading this critical growth; starting new ventures at a rate three times the national average.

An estimated 55 million Hispanics live in the U.S., approximately 17% of the country’s population, according to the Census Bureau. Further, there are more than four million Hispanic-owned businesses throughout the U.S., and their collective annual revenues have climbed to more than $668 billion, according to the U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.

Furthermore, the number of Hispanic-owned businesses has doubled since 2002. Had these businesses not been created, unemployment rate would have risen to over 10% for the first time in over 30 years, and the recession would have inched closer towards a depression. Hispanic firms helped put a floor on the financial collapse, and helped pave the path toward America’s economic recovery. Hispanics will account for 40% of employment growth over the next five years and more than 75% from 2020 to 2034.

In this issue we want to recognize and celebrate businessmen and women who represent the best of our community. They are critical to our economic recovery and strength, to building America’s future, and to helping the United States compete in today’s global marketplace. Hispanic-owned businesses are fast becoming the bell-weather for future growth.

Their relatively young age cohorts, increasing household incomes, and impact on the financial sector paint a very positive picture for the American economy during the next decade or more. that going forward, Hispanics will have more economic clout, employ a greater proportion of the population and purchase substantially more in goods and services than they do today. The dynamic growth of Hispanic-owned businesses will keep transforming the economic and political landscape in the United States in the years ahead.

Their enterprises are illustrative of the tremendous impact Hispanic businesses have on our nation’s economic prosperity, and a testament to the success of collaborating with corporate America through supplier diversity programs - a win-win business strategy that is both principled and profitable.

We are delighted to publicly acknowledge these business leaders as trailblazers in their respective industries.

-USHCC

26 • January / February 2017

Special Business Edition Supplier Diversity: Exchanging Business Story by: Diane Alter

Vincent Rossy and CorTech The way we buy goods and services has dramatically changed over the last decade thanks to the so-called “sharing economy.” This phenomenon has shaken up the employment landscape. Services are now performed on demand by people with the skills, tools and spare time to complete them. More and more people in a growing number of sectors have become part of the “gig economy” in the form of freelancers, contractors and part-timers. Reasons range from supplementing incomes to a more flexible work schedule.

To be sure, we have become a world of part-time workers for a number of reasons. Capitalizing on this growing trend is CorTech.

Founded in 1999 by Vincent Rossy and Gary Nichols, the duo had the foresight to create an innovative business model that combined Rossy’s acumen in IT with Nichols experience as a former owner of a clerical staffing company. The pair recognized a void in the traditional staffing market space and launched CorTech.

The aim has always been to mesh the opportunities employers look for with a skilled workforce that is required to make any businesses succeed. CorTech’s mantra is to “do things the right way.” The company’s corporate culture is based on value, honesty and an unwavering commitment to the delivery of services.

Headquartered in Atlanta, CorTech has been providing temporary staffing solutions in the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico to United Parcel Service Inc., also based in Atlanta. CorTech became a key vendor to UPS in 2010 via its relationship with the UPS-managed service provide Manpower-Tapfin.

Without question, CorTech’s partnership with UPS was a major turning point for the company.

“Being a partner to UPS has helped CorTech grow simply by the scale and market share that UPS has and earns,” Rossy told Latino Leaders Magazine. “Having a client like UPS is excellent as they have a world-known brand. Being able to grow our business with a client of their caliber helps to gain additional business and builds a sense of viability in the marketplace for a company like CorTech.”

Indeed, UPS is a global powerhouse in the package delivery and logistics market. Founded in 1907, UPS is one of the most recognized and admired global brands.

28 • January / February 2017

Our UPS partnership with CorTech is continually growing. They help support our U.S. Global Contingent Staffing Program and staffing for Logistics & Distribution throughout 55 UPS region/district locations. They not only help UPS in our day to day operation, but CorTech is a willing and capable partner helping UPS in times of unexpected staffing transitions in multiple locations with tight deadlines. They are aware of the business and industry compliance needs, finding qualified individuals to fit our needs of running the business.

UPS appreciated their dedication and service.

CorTech’s mantra is to “do things the right way.” The company’s corporate culture is based on value, honesty and an unwavering commitment to the delivery of services.

The company’s U.S. domestic package segment offers time-definite delivery of letters, documents, small packages and palletized freight through air and ground services in the U.S. The international package segment provides guaranteed day and time-definite international shipping services in Europe, the Asia Pacific, Canada and Latin America, the Indian sub-continent, the Middle East, and Africa. The supply chain and freight segment offers international air and ocean freight forwarding, customs brokerage, truckload freight brokerage, distribution and post-sales services, and mail and consulting services in some 220 countries and territories.

UPS operates a fleet of approximately 110,000 package cars, vans, tractors and motorcycles, and it owns 33,000 containers used to transport cargo in its aircraft. The company employs many retirees who are looking for the next chapter and seek reduced hours with benefits. The primary part-time positions are for package handlers who load, unload or sort within the operations. The company does not discriminate when it comes to age, focusing instead on a person’s ability and desire to do the job.

That’s where CorTech comes in.

April Diez and The Diez Group

CorTech understands that to stay ahead, organizations like UPS must run efficiently. And that starts with the best employees.

CorTech makes it a priority to understand a client’s business. Allowing CorTech to stand out is its track record for delivering on its promises, and taking every partnership personally and seriously. CorTech’s steadfast dedication to quality, experience, leadership and results are unrivaled in the staffing industry and have earned them the utmost respect from their peers.

“We provide staffing services with a sense of respect and integrity,” Rossy said.

CorTech staff will always take responsibility for all actions and will not hesitate to seek advice in pursuit of new opportunities to improve a client’s brand, which in turn improves its own.

Eighty percent

of success in business is simply showing up. No one knows that better than the Delaco Steel Corporation, an aluminum and steel manufacturing service center that specializes in blanking (exposed and unexposed), cut to length, laser welding, precision slitting, warehousing and logistics.

Since being founded by Geraldo Diez Sr. in 1973, Delaco has aggressively shown its mettle and muscle by showing how the family-owned business can successfully compete with big players in the space. Today, the Diez Group lead by Geraldo, who works tirelessly with his four children: April (Vice Chair), Sherry (Vice President), Jerry Jr. (President), and Mark (Vice President).

The company has evolved into a conglomerate of eight thriving companies that span approximately 2 million square feet within 10 facilities across a half dozen states. Each operation is strategically located to optimally service its key customers.

Delaco’s chief and long-time customer is Ford Motor Co. Delaco started its storied business partnership with Ford in the late 1970s. Soon after, Delaco developed a string of major contracts with Ford involving steels sales, processing and storage. Their partnership has grown significantly over the years thanks to Delaco’s business prowess, attention to detail and commitment to the iconic American automaker.

Special Business Edition Supplier Diversity: Exchanging Business

“We were instrumental in launching Ford’s Raw Material Supply Program in the early 1990s,” April Diez told Latino Leaders Magazine. “Delaco Steel strives to maintain world-class quality and on-time delivery. In 1997, the company received the distinction of becoming the first minority steel service center to be awarded Q1 by the Ford Motor Co. We concentrate on making both ourselves and our customers more cost effective.”

In 2010, Delaco spearheaded a scallop blanking initiative, which proved to be a major material and cost savings to Ford.

“We continue to work with Ford to further develop scallop blanks and other cost-saving strategies,” April continued. “Our relationship with Ford has been very successful due to the fact that Ford has clear objectives for growing the business as a minority-owned business (MBE).”

Delco is proudly the largest Hispanic company within the automotive manufacturing supply chain. Its business connection with Ford is a true partnership.

To qualify as a MBE under an Environmental Protection Agency program, an entity must establish that it is at least 51 percent owned and/or controlled by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals who are of good character and are citizens of the United States.

“Ford presents opportunity for diversification and encourages the MBE to realize its potential,” April added. “Ford continues to assist our partnership by rolling out the ONE Ford program.

By consolidating suppliers and outsourcing some of the operations, our volumes and opportunities increased. “ In addition, Ford encourage Tier 1 suppliers to meet their minority objectives. That, in turn, provides Delaco with additional business opportunity with the Tier 1s.

Without question, Ford has been tremendously instrumental in the growth and development of the Diez Group.

“We were humbled to receive their prestigious World Excellence Award for Diverse Supplier of the Year in 2015,” April said.

“In fact, we have received numerous awards from large original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) such as Ford, General Motors, Fiat Chrysler, and Johnson Controls. We have been recognized by the United Hispanic Chamber of Commerce as a Hispanic Business Enterprise (HBE) Elite in 2014 and 2016, as well as the National Minority Supplier Development Council as a Supplier of the Year and for Business Leadership.”

Delco is proudly the largest Hispanic company within the automotive manufacturing supply chain. Its business connection with Ford is a true partnership.

“The Diez Group values the relationship we have built and maintained with Ford,” April said. “we appreciate all the opportunities, and we gratefully thank them for their continued support.”

Dolores Rodriguez And Milagro Packaging How does a

small Dundee, Michigan, packaging company form a prosperous partnership with auto goliath Toyota Motors Corp.? The answer: with some strategic partnerships and steadfast grit.

Milagro Packaging LLC, which provides packaging services and material such as plastic, foam, corrugated, metal and wood, has enjoyed a thriving partnership with Toyota since 2001, when it formed a joint venture with Concept Packaging. The collaboration allowed Milagro Packaging to offer a minority option to Toyota, which enabled the small-cap company to offer more products and services to the auto giant.

30 • January / February 2017

Key to Milagro Packaging’s successful performance as a Toyota supplier has been establishing a close working relationship with the automaker and its associates at all levels of manufacturing and distribution, Milagro Packaging founder Dolores Rodriguez told Latino Leaders Magazine.

“Working across all of the business units of Toyota, suppliers, NAMCs, TMS and TEMA have been an important part of our relationship,” Rodriguez said.

Toyota has been instrumental in helping Milagro Packaging become a better company and supplier by providing guidance and assistance throughout their 16-year relationship, Rodriguez explained.

“Toyota helped us implement the Toyota Production System process throughout our manufacturing and distribution facilities,” Rodriguez said. “National Action Plan of Climate Change (NAPCC) provided hands on assistance when we started our support facility in Ontario.”

Despite all of the company’s successes, Ms. Rodriguez explained that she constantly faces an increasing number of challenges as a small business owner.

“The number of companies that have moved a significant amount of manufacturing off-shore has reduced the opportunity to grow,” she said. “The number of regulations placed on small business by the government create significant additional costs. We are constantly looking to diversify into new products and markets. Selling more services that do not involve a product has helped grow our revenue.”

Without question, Toyota has been a major player in Milagro Packaging’s growth. Also playing a big role in the company’s growth is the United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.

USHCC is America’s largest Hispanic business organization, representing over 4.2 million Hispanic-owned businesses across the United States that together contribute more than $668 billion to the American economy annually.

The organization also serves as the umbrella organization for more than 200 local Hispanic chambers and business associations in the U.S. and Puerto Rico.

For more than three decades, USHCC has been the leading voice for Hispanic business owners in America.

From its inception, USHCC’s mission has been to foster economic growth that creates and sustains prosperity for the benefit of the American people.

“UHSCC has been very helpful in introducing me to other companies so that I can expand our customer base,” Ms. Rodriguez added.

As a pioneering entrepreneur and successful business owner, Ms. Rodriguez is always and aggressively looking for news opportunities and new ways to grow the company’s revenue stream. To be sure, scale and scope are important in today’s hyper-competitive market place.

Helping Milagro Packaging thrive are supplier diversity programs. A supplier diversity program is a proactive business program which encourages the use of minority-owned, women-owned, veteran-owned, LGBT-owned, service disabled veteran-owned, historically underutilized business, and Small Business Administration (SBA)-defined small business concerns as suppliers.

As for what advice this blossoming businesswoman has for other business owner seeking opportunities, Rodriguez stresses the importance of joining a regional supplier diversity council.

“They are instrumental in keeping you informed, and getting your company to new prospective customers,” Rodriguez added. “Make sure and keep your profiles, products and services up to date to ensure that they can provide accurate information to others.”

As a pioneering entrepreneur and successful business owner, Ms. Rodriguez is always and aggressively looking for news opportunities and new ways to grow the company’s revenue stream.

“Our Hispanic Business Enterprises (HBEs) have played a central role in the production of our vehicles. At our truck plant in San Antonio, we have a circle of Hispanic business partners known as The Compadres that supply us with key components for our Tundra and Tacoma pickups. In 2015, we welcomed our first Latina-owned direct supplier, Ms. Rosa Santana from Forma Automotive, to assemble truck beds for our Tacoma - a significant milestone in this maledominated industry.

Within our sales and service operation, Ms. Dolores Rodriguez of Milagro Packaging has provided packaging design and fabrication to our National Parts Center in Kentucky and other points throughout our supply chain.

Together these Latinas are leading the way in changing the automotive landscape.

We are equally grateful to have the support of the Hispanic community as consumers. Toyota has been the top automotive brand for Latinos every year since 2004, and we commit to upholding this trust through vehicles built on safety, quality and reliability.”

Jim Holloway - General Manager, Purchasing Supplier Relations

Special Business Edition CONNECTORS: The Bridge between Latinos and Success

Senator

John McCain Story by: Steven Penhollow

Design by: Carlos Cuevas

In a recent phone interview with Latino Leaders, Arizona Sen. John McCain said it could be argued that the fastest-growing small businesses in the United States are owned by Hispanics.

McCain said there are more than 120,000 Hispanic-owned business in Arizona. Hispanic purchasing power in the state is in excess of $40 billion, he said, and women own more than 54 percent of Hispanic small businesses.

One of the vital components of all this success is trade with Mexico, he said.

“Mexico is Arizona’s number one trade partner,” he said. “Thirty percent of Arizona’s exports. $16.8 billion in total trade with Mexico in 2015.

“111,200 Arizona jobs depend on bilateral trade with Mexico,” he added, “and 65,000 Mexican visitors come here every day to shop and spend.”

In addition to trade, McCain said, there’s the cultural relationship to consider.

“Everything from our cuisine to the celebration of Cinco de Mayo,” he said. “Spanish was spoken in Arizona before English was. Our relationship with Mexico is important, not just economically, but in every other way.”

As Mexico’s economy has improved, McCain said, the number of people coming into the U.S. illegally has dropped to the point that “more people are going back to Mexico than are coming from Mexico into the United States.”

McCain said he is glad that President Donald Trump’s administration seems to have softened its recent rhetoric regarding a proposed 20 percent tax on imports from Mexico to pay for a southern border wall.

“If it happened, you would see severe economic impact on Mexico, which could trigger more illegal 32 • January / February 2017

immigration,” he said. “It would also have a devastating effect on Arizona’s economy. I was pleased to hear the president’s press person say that it is just one of many options. But it is an option that should be rejected.”

On many economic issues, McCain said he agrees with the administration.

“Reduction in taxes, but most important, reduction in regulations that have stifled our economy over the last eight years,” he said. “This is the slowest recovery from a recession since the Great Depression and one of the reasons for that is the incredibly stifling effect of government regulation on business, including small business.”

Reducing taxes and regulations can be of enormous benefit to the Hispanic community and Hispanic-owned businesses, McCain said.

President Trump has indicated that he wants to renegotiate the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). McCain said NAFTA has been proven to be an incredible success, and wholesale changes to it could trigger chaos. “(It hasn’t just been a success) economically,” he said, “But in every conceivable way — closer relations, cultural relations. All I am saying is: If it needs to be made better and both sides agree, fine. But a unilateral action by the United States will devastate the economy of Arizona and the economy of Mexico, triggering all sorts of other problems that will result from that.”

This is a very serious situation, McCain said.

“I traveled to Mexico City with a number of other senators at the time of the ratification of NAFTA,” he said. “I have a long history of being involved. I traveled with Republican and Democratic senators. Anyone who looks at the state of Arizona’s economy, America’s economy and Mexico’s economy then and now — one of the main reasons we have seen such progress is because of free trade, because of NAFTA.” McCain said he hopes that cooler heads will prevail.

The success of Hispanic-owned businesses in Arizona and other Southwestern states provides an example to the rest of the country, the senator said.

“I am incredibly proud of the economic success of our Hispanic citizens and the contributions they have made to Arizona,” he said.

Senator

Jeff Flake Story by: Jason Ogden

A new presidential administration and a new outlook on business and tax regulations could be the key to getting small businesses, both Latino-run and otherwise, off the ground, according to Sen. Jeff Flake, a Republican from Arizona.

Flake told Latino Leaders that he hopes the business regulations will change from what they have been because he believes it would help.

“I would hope that they would benefit from the emphasis on addressing some of the regulatory barriers to economic growth,” Flake said. “I am hoping the Trump administration will continue to where I think they have started to go in getting rid of these barriers.

Flake said changes to the tax code as well as a simplification of the code would be beneficial.

The senator also told Latino Leaders that there were a few things that could be done to help the promotion of Latino businesses, such as helping banks lend more easily to Latinos.

“Access to capital is a tough thing and that is making it difficult for small businesses to grow,” Flake said.

He added that the Dodd-Frank Wall Street reform bill has worked to push a lot of smaller lenders, which are more apt to lend to small businesses, into larger lenders that are not.

At the same time, businesses do not want to get too big because of Affordable Care Act laws, which require a company to provide health care if a business is larger than 50 employees.

Flake said in the future he hoped the regulations would ease.

“Some of the new regulations that were a response to the financial crisis in terms of ratios of capital reserve requirements, I could see those staying,” Flake said. “A lot of those that are intended to look at money laundering and with the border banking.”

But Flake said a lot of the regulations could be rolled back and that most of them are “overkill.”

“I have been talking to bankers saying they could accomplish the same thing with 10 percent of the regulations,” he said. “The overall effort that we’re trying to go through here is to create a conducive tax and regulatory market where the banks will actually go out and look for business, rather than being just concerned with complying with regulation and only doing those loans. (That way it won’t) cause them to be tied up with paperwork.”

Flake said he thinks the market works well when business are not worried and trying to comply with heavily imposed regulations all the time.

“I don’t think we need more government agencies to focus on loans or small business administrations,” he said. “I think we need to lower the regulations.”

Flake recognized that there is some stagnation with growth

among Latino businesses. He said with immigration reform and other governmental factors, there could be a slowing in stamina.

“I tried with another of my colleagues, to put out immigration reform that would give more certainty moving ahead to a lot of individuals who are either working in the shadows or are undocumented — or kids that really aren’t able to use the education they received,” Flake said.

He said he was a supporter of the Bridge Act, which would work to provide more children with permanent status in the U.S. Flake said he also wanted to continue to foster good relationships between the United States and Mexico.

“This talk about sending military troops down or just building a wall, that doesn’t do much for neighborliness and we ought to recognize that trade is not a zero-sum game,” Flake said. “It helps us both, or all of us who are involved in it, and security cooperation can be improved.

But it’s only improved if we actually value the relationship we have trade and otherwise with the neighbors.”

The senator said he grew up in a rural Arizona ranching community and worked alongside migrant labor.

“We benefited significantly from the relationship we had with those who wanted to come and work,” Flake said.

“Many did not have legal status and now do. I have always felt motivation to recognize all the benefits when we have willing workers to take jobs they want to do.”

Special Business Edition MILLION DOLLAR: CLUB INDEX

USHCC has compiled a list of top brands that honor diversity. These

enterprises have given minority groups an opportunity and have paved the way for other companies to do the same. The USHCC firmly believes in the inclusion of businesses owned by women and minorities, in an effort to broaden the economic development.

$1 billion and up category winners:

$100 – $250 million category winners:

•AT&T Services, Inc.

•Bank of America

•Avis Budget Group, Inc.

•CVS Health

•Ford Motor Company

•Delphi

•Toyota Motor North America

•Duke Energy •IBM

$500 million – $1 billion category winners:

•Comcast NBCUniversal •Enterprise Holdings •General Motors •Pacific Gas and Electric •Southern California Edison •United States Postal Service

•JP Morgan Chase •Kaiser Foundation Health Plan Inc. •Lear Corporation •Macy’s •Shell •Sprint •The Coca-Cola Company

$250 – $500 million category winners:

•Walgreens

•Eagle Rock Village Inc.

•Wells Fargo & Company

•Johnson & Johnson $75 – $100 million category winners:

•PepsiCo, Inc. •The Kroger Co •Verizon Communications

34 • January / February 2017

•The Home Depot •UPS

$50 – $75 million:

•American International Group, Inc.

•BP America

•Anthem, Inc.

•Marriott International

•Hilton Worldwide

•Merck & Co., Inc.

•MGM International Resorts

•Microsoft Corporation

•Nokia

•MillerCoors

•SUPERVALU

•Sodexo

•Tarrant

•Target Corporation

•TIAA

•Wyndham Worldwide

•T-Mobile •Tarrant County College

$25 – $50 million:

•American Airlines •American Honda Motor Co., Inc.

•US Bank

Top Latinos in Aviation

Story by: Latino Leaders staff Design by: Luis González

processes that were performed both in Dallas, TX and Wheeling, Ill. Kevin then went into the operations consulting field in 2010 and in 2016 he was hired as the Business Operation Analyst for the Department of Aviation of the City of Dallas. He reports to the Director and does analysis and research for operational projects at the Dallas Love Field Airport. Kevin has a B.A. in Finance from Dallas Baptist University and an MBA from the University of Dallas and is a certified Six Sigma Black Belt.

Kevin served in PTA’s across the district as a leader at chapter and district level. He has been President at all school levels and taught leadership at Local and State level as well. He was elected to serve Mesquite ISD as a School Board Trustee and advocate for public education in 1996. Kevin has served as an officer at all levels of this board. He has testified before House and Senate committees on Nutrition and Education bills and was a member of the Legislative Action Committee for the Texas Association of School Boards (TASB). He has participated in forums on school finance at state level. Kevin has also served at state and national levels as Chairman of the Risk Management Fund Board for TASB and a Director for the National School Boards Association (NSBA). He has also had the opportunity to serve as Chair of the National Hispanic Caucus and as a Director of the National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials (NALEO).

He has been a youth coach and instructor for baseball, soccer, and bowling teams. He serves every Saturday as a coach for youth bowlers and a league member at AMF Garland and Terrell Lanes.

He also is President of the Metro Buzzard Chapter that meets at USA Bowl. He believes in servant leadership and was awarded the President of the United States Volunteer Award in 2012.

Kevin Carbo

Business Operations Analyst Dallas Love Field

B

orn in Brooklyn, NY. Lived his first 4 years there and then moved to Puerto Rico where he attended Colegio San Antonio Catholic School (K through 12) and The University of Puerto Rico. Then, he moved to Tampa, Florida where he began a career in Banking Operations for First Florida Banks. Kevin married his wife Jossie while living in Tampa and this year they celebrate 35 years of marriage. They have two kids; Jessica and Kevin Jr. Both of them graduated from Mesquite High School. Jessica, and husband Dustin, have two boys; Liam and Conner. Kevin, and wife Ashton, have one son; Kevin III. Kevin and Jossie moved to Texas in 1984 where he worked for First City Bank and settled in Mesquite. He also worked for Bank One (which is now Chase Bank) and remained in Operations. Kevin changed industries in 1996 as he took an operations management job for Allstate Insurance. He managed 36 • January / February 2017

Top Latinos in Aviation

A

lejandro Leon serves as the Deputy Commissioner of Design/Construction for the Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA). Leon is responsible for providing leadership and management oversight to a team of skilled professionals for the O’Hare Capital Improvement Program (CIP) and the O’Hare Modernization Program (OMP). The Design/Construction Section consists of several components including project administration, architecture and engineering.

Prior to joining the CDA, Leon had a diversified 18-year career in the construction industry. His management track record demonstrates his skill set as a decision-maker focusing on efficiency, productivity, systems improvements and major business development strategies.

Leon’s career accomplishments include construction management/owner’s representative consultant experience for the CDA, Chicago Public Schools, Chicago Transit Authority and the University of Chicago. He also has extensive project management experience in horizontal and vertical construction projects; design/build projects; renovation and construction of commercial, retail/office, and commercial/office tenant improvement projects.

Leon holds a Master’s Degree of Business Administration from National Louis University (Chicago), and a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from the University of Illinois UrbanaChampaign.

Raymond Esquivel Airport Operations Manager McCarran International Airport

R

ay is the Airport Operations Manager. He is responsible for the safe and efficient daily operation of aircraft throughout MIA’s runways, taxiways and ramp areas.

He also manages the full spectrum of daily Airport Operations and Maintenance which includes the escort function, security, construction, emergency response, and the administration of FAA directed safety programs. He has more than 30 years of experience in USAF and Airport operations management principles, practices, and operations activities. Extensive knowledge of aviation rules and regulations, Airport maintenance, airfield constructions, and security operations.

He has an extensive set of awards and achievements. His 110-person team has successfully supported a $65 million runway project and achieved project schedule goals-featured in Airport Improvement Magazine. His Airfield Maintenance team hosted the 2013 Airport Marking Symposium, a 3-day workshop covering the best practices related to airfield markings presented by Sightline. He has been p He considers Corona, CA home. A father of 3 and lover of golf, movies and reading. He has an Associates degree from Community College of the Air Force and a Bachelors from Peru State in Nebraska. Ray is very much involved in his community and helps out through organizations like United Way and Boys & Girls Club.

Alejandro Leon Deputy Commissioner of Design/Construction Chicago Department of Aviation

Top Latinos in Aviation

Doug Izarra Vice President- Americas Sales GE Aviation

D

oug is GE Aviation’s Vice-President for The Americas Sales. In this role he is responsible for new engine and systems sales as well as long-term services solutions for North and South America airline customers.

Doug brings over 35 years of aviation sales experience, a strong record of accomplishments and outstanding relationships with industry leaders.

Doug joined GE International in 1980, as field sales engineer. His primary focus was in the energy and oil and gas market. In 1985, Doug transferred to the U.S. and joined GE Aviation as sales manager based in Evendale, Ohio, responsible for 38 • January / February 2017

new engine sales in the Andean region of South America.

Later he was transferred to Paris, France, as CFM sales director for Southern Europe leading successful key sales campaigns for the joint venture.

Prior to assuming his current role, Doug was general manager for Latin America & Caribbean winning key sales campaigns in Brazil, Colombia, Mexico and Chile, while significantly increasing GE Aviation’s presence and market share and driving growth into new product lines.

Doug’s current region is the largest aviation market in the world, it combines a mature, well-developed U.S. and Canada market plus an emerging, high growth market in Latin America & Caribbean. The Americas is the home for 36% of worldwide aircraft fleet. GE and CFM market share is 61% in the Americas today and market share of the backlog is over 65%.

Doug led his Americas team in record sales between 2010 and 2016, and set a new record in 2013 selling over 2,000 GE and CFM International engines that year alone (CFM: a GE-Safran joint venture company). His team has booked total sales in last seven years of nearly 8,300 new engines plus a backlog of long-term maintenance service contracts worth over $ 37 billion (USD). The Chairman awarded him the Heroes of Growth Award in 2014. Doug Izarra is an active member of Wings Club, ISTAT and is currently a member of the Board of Trustees of Vaughn College of Aeronautics and Technology in New York City.

GE Aviation, an operating unit of General Electric Company (NYSE:GE), is a world-leading provider of jet engines, components, and integrated systems for commercial and military aircraft. GE Aviation also has a global service network to support these offerings.

In the midst of the effervescence of the new administration and its initial actions, we wanted to ask

the top Latino leaders of the Nation their position on the new government, how were they coping with the Trump administration and what they were planning to do about it, in order to keep advancing their own goals and missions.

These are some of the top leaders from leading organizations that represent thousands. Added together, they make millions as a good part of the Hispanic community of the United States. It is a very impressive list, thoughtful leaders, some of the brightest minds and best advocates for Latinos.

The main question was: “How are you trying or working with the new Government?” What challenges or advantages for your organization or the Latino community do you see with the new administration?”

ON TRUMP Story by: Latino Leaders staff

“…you’re going to have to find people that are going to bring you the solutions and that’s where we’re looking and that’s what we bring to the table. Solutions. How are we going to make this work?”

“Let’s help these young Dreamers that are here, who are going through college, getting their Masters, their Doctors, working as nurses. Let’s get them situated where they can be productive members of the community. We should not declare war on those dreamers that are here. We need to give them an opportunity.”

“We are not in it for the glory. We’re in it to help the community. That’s what LULAC does.

That’s what LULAC has been doing for 88 years.”

ROGER ROCHA President of LULAC

“I DO WANT TO REASSURE THE COMMUNITY THAT LULAC IS GOING TO BE DOING WHAT WE’VE BEEN DOING FOR 88 YEARS AND THAT’S LOOKING OUT FOR THE LATINO COMMUNITY. WE ARE THERE.” 40 • January / February 2017

The answers and comments are very interesting. But at the same time they leave the door open for the next big question: “Is there a common strategy? Is there a call-to-action for specific results? Are they each planning to keep doing their work from their different position or come together with a unified position?”

The following quotes and comments were extracted from larger interviews we received and reflect the organization’s leader point of view and character.

CEO ALPFA

“…we expect to have senior ALPFA leaders working in the Trump Administration.”

“We don’t need anything from President Trump. I would ask him not to deport as many Latinos as President Obama.

I would make sure he knows that Mexico is our #2 trading partner in the world and not to screw that up. I would tell him to control the export of American guns and weapons to Mexico that is fueling much of the violence there.”

Challenges? “…trying to get as many qualified Latinos to serve in good paying jobs in the government, across all agencies.” “…we are very concerned about the fact that President Donald Trump has created an environment that is counterproductive to Hispanic inclusion in Corporate America.”

“WE BELIEVE THAT, GIVEN TRUMP’S RHETORIC, CORPORATE AMERICA NEEDS TO ELEVATE, REINFORCE, AND STRENGTHEN ITS DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION PRACTICES.” “It is our responsibility to communicate with Corporate America to get the assurance that any new hiring announcements are consistent with their diversity and inclusion initiatives.”

I WOULD ASK TRUMP…

“We would remind President Trump that the U.S. economy cannot succeed without the estimated $1.5 trillion economic buying power of the Latino consumer, and the over $600 billion in revenue generated by Hispanic-owned businesses.”

“His campaign message that one can be unqualified for a job because of their Mexican-American heritage (i.e. Judge Curiel) is unacceptable…”

“His divisive messages and his actions have promoted a heightened racial divide. These issues not only impact the Hispanic community, but also the companies who employ us.”

“…HACR is committed to helping those companies who are ready to pledge to diversity and Hispanic inclusion.”

CHALLENGES?

“President Trump has proven to be unpredictable, erratic, and untrustworthy. His message has not been friendly or positive to the Latino community.”

“These companies who are engaging with the Trump administration cannot compromise their diversity and inclusion strategies, and they certainly cannot look at the Trump administration as a model for their diversity practices.”

ADVANTAGES?

“Given that these departments have alliances with Corporate America, HACR is well-positioned to advance our mission of Hispanic inclusion in Corporate America by collaborating on key initiatives that are consistent with our mission.”

CID WILSON CEO of HACR latinoleaders.com

L AT INO LE A DE R S

CHARLIE GARCIA

I would ask Trump…

Challenges?

L AT INO LE A DE R S

“We want to encourage and educate these women as well as create more like them to start the small and mediumsized businesses today that become the large corporations of tomorrow.”

“WE WANT MORE PEOPLE TO UNDERSTAND THAT WOMEN HAVE SOME OF THE STRONGEST ENTREPRENEURIAL DRIVE ANYWHERE.” Advantages?

“The President has made jobs one of his top priorities. Small businesses employ nearly two out of three Americans and make up more than 99 percent of all American companies. These are the firms that will drive job growth in this country.”

I would ask Trump…

“We want effective and consistent governance, low taxes, reduced regulation, a robust economy, and free and fair trade with other countries. In that spirit, we seek alignment with this new administration and every administration to help realize those goals through effective policy proposals.”

NINA VACA Chair Emeritus USHCC Foundation

“…we want to push new ways to give Hispanic businesses better and easier access to capital and financial education.”

“Additionally, as a Presidential Ambassador of Global Entrepreneurship, I hope to work personally with the administration to continue to develop the next generation of entrepreneurs.”

42 • January / February 2017

“More specifically, small businesses need capital and education to grow. We benefit from policies that facilitate a more robust lending market – whether through the SBA or otherwise. We also benefit from educational programs that provide entrepreneurs with critical knowledge in key areas. And lastly, we benefit from being granted equal opportunities to submit competitive proposals on government contracts.”

“But if existing and aspiring business owners have greater access to the capital they need to grow, then we as a country benefit from a broader pool of more effective and diverse entrepreneurs. The resulting jobs and opportunities then produce a multiplier effect throughout our economy and in the Hispanic community specifically.”

“We will continue to meet America’s priorities in the classroom, community, and workforce to move our great nation forward under the incoming president or anyone else that holds the position.”

JANET MURGUIA President of NCLR

“WE ARE FOCUSED ON PROTECTING AND DEFENDING THE LATINO COMMUNITY.” Challenges?

“Immigration. ACA. Consumer Protection. Voting Rights.“

I would ask Trump…

“We have long called out candidate Trump on the divisive and polarizing rhetoric he used repeatedly on the campaign trail and his complete failure to engage with our community. The same holds true for President Trump.”

ANTONIO TIJERINO President Hispanic Heritage Foundation

“We cannot go back. We must move forward.”

“We are not just 25% of the kids that are in public school today. We are 50% of the growing workforce of the future and that’s an important statistic.”

“…WE HAVE TO PREPARE OUR COMMUNITY TO LEAD IN WAYS THAT WE HAVEN’T BEEN GIVEN THE OPPORTUNITY FOR IN THE PAST. THAT’S THE ONLY WAY WE’RE GOING TO CONTINUE TO EVOLVE INTO A GREATER COUNTRY.”

IGNACIO SALAZAR President SER Jobs

L AT INO LE A DE R S

“Our work at the Hispanic Heritage Foundation just got more important as we continue to present a value proposition… “

L AT INO LE A DE R S

HECTOR BARRETO Chairman of The Latino Coalition

“...the 3 things that were interested in are the issues that are more important to the Hispanic community.

1) economic issues. 2) what is a suitable replacement for Obamacare 3) immigration reform”

MARIA TERESA KUMAR Executive Director Voto Latino

“I think that it’s not by chance that the administration has not appointed a one single Latino to his cabinet. That’s the very first time in the last 20-30 years we are not going to have a Latino in a cabinet position.”

“…we have to make sure that we are delicate and paying attention.” “…it’s important to ensure that we are clear on what we expect from him as a president and that is that they are fair to all Americans and they consider us as such.”

“IT’S SHOCKING TO BELIEVE THAT HE WAS ABLE TO GET AS FAR AS HE WAS BECAUSE THERE WAS NOT A CORPORATION, THERE WAS NOT A BAND OF ALLIES THAT STOOD UP FOR US THAT HE WAS AFRAID OF. AND THAT JUST TELLS ME THAT 1) WE’RE INCREDIBLY TOLERANT OF WHEN PEOPLE ABUSE US VERBALLY AND; 2) WE’RE INCREDIBLY TOLERANT OF FOLKS THAT TAKE FOR GRANTED OUR HARD WORK.” 44 • January / February 2017

“The challenge for the administration is going to be to reach out, to not take this community for granted, to base the relationship on respect and common goals.”

“We will be ready to stand toe-to-toe whenever its necessary.”

“Accountability is our number #1 priority.”

“ACTIVISM IS GREAT. BUT, BEYOND ACTIVISM, WE GOT TO GET MORE INVOLVED. AND THE WAY WE GET MORE INVOLVED IS BECOMING PART OF THE PROCESS.” “Some of the hardest workers that you are able to find are amongst those groups of people which he continuously to demonizes.”

ANTONIO MOLINA President of the Latino Caucus

Advantages?

“The greatest advantage is our membership. As Dina Powell, Trump Senior Economic Advisor, said: ‘No other organization in America matches the USHCC’s reach and influence in the Hispanic community.’ A recent Nielsen study called the Hispanic market ‘the most influential segment since the baby boomers’ because it represents 1.5 trillion in consumer buying power.

More than that, Hispanics have one of the strongest entrepreneurial spirits of any group in the country.

From 2007 to 2012, the number of businesses created by Hispanics grew almost 50% percent. … Like I mentioned before, we serve 4.2 million Latino-owned businesses that collectively contribute $669 billion to the national economy every year.”

I would ask Trump…

“…a chance to state our case and they have surprisingly open to that. We have a mutual goal of doing what is best for the American business community.”

JAVIER PALOMAREZ President of the USHCC

“…I think it’s important that American small business has a voice in any administration. There were many ideas and language used during the campaign that we can’t support. But the election is over. So it is important for us as an organization to find the ideas we could support while fighting to change what we feel is necessary.”

“We want to continue to advise President Trump and any of his administration on the importance of these businesses and the Hispanic community to the American economy and society.”

“...as I recently told Stephen Mnuchin, the new Secretary of the Treasury, we do agree on lower corporate taxes and fair regulation as stimuli to business growth. It’s time to for us to find the areas we agree instead of focusing on the areas where we don’t.” “…we are a dynamic, hard-working and industrious community filled with people who want the American Dream just like everyone else.”

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L AT INO LE A DE R S

Challenges?

“I WOULDN’T CALL THEM CHALLENGES SO MUCH AS I CALL THEM OPPORTUNITIES.” “YOU CAN’T CHANGE THE GAME FROM THE SIDELINES- YOU HAVE TO BE IN THE GAME.” “IT’S IMPOSSIBLE TO EDUCATE WHEN YOU ISOLATE”

L AT INO LE A DE R S

“…70% of all new jobs created, have been created at that level. That’s where the Latinos are particular playing and that’s where they’re driving our domestic economy.”

“Latinos are synonymous to entrepreneurship.

It’s in the DNA of the entrepreneurs in the United States.”

SOL TRUJILLO Chairman Latino Donor Collaborative

46 • January / February 2017

“This country will not be able to successfully compete without the supply of labor and the variety of skills that are available with the Latino workers.”

“Our country will be dramatically better off competitively speaking, growth-wise, etc., if the Latino is growing, robust and is continuing to do what it is already doing.”

L AT INO LE A DE R S

TOM SOTO Chairman of the New America Alliance

“…we fully expect them to embrace the demands and the needs, as well as the contributions and the ideas that the Latino entrepreneur and members of the NAA…”

Challenges?

1- “Access to quality education.”

2- “Access to tax dollars and distributions for urban infrastructure and environmental justice.”

3- “Access to policies that will help to embrace the values of what immigrants contribute and making sure we have a fair immigration policy that is being considered by this administration. Especially the Dreamers, who are already here…”

CARLOS TORTOLERO President National Museum of Mexican Art in Chicago

“Speaking as Carlos Tortolero, I think the first thing Trump needs to do is to apologize not only to Mexicans, but to all the groups and individuals that he offended with his comments. I don’t see that happening. I also believe that the concept of “working with Trump” is the ultimate oxymoron.

Trump doesn’t work with anyone.

It’s his way or the highway.”

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L AT INO LE A DE R S

HENRY CISNEROS Former Secretary of HUD and Former Mayor of San Antonio

“…another approach is to stand up for our concerns and then be willing to take them on when they hurt our interests.”

“It requires being very certain about what we believe to be important. And requires being very sure and solid in terms of holding our ground and not being drawn in…”

“Already I think the signs are very very dangerous for the community. For the first time, since 1988 there is no Latino in the cabinet which is a setback for us.” “…that’s very important. To have someone there that can interpret our community for the President.”

Challenges?

“…but it is very important for the largest minority group in the country and the fastest growing minority group in the country to have representation at the Cabinet table. That the President hears from someone who brings a Latino point of view, who reminds the Administration that 100 million+ people by 2040 will be Latinos in the United States.”

48 • January / February 2017

Advantages?

“Perhaps one advantage is that I personally approach this with good will. I recognize the power of the President and what that can mean for our community…” “…I like to believe that it is an advantage to be able to speak the truth.” “…we’re out to be helpful.”

“…WITH SUCCESS FOR THE PRESIDENT, COMES SUCCESS FOR THE NATION AND WHEN THAT HAPPENS, THERE’S SUCCESS FOR LATINOS, AS WELL.”

I would ask Trump…

“I would ask him to lower the decibels on demonizing people of Hispanic heritage but especially, Mexicans.

We do need border security. That’s clear. But we also need to figure out a way to address the legal status of the 12 million who are here.”

“Beyond that, I would ask for recognition that when a population is 55 million people and growing towards 100 million people, and already the largest minority in the country, it’s in America’s interest to help this community become part of the middle-class. To help this community become part of the small business ownership of this nation. To help this community advance in education and entrepreneurship, in income and in wealth and ownership. Become homeowners. Become business owners. And that when we do those things we really are helping the country in a major way.”

“I think the #1 issue for our community…is education. We need to perform better, beginning in pre-school. Lower the drop out rate.

Improve the performance levels. That would be the issue that I would say is the one that shapes the Latino future and the American future.”

ANTONIO FLORES

“One of our biggest priorities is ensuring that the many hard-working Latinos who want to put their skills and talents to work on behalf of the nation are able to do so in the next Administration. This is even more important given that there will not be a single Latino voice or perspective in the White House Cabinet Room for the first time in nearly 30 years.”

“THERE IS NO SHORTAGE OF TALENT AMONG THE DEEP BENCH OF LATINO QUALIFIED CANDIDATES IN THIS COUNTRY, AND A TRUMP ADMINISTRATION WILL NEED TO ENSURE THESE INDIVIDUALS ARE ABLE TO PUT THEIR SKILLS TO WORK FOR THE GOOD OF THE NATION IF WE WANT TO MOVE AMERICA FORWARD IN THE COMING FOUR YEARS.” “We oppose the construction of a border wall on the basis of NALEO’s principles, and will continue to work toward real and meaningful immigration reform that promotes public safety and acknowledges the significant contributions immigrants make to this nation.”

“The persistent undercount of the nation’s second largest population group is a civil rights issue in this country. Unless we bring Latinos out of the shadows and into the light in the 2020 Census, the Latino community will continue to have disproportionate access to fair political representation and public services.”

President HACU

“HACU IS COMMITTED TO WORKING WITH EVERY FEDERAL ADMINISTRATION TO CHAMPION HISPANIC SUCCESS IN HIGHER EDUCATION. OUR MISSION AND PRIORITIES REMAIN CLEAR AND COMPELLING FOR THE ADVANCEMENT OF LATINOS AND THEIR IMPORTANT CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE NATION’S PROSPERITY AND EQUALITY.” “…I’m hopeful that the Trump Administration will support HACU’s advocacy efforts to enhance federal support for HispanicServing Institutions (HSIs) and emerging HSIs to more effectively meet the workforce and diversity needs of the country.”

CHALLENGES? “As the overwhelming majority of the Latinos are educated by public schools and public and nonprofit colleges and universities, this would be troublesome and counterproductive for the nation.”

ADVANTAGES? “Demographically, the nation is becoming increasingly diverse and particularly Hispanic.”

“These emerging generations of Hispanic youth are the foundation of America’s labor force.”

I WOULD ASK TRUMP? “…level the playing field for HSIs and emerging HSIs with respect to federal funding;” “…include HSIs and Hispanics in all federally funded higher education programs that already provide funding for other Minority-Serving Institutions and minority students but exclude HSIs and Hispanics.” “…enhance student financial aid programs, particularly Pell Grants…” “…close the wide gap in Hispanic representation in the federal workforce...”

ARTURO VARGAS President of NALEO

“…preserve the DACA provisions until the DREAM Act is passed…” latinoleaders.com

L AT INO LE A DE R S

“While we may not agree on every policy position or proposal over the next four years, especially as it relates to immigration, we will seek areas of common ground that can be forged with the President that will allow us to work together to move the Latino community and nation forward.”

Making Waves in Silicon Valley

Story by: Chriss Swaney Design by: Luis Gonzรกlez

Silicon Valley is the target as Latino leaders work to break the job barrier in the high-tech sector dominated by Ivy League whiz kids and wealthy angel investors.

50 โ ข January / February 2017

THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS

recent power lunch hosted by Latino Magazine Publisher Jorge Ferraez, Tony Lopez of Mass Mutual Financial Group in Palo Alto, Calif., and Frank Carbajal of Es Tiempo, was designed to discuss the challenges and solutions for getting more Latinos involved in the hightech gold rush so endemic to Silicon Valley. More than 20 Latino leaders from a variety of industry sectors attended the roundtable session dubbed “How to Create Wealth in the Latino Community.”

In Silicon Valley tech companies, Latinos comprise a distinct minority, making up just 6 percent of employees versus 22 percent of employment in non-tech firms. Even more striking, Latinos are rare in the ranks of tech entrepreneurs and investors.

Less than 1 percent of ventures backed startups with Latino founders, according to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.

Power lunch participants agreed that Latinos must make themselves heard. And they must begin talking about their skills and accolades outside of the Hispanic community to garner attention and important networking contacts. Latinos also must encourage their children to major in STEM-related academic courses.

But the most important mantra in the effort to build Latino success in business and Silicon Valley remains wealth creation, according to the power lunch attendees.

Jerry Porras, a professor emeritus at Stanford University’s Graduate School of Business and chair of the Stanford Latino Entrepreneurship Initiative, told luncheon participants about a recent survey that found 70 percent of Latino business owners who report difficulty in accessing capital.

In fact, research by Porras shows that traditional sources of funding – such as venture capital, angel investment, debt financing or business bank loans – are almost totally absent from Latino startup activity. Only 6.1 percent of Latino businesses sought commercial loans, while 2.4 percent investigated use of government loans to boost business development.

Through Stanford’s Latino Entrepreneurship Initiative and the Latino Business Action Network, Porras has kept important tabs on Latino business activity. For example, of the 3.3 million Latino-operated businesses in the U.S., 90 percent are family-owned, employ seven to eight people and generate annual sales of $155,806.

“We need to help make those companies grow and get bigger,’’ said Porras. “If all Latino businesses averaged sales over $155,000, more than $1.38 trillion would be added to the U.S. economy,’’ according to research by Porras.

To that end, luncheon participants pointed out the need to develop more mentoring and sponsorship opportunities for emerging entrepreneurs.

Lopez, a sales manager at Mass Mutual Financial Group and son of a famous California jockey and horse trainer, said it takes three to four years for a board member to feel comfortable before he or she can help others. And at present, the majority of C-suites are filled with insiders with extensive company experience. Only 3.2 percent of all directors and 2.9 percent of all executives were of Hispanic origin, a government survey of 219 Fortune 500 companies found.

“We need to learn how to tell our stories in a way that is both engaging and instructional,’’ said Lopez.

All attendees also agreed that Latinos are “self-doubters’’ and that everyone needs to exhibit more confidence in the workplace and talk more about entrepreneurial success.

The raw material is certainly there. Between 2007 and 2012, the latest data available, studies show Latino-owned businesses grew 46.9 percent, compared with 0.7 percent for non-Latino businesses. And of all small business growth between the same years, the data show 87 percent of that growth came solely from Latino-owned businesses.

“There would simply be scant small business growth in this country without the Latino business startups,’’ said Porras. “We need investment to create new and bigger opportunities for Latino startups — and for all of our budding innovators.”

DAVID AGUILAR, CONSULT OUR SOURCE; CARLOS DIEGO, CONSULT OUR SOURCE

ILEANA RIVERA, CISCO SYSTEM; SOFIA KECK, HISPANIC IT EXECUTIVE COUNCIL

LUCAS FADA, HP TECH VENTURES

ATLANTA LEADERS

CHALLENGED TO DEFINE FUTURE OF THE “NEW LATINO IDENTITY” Story by: John Tabeilone

L

atino Leaders Publisher Jorge Ferraez recently invited Atlanta’s influential “I enjoy developing mutually meaningful relationships with a focus on the Latino Latino corporate executives, professionals and elected officials to discuss community. One of my passions is to support immigrant entrepreneurs who come strategies for fostering advancement of the Hispanic community and the to the United States with the same dream I had - to start a business while making challenge of leveraging future leaders who could create wealth and jobs. a positive difference in the communities where I live and work. As a Financial Sponsored by Coca-Cola and Northwestern Mutual Goodwin, Wright and Representative, I am proud to be affiliated with Northwestern Mutual---recognized hosted by Coke executive Humberto Garcia–Sjogrim, the meeting drew 30 among the 2016 Best Companies for Latinos. I am inspired everyday by the drive attendees who addressed the “New Latino Identity.” and passion of Atlanta’s Latino community and the clients I serve.

John Wright, Managing Partner of Northwestern Mutual Goodwin, Wright said, -Juan Diego Ramirez, Financial Representative, Northwestern Mutual Goodwin, Wright “Meeting new people who encourage you to view and live life differently inspires me.

The opportunity to collaborate and connect with people from different cultures, backgrounds and industries is rewarding and brings value to my generation and generations to follow. Our The group suggested better educational opportunities, access mission is to help protect and grow wealth of business owners, individuals and families by demonstrating to capital, the necessity to address public policies, and, greater the value and impact of integrated, comprehensive financial planning. Northwestern Mutual Goodwin, financial literacy access.

Wright is honored to be among a distinguished group of leaders who are helping to elevate the converLa Kerri Jackson of UPS addressed how small entities can consation and challenge one another to take action by identifying key goals and increasing collaboration.” duct business with corporations: “We have a supplier diversity Ferraez spurred the conversation, stating, “It’s very seldom that we can have the opportu- program. We want to work more with small business owners.” nity to gather a small group of leaders in the community and discuss important issues that later UPS sends representatives to conferences and panels to procan be translated into initiatives, ideas … or, why not start a new project, or the genesis of mote this program. Other companies that have joined to explore something new that will happen in the future; or, just a good night of reflection and friendship. advancement in these areas are Delta, AT&T and Home Depot.

Our objective is to listen to voices like yours.”

DeKalb State Court Judge Dax Lopez offered a different perHe added, “What are the most important things for you to advance yourself in the Latino spective: post-graduate work. “We need to promote individucommunity? One of those is education importance and the other is wealth creation.” als going into professional areas, accountants, doctors, lawyers.

Consensus from the first exchanges dictated collaboration; the larger question lies in the details. While we represent 10 percent of the population in Georgia, we The audience concurred that Latinos are entrepreneurial by nature, but need support and guidance. are underrepresented at less than 1 percent when it comes to the “Unfortunately,” said Gigi Pedraza, “90 percent are sole proprietorships.” legal, medical or business professions,” he said.

Ferraez agreed: “We need to scale up to become million or billion dollar sales companies with asSince many don’t see themselves as Latinos but identify as Colombisets. So, how do we go to this upper level to be more expansive?” ans, Peruvians, Ecuadorians, or other nationalities, Gerson Vasquez of Wright, said, “I would just think about the ‘power of one.’ Find the one entrepreneur who the U.S. Census Bureau makes clear that, “We are a force in this country has created ‘scale.’ That individual has to be altruistic, generous, and wants to give back. That and we are not slowing down. We need to find unity. We need to find individual can affect an enormous amount of people in the Latino community.” something that brings us together. Find those success stories, but emHe continued: “If leaders step up, we will have the support needed to realize the vision phasize that, as part of that success story, that it’s a Latino success story.” we’re talking about.”

Leona Barr-Davenport, President and CEO of the Atlanta BusiFerraez concurred, saying, “Sometimes it’s said we Latinos don’t help each other. What did it ness League, argued stories need to be told repeatedly in churchtake you (State Representative Brenda Lopez) to become the first Latina elected to the Georgia es and schools. “You need to write it; you need to say it; you need General Assembly?” to share it,” she said.

Lopez’s response: “People willing to help you put in the work and basically give up their time …

Alejandro Cross, President of the Georgia Latin American Chamber most of the money raised was smaller donations. I expected the support of the Latino community.” of Commerce, pointed out nine of 10 Hispanic businesses never reShe thanked everyone and encouraged Latino leaders to attend career days at school to impart ceived financing, yet those entrepreneurs achieved their objectives. As knowledge and experiences. the connection to Latin America diminishes for the next “Americanized” “We had a great candidate, first and foremost,” interjected Garcia–Sjogrim. “The question is, how generation, will they take it to the next level? Given that scenario, Garcia– do we bring more of those ingredients together in other places?”

Sjogrim suggested collaborative partnerships to increase confidence and a long-term perspective of creating wealth.

Ferraez will issue the list of participants because “when leaders SPONSORED BY connect … intelligence, is created; wealth, leadership is created.”

He added, “Leadership is like life. You cannot stop it.”

52 • January / February 2017

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L AT INO LE A DE R S

Design by: Carlos Cuevas

L AT I N O LE A D E R S

in High Tech

Alejandra Louden: FDIC’s Financial Institution Examiner Share with us your background, education and initial career positions.

I am originally from Mexico City, Mexico. At nine years old, I moved to Pennsylvania for my parents to pursue a Ph.D. Growing up in an academic environment, I learned early on the importance of education and training. I graduated with a B.S. in International Business from Grove City College in Grove City, PA. I worked in banking, residential lending, and public policy in both in the private and public sector, focusing on minority homeownership as I progressed in my career. I decided to go back to school and obtained an MBA from the George Washington University in Washington D.C. in 2007.

When and why did you join the FDIC? What has the experience been like?

I began my career with the FDIC in 2009 in the heart of the great recession, shortly after graduation. While completing my MBA, I had the opportunity to be part of a fellowship program through a non-profit organization focusing on exposing Latino students to public policy and gaining hands-on experience. I was working in Freddie Mac’s government relations department at the time the organization was placed into receivership. Due to the regulatory restructure, I was advised to pursue an assignment at the FDIC that aligned with my interests. My experience at FDIC allowed me to get a taste of the Corporation’s mission, and motivated me to pursue a full time opportunity. I was attracted to the FDIC’s mission to promote stability and public confidence while protecting consumers’ rights. In addition, given the financial crisis, the Agency’s challenge of supervising problem institutions and protecting consumers’ deposits was just beginning.

FDIC is a learning organization that focuses on providing extensive training and development opportunities to all employees regardless of tenure. Completing a comprehensive training program and earning my commission prepared me for a rewarding and challenging career. As a bank examiner, I have been a part of and lead teams, learning from others’ expertise along the way. As if bank examination was not dynamic enough, the FDIC also offers rotational programs to work in 54 • January / February 2017

other divisions of the Corporation. Most recently, volunteering for a teaching ancillary duty led to an extended assignment as an instructor, training other examiners.

What are your most important work and professional values?

Having a strong work ethic is always important to succeed, regardless of what one is working on. Embrace change and be adaptable. Be a team player by creating strong working relationships. Be accountable to yourself and others. Be motivated to continuously learn.

What is a typical day at the FDIC like, and what aspects of your profession do you enjoy the most?

A “typical” day at the FDIC is very different and our assignments change from month to month. The size and complexity of the institutions we supervise varies greatly and we must keep up with industry changes to adequately assess banking practices. As analysts who evaluate financial institutions, our day to day ranges from holding banker conferences, leading examination teams, training less experienced examiners, and meeting with executive officers and the Board of Directors to discuss examination findings.

In addition to the challenging work, I enjoy the camaraderie of the people that we work with and relationships built. Working in teams lends itself to a supporting environment to complete the examinations.

What is the most important piece of advice that was passed on to you? And what is your advice to a future FDIC leader?

One important piece of advice once given to me is to not limit myself with complacency. Encourage and challenge yourself to pursue new roles or job opportunities that may take you out of your comfort zone. Always stretch yourself and continue to grow; reach out to others you admire and discuss their career path. Most importantly, find a mentor that will support you and give you sound advice and guidance.

One important piece of advice once given to me is to not limit myself with complacency. Encourage and challenge yourself to pursue new roles or job opportunities that may take you out of your comfort zone.

L AT I N O LE A D E R S

in

High Tech

JORDI BOTIFOLL TRANSFORMING TELECOMMUNICATION How did you come to work for Cisco?

I joined the company in 1999 having been a former customer.

As an electrical engineer, I have always been passionate about technology and its ability to transform people’s lives as well as the communities and countriesin which they live and work. At Cisco, I have found fertile ground to promote the use of technology for this higher purpose.

You now lead Cisco’s efforts in 45 countries and territories; what has been the key for Cisco’s performance in LatAm? One thing that sets us apart is our focus on digital technologies. They are the key to how countries can increase global competitiveness, contribute to GDP growth, foster innovation and create more jobs.

Our Digitization Framework allows for countries, cities and businesses to see how they can transform everyday operations. We are also making Latin American cities more livable, working with local governments to gain efficiencies, increase competitiveness and social inclusion. Urban digitization brings increased connectivity and smarter services through better transportation, public safety, citizen mobility, education and more. Our work in Uruguay with Plan Ceibal and in Colombia with SENA are both examples of how digitization is improving access to education. In Mexico, Conectado connects the unconnected and enables country mobility.

What are the key elements to lead transformation in these markets and the Tech industry as a whole?

We are living in an era where technology connects everything. As leaders, we need to be fully aware of this complex, ever-changing landscape.

We must help our customers and partners adapt to market transitions and realize growth opportunities.

How has digitization impacted leadership and the way organizations/teams work?

Resources like video and TelePresence bring leaders to the desk of every employee. The process of sharing ideas and making decisions has become faster and more meaningful.

A leader needs to empower people with the right digital skills, updated processes, and an adaptive culture that will position their business for success.

What was given to you in terms of advice or mentorship that pushed you to where you are today?

I have always put great effort into, not only what I do, but also in making sure that the people I work with are performing at their best—delivering results and feeling proud about the contributions they are making.

Now that you have made it, what advice can you give to the upcoming generation?

Read, ask questions, collaborate, and think about different ways to do things.

Education is the most powerful resource people can use to create, develop and

improve not only their careers but their lives. The Internet provides access to unlimited sources of information on any and all topics. Take advantage of it!

What steps do we need to take to address the Hispanic Technology pipeline shortage, and what role do programs like the Cisco Networking Academy play?

We need to understand the gap and work together to close it. Cisco is committed to helping students in Latin America gain the skills they need to thrive in a connected world. In just the last 12 months, over 200,000 students went through the Cisco Networking Academy.

Since its inception in Latin America, we’ve educated more than 1 million students. We aim to empower them so we can help create a new generation of problem solvers.

Which is your main strategy to ensure customer success and long-term relationships with your clients?

We strive to put their needs first in everything we do. And we’re here for our customers over the long term. This means listening and understanding their business challenges—and making a commitment to their success.

Cisco LatAm recently got the 1st place from the Great Place To Work organization (all countries in Latam, all industries) - why is it important to establish a multi-cultural leadership and diversity strategy? What do corporations such as Cisco gain from an inclusive culture?

This recognition is a reflection of how our Latin American employees feel about their ability to contribute to the digital transformation taking place all around them. They all have a very active part in our company vision, strategy and execution to connect everything and benefit everyone. At Cisco, we’re committed to creating an environment of empowerment, development and recognition – where all employees can thrive. All this is clearly good for Cisco’s business, with high levels of employee and customer satisfaction.

What are your most important work and professional values?

Integrity – always do the right thing, no matter what; Passion – love what you do and do it the best you can; and Adaptability – be prepared to react quickly in a rapidly changing environment.

How do you see the challenges ahead for your company and in the industry?

The world of technology is moving faster than ever. A digital organization will require new leadership skills, combined with connecting people, processes, data, and things. Through digitization, companies and governments can provide services that meet the evolving expectations of their people and businesses. Customers need to adopt new products and services that will enable the network to be an integral part of their strategy What is the philosophy you lead your teams with?

Be passionate and proud of what you do, work hard, think as “we,” always do the right thing, and always put the customer first.

latinoleaders.com

LATINO LEADERS @JFerraez_Latino

THE SHAFER MAGNIFICENT TRIO!

O

NCE UPON A TIME, there was this great businessman from Chicago who decided to put all his assets and work into a winery in Napa.

He had a talented son and a talented worker, who became friends and joined the man at the winery to produce wine. With time, a lot of work and talent, effort, bad and good times and passion for wine, they were able to spend their next 30 years working together to become one of the best wineries in California: Shafer.

This is a real story and is the story of John Shafer, his son Doug, and Elias Fernandez the winemaker of Shafer Vineyards.

Says Doug Shafer, president of Shafer Vineyards: “There’s a million little details in a bottle of wine, but this has been our passion for more than 30 years. Our goal, more than to grow (just under 30,000 cases annually) has been to achieve quality and keep it!”

Indeed, it is a work of art and science to work along with Mother Nature and make wine. Elias Fernandez, one of the few and earliest Latinos to become a winemaker, was literally raised among vines while his parents worked the vineyards.

He is now the winemaker at Shafer, and adds: “John Sr. (Doug’s dad) has allowed us to make mistakes, experiment, learn, get some good and some bad results.

That has taught us to make better decisions.”

Shafer is a one-of-a-kind winery, with the right size to be a profitable business and at the same time, small enough to maintain the family-oriented and passionate style of work from everyone working there.

“We have seen an evolution in the wine industry and we think it has a bright future,” says Doug Shafer.

56 • January / February 2017

CELLAR

“And technology has helped a lot too. It is happening already, for we are starting to see technology for water needs for vines and locations for potential vineyards, just to name a few,” adds Elias Fernandez.

“Competition is hard,” Doug Shafer says. “We try to stay on top in every single aspect, but it is not easy.

At the same time, it is an Industry that many Latinos are exploring and getting into.

“That’s why I like to talk to young people,” Elias says.

“We need to take that seriously and convince them to start a career.”

I have always admired Shafer, not only for the pristine and constant quality of its wines, but also for the quality of its people. That shows in every bottle you drink.

These are two of their best wines:

Shafer Relentless 2013 Region: Napa Valley Varietal: Syrah/ Petite Syrah Price: $87 Aromas: Spice, blueberries and truffles Flavors: Powdered cocoa, cinnamon, ripe berries Impression: Silky Structure: Powerful and deep Drink with: BBQ ribs Why I loved this wine? Delicious and balanced My Rating: 91 pts.

Shafer Hillside Select 2011 Region: Stag’s Leap District Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon Price: $265 Aromas: Berries, chocolate, dark cherry marmalade Flavors: Dark fruit, sweet spice, rosemary, plum Impression: Powerful deep Structure: Balanced, elegant Drink with: A big, juicy steak Why I loved this wine? Excellent balance and harmonious My Rating: 96 pts.