A week ago, The National Association of Latino Healthcare Executives hosted its 7th annual summit, a three day conference packed with amazing speakers, opportunities to volunteer and some well deserved fun!. This event served as segue to Hispanic Heritage Month #HHM2024. I can’t begin to explain the energy, the passion and the unequivocal commitment, the camaraderie of Latino leaders across the country, who continue paving the way and ensuring our voices are heard and our contributions validated. The message is clear; we need to shift priorities to prepare the pipeline of professionals that will take the baton to ensure healthcare policies and implementations meet the needs of the soon to become the largest ethnic group in America. NALHE has created several spaces to bring Latino healthcare leaders and allies together through each chapter, the development of programs such as “la mesa” and “ascender”, and by being the conduit and the safety net of healthcare professionals through its annual summits.
Personally, and as part of my own professional development, for the last 4 months, I have been immersed in the inaugural cohort of the Ascender leadership program; this program was incepted and developed by an amazing and devoted healthcare leader, Raquel Ortiz, MHA, with support of Dave Ortiz, MBA-HCA, NALHE president Marcos Pesquera Rolando Gomez, MBA Cynthia Jimenez and NALHE Tri-State. I was delighted to have been paired with Marcos Pesquera as my mentor. The lessons learned and his invaluable mentorship have been unmeasurable. The time invested in a demanding tailored program has been rewarding, and has given me the privilege to meet an amazing group of fierce Latina leaders: Arlyn Trevino RDH,MHA Christina Norman Evelyn T. Josephine Guzman Karina Checo Lemond, MBA Kristina Ramos-Callan María D. Domínguez. I have so much admiration for your leadership, your authenticity and your determination. There is something very unique and special in each one of you, but we compliment each other in many more ways. We know the journey may be challenging but we have a strong support system, and the unwavering commitment of Raquel Ortiz, MHA, Dave Ortiz, MBA-HCA Marcos Pesquera, and your individual mentors, who are committed to support us and guide us. This is what leadership in action is all about! It is to show up and stick around. To appreciate feedback and recognize potential, foster, nurture and propel. Happy Hispanic Heritage Month and as this year’s theme, let’s be Pioneers of Change, let’s change the narrative, and let’s shape the future Together!
#latinasleaders #healthcare #elevate #dei #sisepuede #hhm2024