{"id":766,"date":"2025-10-14T05:43:40","date_gmt":"2025-10-14T05:43:40","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-ny\/766\/"},"modified":"2025-10-14T05:43:40","modified_gmt":"2025-10-14T05:43:40","slug":"the-2025-latino-trailblazers-city-state-new-york","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-ny\/766\/","title":{"rendered":"The 2025 Latino Trailblazers – City & State New York"},"content":{"rendered":"

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\n Estibaliz Alonso<\/p>\n

Director, Hinman Straub<\/p>\n

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Estibaliz Alonso
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\n Paul Castle, Castle Photography<\/p>\n

Few Albany insiders know health policy as deeply as Estibaliz Alonso. After nearly a decade shaping legislation in the Assembly and six years at the state Department of Health, where she steered the agency\u2019s budget and legislative agenda, Alonso now focuses on long-term care providers and other mission-driven clients in the private sector. At Hinman Straub, she has secured key victories for seniors and continues to navigate New York\u2019s shifting political terrain with a strategist\u2019s eye and two decades of hard-earned influence.<\/p>\n

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\n Selma Betancourt<\/p>\n

Senior Associate State Director for Communications, AARP New York<\/p>\n

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Selma Betancourt
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\n Andre Hidalgo, AARP New York<\/p>\n

Selma Betancourt is one of the creative forces behind AARP New York\u2019s messaging, ensuring life\u2011changing information, from health to financial security to civic engagement, resonates with diverse, multilingual communities. She leads communications for over 300 events annually, but it\u2019s her bilingual campaigns and culturally tailored storytelling that elevate Latino voices and make resources more accessible to Spanish-speaking audiences in New York. By bridging gaps between policy and people, Betancourt empowers Spanish\u2011speaking families to turn information into community power.<\/p>\n

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\n Tonio Burgos<\/p>\n

Founder and CEO, Tonio Burgos & Associates<\/p>\n

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Tonio Burgos
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\n Carlos Perez<\/p>\n

Tonio Burgos has been a trusted hand at the highest levels of government, infrastructure and Latino advocacy. The former aide to then-Gov. Mario Cuomo helped reform the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey and PATH system, and Burgos has demonstrated a long-standing commitment to public health and equity as a founding board member of GMHC and the Latino Commission on AIDS. One recent policy accomplishment was securing permanent authorization of rebate for the Rum Cover-Over program for distilled spirits imported into the United States from Puerto Rico or the U.S. Virgin Islands as part of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act.<\/p>\n

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\n Carlos Calzadilla-Palacio<\/p>\n

President, Brooklyn Young Democrats<\/p>\n

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Carlos Calzadilla-Palacio
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\n Jonah Pfeifer<\/p>\n

As the first Latino president of the Brooklyn Young Democrats, Carlos Calzadilla\u2011Palacio has transformed the political club into a progressive powerhouse, endorsing ranked choice slates and pushing for affordable housing and policy changes. As district director for state Sen. Andrew Gounardes, he leads Know Your Rights workshops for immigrant communities and previously drove advocacy efforts for the New York\u202ffor All Act. He\u2019s also the founder of Disrupt PAC as a counter to the conservative Turning Point USA. A strategic organizer and community voice, Calzadilla\u2011Palacio is amplifying Latino political engagement across the borough.<\/p>\n

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\n Sadye Campoamor<\/p>\n

Chief Equity Officer, Office of the New York City Comptroller<\/p>\n

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Sadye Campoamor
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\n Ayman Siam<\/p>\n

Sadye Campoamor channels her Salvadoran roots and New York City public school upbringing into reshaping how the government measures equity. As chief equity officer under New York City Comptroller Brad Lander, she embeds racial and gender justice into every bureau of the office. She founded the office\u2019s Equity Council and serves on the city Commission on Racial Equity. Campoamor has also facilitated community conversations on school integration and equity, using lived experiences to inform citywide mandates.<\/p>\n

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\n David Caraballoso<\/p>\n

President and Assistant Executive Secretary-Treasurer, New York City and Vicinity District Council of Carpenters<\/p>\n

As the president and assistant executive secretary-treasurer of the more than 20,000-member New York City and Vicinity District Council of Carpenters, David Caraballoso is a key labor leader in New York. Caraballoso, the newly elected president of the union alongside Executive Secretary-Treasurer Paul Capurso, has risen from nonunion foreman to union steward and organizer over the course of his career, carrying with him the experience of unsafe job sites and unfair practices. Born to Cuban and Puerto Rican parents, he now champions safer conditions, fairer contracts and pathways for Latino workers in a union that reflects the city in which it builds.<\/p>\n

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\n Jose Carvajal<\/p>\n

Strategic Client Executive, Google Public Sector<\/p>\n

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Jose Carvajal
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\n Damian Badia<\/p>\n

Shaping how New Yorkers interact with and benefit from city services, Jose Carvajal is pioneering responsible artificial intelligence deployment in municipal government. After working on public sector tech initiatives in New York City government, he now leads strategic partnerships at Google Public Sector \u2013 working with agencies like the city Office of Technology and Innovation to modernize infrastructure, boost data security and improve digital equity. His work has distinguished him as a leader in inclusive civic innovation for Latino communities.<\/p>\n

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\n Miguel Centeno<\/p>\n

Vice President of Community Engagement, Healthfirst<\/p>\n

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Miguel Centeno
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\n Lee White<\/p>\n

From the Bronx to boardrooms across New York, Miguel Centeno has built a career defined by service, equity and opportunity. As vice president of community engagement at the nonprofit health insurer Healthfirst, he ensures underserved communities gain access to culturally responsive care. A first-generation college graduate and the son of Puerto Rican parents, Centeno carries his own experience into every role, whether championing diversity in the private sector, mentoring the next generation or serving on the board of the Hispanic Federation and as board chair of National Urban Fellows.<\/p>\n

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\n Rafael Cestero<\/p>\n

CEO, Community Preservation Corp.<\/p>\n

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Rafael Cestero
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\n Barbara Moonsammy<\/p>\n

Guiding New York\u2019s affordable housing into a sustainable future, Rafael Cestero has capitalized on 35 years of experience across the public, private and nonprofit sectors to transform community development finance. As CEO of Community Preservation Corp. since 2012, he has expanded the nonprofit multifamily lender\u2019s reach in affordable housing, launched its first sustainability bond series and guided it toward carbon neutrality. Previously, he helped shape New York City\u2019s housing policy as commissioner of the Department of Housing Preservation and Development.<\/p>\n

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\n Facia Class<\/p>\n

Partner, Lemma Strategies<\/p>\n

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Facia Class
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\n Facia Class<\/p>\n

Raised and rooted in Queens\u2019 diverse immigrant community, Facia Class is emerging as a well-connected political player in downstate New York. As a partner at Lemma Strategies, she brings insights and cultural fluency to campaigns that prioritize equity and justice. A former aide to leaders like Rep. Grace Meng and New York City Council Member Lynn Schulman, Class has lobbied for Steve Cohen\u2019s casino bid and helped launch the Community Care Liaison Program at Forest Hills Stadium. She also founded The White Lotus Collective, a nonprofit delivering free menstrual products to underserved communities.<\/p>\n

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\n Robert Cordero<\/p>\n

CEO, Grand St. Settlement<\/p>\n

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\n Grand St. Settlement<\/p>\n

Robert Cordero has transformed one of New York\u2019s oldest settlement houses into a modern force for equity and opportunity. Since taking the helm in 2015, Cordero has quadrupled Grand St. Settlement\u2019s budget to more than $60 million and expanded its footprint from Manhattan\u2019s Lower East Side into Brooklyn and the Bronx. Under his leadership, the organization has dramatically expanded its youth and early childhood programs, including new Head Start centers, ensuring Latino families and other underserved communities have access to education.<\/p>\n

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\n Daisy Cocco De Filippis<\/p>\n

President, Hostos Community College<\/p>\n

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Daisy Cocco De Filippis
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\n Hostos Community College<\/p>\n

After becoming the first Dominican woman to lead a CUNY college in 2020, Daisy Cocco De Filippis steered Hostos Community College through the COVID-19 pandemic and a post-pandemic recovery. Under her leadership, enrollment rebounded and the community college secured a transformative $15 million gift from philanthropist MacKenzie Scott in 2021. De Filippis also launched the Hostos Research Center, and this year, the campus was honored with the U.S. Department of Education\u2019s inaugural Postsecondary Success Recognition Program award. Also this year, the state Senate named De Filippis a Woman of Distinction.<\/p>\n

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\n Marianela Diaz<\/p>\n

Associate Director of Policy and Advocacy, Human Services Council<\/p>\n

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Marianela Diaz
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\n Stephanie Geier<\/p>\n

New York\u2019s human services sector has been advocating for better worker pay, and Marianela Diaz is on the front lines of that fight. Since joining the Human Services Council in 2022, Diaz has been a fierce voice for equity, leading the groundbreaking #JustPay campaign and pushing for better compensation and recognition for New York\u2019s underpaid human services workforce. Previously, she mobilized diverse voters as a field director and Hispanic outreach coordinator in state Senate races, ensuring immigrant and Latino communities were heard where it matters most.<\/p>\n

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\n Raquel Diaz<\/p>\n

Vice President and New York City Business Leader, Gilbane Building Co.<\/p>\n

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Raquel Diaz
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\n Gilbane<\/p>\n

Breaking barriers in a field dominated by men, Raquel Diaz is Gilbane Building Co.\u2019s newly appointed New York City business leader, making her one of the most prominent Latina engineers in the city\u2019s construction industry. Since 2019, she has had a hand in more than $2.8 billion worth of projects, from COVID-19 centers to library restorations and hospital resiliency work. Diaz champions both cultural representation and innovation, serving on diversity boards, sponsoring the company\u2019s Hispanic employee resource group and earning accolades like the Hispanic Corporate Leadership Award from the National Hispanic Business Group.<\/p>\n

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\n Rafael Espinal<\/p>\n

Executive Director, Freelancers Union<\/p>\n

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Rafael Espinal
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\n Mario De Lopez<\/p>\n

From Brooklyn to Albany and beyond, Rafael Espinal has helped redefine labor rights in the modern economy. A former state lawmaker and New York City Council member, he was once the youngest elected official in the state as a 26-year-old. As the leader of the Freelancers Union, he expanded the groundbreaking Freelance Isn\u2019t Free Act statewide and helped secure COVID-19 pandemic unemployment benefits for independent workers through federal collaboration. He also revived the Freelancers Hub, a free coworking space in Brooklyn that provides community and legal support for New York City\u2019s independent workforce.<\/p>\n

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\n Sandhya Espitia<\/p>\n

Chief Operating Officer, Real Estate Board of New York<\/p>\n

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Sandhya Espitia
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\n Jill Lotenberg<\/p>\n

Transforming trade association operations across continents, Colombian American executive Sandhya Espitia became the first chief operating officer of the Real Estate Board of New York in 2020 and has since modernized the organization through data and event innovation. She led REBNY\u2019s LEED-certified operations overhaul, rejuvenated its flagship gala (now covering 25% of operating costs) and launched the digital lease platform NYCLease.com. Appointed by Gov. Kathy Hochul to the state Board of Real Estate, Espitia brings global fluency to New York\u2019s real estate landscape.<\/p>\n

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\n Amanda Far\u00edas<\/p>\n

New York City Council Majority Leader<\/p>\n

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Amanda Far\u00edas
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\n Khiry Evanson<\/p>\n

A Bronx-born trailblazer who\u2019s a rising leader in New York City government, Amanda Far\u00edas made history in January 2024 as the first Latina to serve as majority leader of the New York City Council. As chair of the Economic Development Committee, she has advanced community-centered policy reforms, like mandating transparency on displacement risks in city-financed projects, and championed efforts to embed Latino contributions into the school curriculum. An Afro-Latina of Puerto Rican and Dominican descent, Far\u00edas is elevating Latino voices in policy, budgets and civic education across New York.<\/p>\n

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\n Joanne Fernandez<\/p>\n

Director of U.S. Government Affairs, Corning Inc.<\/p>\n

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Joanne Fernandez
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\n Emily Vallee<\/p>\n

A trailblazer in energy and policymaking, Dominican American Joanne Fernandez steers complex public affairs as director of U.S. government affairs at Corning Inc., a role she assumed in 2024. A veteran of corporate and regulatory strategy, she previously helped shape the state\u2019s offshore wind agenda as \u00d8rsted\u2019s New York head of government affairs, and served in senior roles with Entergy and in the Pataki administration on legislative affairs. She navigates sectors where Latinas are still breaking glass ceilings in energy, STEM and public policy.<\/p>\n

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\n Maria Fernandez<\/p>\n

Deputy Secretary for Education, Office of the Governor<\/p>\n

As the deputy secretary for education in the Hochul administration, Maria Fernandez orchestrated a major overhaul of New York\u2019s student aid system, securing more than $50 million in additional funding for the Tuition Assistance Program. She also simplified eligibility for part-time students and reshaped the free community college initiative to target adults ages 25-55 in high-demand career fields. Fernandez\u2019s data-driven strategy and stakeholder trust are powering New York\u2019s drive for equity in higher education.<\/p>\n

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\n Julissa Ferreras-Copeland<\/p>\n

Partner, Hollis Public Affairs<\/p>\n

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Julissa Ferreras-Copeland
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\n Alonzo Maciel<\/p>\n

As a changemaker in New York City government, Julissa Ferreras-Copeland made history as the first woman, person of color and youngest person to chair the influential New York City Council Finance Committee, overseeing an $82 billion budget and multiple major agencies. Now, as a partner at Hollis Public Affairs, she continues to shape policy, wielding her expertise in affordable housing, public-private partnerships and community benefits agreements. Her decades of leadership, from bills to budgets, have helped advance Latino representation and policy influence at every step. She recently helped lobby for the passage of a parkland alienation bill necessary for Steve Cohen\u2019s Metropolitan Park casino bid to advance.<\/p>\n

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\n Luis Flores<\/p>\n

Senior Program Manager, Stakeholder Communications, Community Outreach and Diversity and Inclusion, HNTB<\/p>\n

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\n HNTB Corp.<\/p>\n

Queens native Luis Flores has made it his mission to use New York\u2019s biggest infrastructure projects as an avenue for building generational equity in his own backyard. As part of the multibillion-dollar JFK International Airport redevelopment program, he helped secure $2.7 billion in contracts for minority- and women-owned businesses. The son of Salvadoran immigrants, Flores\u2019 work is redefining how infrastructure investment creates wealth in Latino and underserved communities.<\/p>\n

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\n Larry Gallegos<\/p>\n

Director of Public Engagement, Northeast, Florida and Puerto Rico, Clear<\/p>\n

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Larry Gallegos
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\n Carmen Rubio Photography<\/p>\n

Transforming public policy into public impact, Larry Gallegos brings behind-the-scenes know-how to community engagement. As director of public affairs for the Northeast, Florida and Puerto Rico at the identity verification company Clear, he advances inclusive access across diverse communities. In his previous role at Lyft, Gallegos launched the Racial Justice Alliance, distributing microgrants through partners like the Hispanic Federation and BronxWorks to lift up underresourced organizations. Gallegos also serves on the boards of Woodside on the Move and Neighborhood Housing Services of Queens.<\/p>\n

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\n Cristina Garcia<\/p>\n

Founder, Latinxs in Sustainability<\/p>\n

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Cristina Garcia
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\n V. Rosario<\/p>\n

Engineering climate equity in every borough, Cristina Garcia drives New York\u2019s clean energy transformation as program manager of residential energy efficiency and heating electrification at the utility giant Con Edison. The native New Yorker founded Latinxs in Sustainability in 2017, which offers mentorship, events and outreach to amplify Latino leadership in an underrepresented sector nationwide. Garcia also partnered on a workforce development program at City College of New York in 2023 and advises Women.NYC, making sustainability not only innovative, but inclusive.<\/p>\n

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\n Stan Germ\u00e1n<\/p>\n

Executive Director, New York County Defender Services<\/p>\n

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\n Ian Luna<\/p>\n

A veteran public defender and a fierce advocate for justice from the front lines in New York City, Stan Germ\u00e1n has led New York County Defender Services as its executive director for the past decade. Germ\u00e1n, who is one of few Latinos to helm a major public defenders office, helped clients navigate the COVID-19 crisis and is now ushering in a digital overhaul with artificial intelligence-powered evidence tools to sharpen client defense. He also is a past chair of the National Legal Aid & Defender Association.<\/p>\n

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\n Kristen Gonzalez<\/p>\n

State Senator<\/p>\n

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\n New York State Senate<\/p>\n

From Elmhurst to Albany, Kristen Gonzalez broke barriers in 2022 when she became the youngest woman ever elected to the state Senate, carrying her roots as the daughter of a Puerto Rican mother into powerful advocacy for immigrant and Latino communities. Gonzalez has signed on as a co-sponsor of the New York for All Act and championed smart artificial intelligence legislation that safeguards New Yorkers\u2019 data and elections. Chairing both the Internet and Technology Committee as well as the Elections Committee, she\u2019s shaping inclusive policy for the digital age and ensuring all voices are heard.<\/p>\n

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\n Teresa Gonzalez<\/p>\n

Partner, Bolton-St. Johns<\/p>\n

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Teresa Gonzalez
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\n Bolton-St. Johns<\/p>\n

A powerhouse in New York\u2019s lobbying and advocacy world, Teresa Gonzalez is a partner at Bolton-St. Johns and co-founder of two Latina-owned firms, DalyGonzalez and Evolution Strategies NY, the latter of which focuses on stakeholder engagement, land use and campaign strategy. Gonzalez has advised nonprofits, real estate and corporate clients while championing equity and access. She also serves on the board of the New York Immigration Coalition and as an ex-officio member of the Brooklyn Academy of Music board.<\/p>\n

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\n Lis Goris<\/p>\n

Chief Financial Officer, Citymeals on Wheels<\/p>\n

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Lis Goris
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\n Jake Price<\/p>\n

Turning dollars into dignity for senior New Yorkers, Lis Goris has supported Citymeals on Wheels as its chief financial officer since 2017, helping the nonprofit increase its annual revenue by 84% since then and paving the way for expanded meal delivery, emergency response and a Bronx distribution center to support older New Yorkers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Her financial leadership powers over 2 million meals each year to 22,000 homebound older adults, working toward the goal of ending elder hunger in New York City by 2040.<\/p>\n

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\n <\/a>
\n Nelson Gutierrez<\/p>\n

Director, Marlboro Older Adult Center, Jewish Community Council of Greater Coney Island<\/p>\n

Building connections where hope faces challenges, Nelson Gutierrez has served as the director of the Marlboro Older Adult Center at the Jewish Community Council of Greater Coney Island for more than three years, transforming a public housing site into a vibrant social hub. Gutierrez combats senior isolation by coordinating culturally inclusive programming and vital services, bringing residents together in a welcoming space. Respected by peers and participants alike, Gutierrez has become an anchor for community-driven care among Coney Island\u2019s seniors.<\/p>\n

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\n <\/a>
\n Felipe Henao<\/p>\n

Dean of Students, New York Institute of Technology<\/p>\n

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Felipe Henao
\n \/
\n NYU<\/p>\n

Championing equity through both empathy and innovation, Felipe Henao has served as dean of students at the New York Institute of Technology since 2021. He leads the school as it attends to students\u2019 basic needs, including by expanding the Grizzly Cupboard food pantry. He also aims to destigmatize resource access for students facing hardship. A first-generation Latino scholar, he has bridged student affairs, inclusion and institutional transformation, securing emergency food resources and building trusting cultures of belonging across both the school\u2019s Long Island and New York City campuses.<\/p>\n

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\n <\/a>
\n Sally Hern\u00e1ndez-Pi\u00f1ero<\/p>\n

Board Chair, MetroPlusHealth<\/p>\n

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Sally Hern\u00e1ndez-Pi\u00f1ero
\n \/
\n MetroPlusHealth<\/p>\n

Veteran corporate executive Sally Hern\u00e1ndez-Pi\u00f1ero serves as the board chair of MetroPlusHealth, New York City\u2019s public health plan that covers over half a million city residents. Appointed to the post in 2019, the Bronx native is the first Latina to serve in the role and is a trailblazer in expanding access to affordable health care for immigrant and low-income communities. Her leadership continues to affirm and advance equity across the city\u2019s safety net health system. She previously held senior positions at Fannie Mae and Related Companies.<\/p>\n

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\n <\/a>
\n Cania Infante<\/p>\n

Chief Marketing Officer, Municipal Credit Union<\/p>\n

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Cania Infante
\n \/
\n Municipal Credit Union<\/p>\n

Cania Infante ascended from front-line banking to become chief marketing officer of Municipal Credit Union, a major credit union in New York City. Over two decades, she rose through the ranks at Bethpage Federal Credit Union, which recently was renamed FourLeaf Federal Credit Union. In 2023, Infante joined MCU, where she has marketed new high-yield savings accounts, spearheaded a more accessible digital storefront and boosted referrals. With decades of experience, Infante\u2019s approach is rooted in understanding community needs and amplifying the credit union\u2019s member-first mission.<\/p>\n

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\n <\/a>
\n Paloma Izquierdo-Hernandez<\/p>\n

President and CEO, Urban Health Plan<\/p>\n

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Paloma Izquierdo-Hernandez
\n \/
\n Romina Hendlin<\/p>\n

Paloma Izquierdo-Hernandez has redefined community health care leadership as president and CEO of Urban Health Plan, which has expanded from a single Bronx clinic into one of New York\u2019s largest federally qualified health centers. On her watch, Urban Health Plan has grown to serve nearly 90,000 patients annually across the Bronx, Harlem and Queens. In 2023, she became chair of the National Association of Community Health Centers, a role she\u2019ll hold until September 2026, elevating equity and innovation nationwide.<\/p>\n

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\n <\/a>
\n Andrea Jerves<\/p>\n

Director of Programs and Development, HANAC<\/p>\n

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Andrea Jerves
\n \/
\n Dorothy Shi<\/p>\n

As director of programs and development at the New York City social services nonprofit HANAC, Andrea Jerves channels her experience as an Ecuadorian American immigrant into building lifelines for New York\u2019s most vulnerable people. She oversees initiatives that reach 30,000 New Yorkers annually, from legal immigration assistance and senior arts programming to youth employment and crisis support. Jerves\u2019 leadership has expanded services and secured critical funding at a time of rising demand for immigrant support, ensuring equity, dignity and opportunity for underserved communities across the city.<\/p>\n

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\n <\/a>
\n Juan Kupferman<\/p>\n

Division Chief, Pediatric Nephrology and Hypertension, Maimonides Health<\/p>\n

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Juan Kupferman
\n \/
\n Darcy Rogers<\/p>\n

A nationally recognized pediatric nephrologist, Dr. Juan Kupferman founded Maimonides Health\u2019s Division of Pediatric Nephrology and Hypertension, the first of its kind in Brooklyn. Kupferman has built the division into an internationally recognized program for children with complex kidney conditions. In 2024, he became Maimonides\u2019 first Latino president of the medical staff, representing more than 1,800 physicians and serving on the hospital\u2019s board. An Argentinian and the son of a Holocaust survivor, Kupferman draws on his Hispanic and Jewish heritage to promote inclusive patient care and mentorship.<\/p>\n

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\n Mayra Linares-Garcia<\/p>\n

Vice President of Public Affairs and Communications, Liberty Coca-Cola Beverages<\/p>\n

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Mayra Linares-Garcia
\n \/
\n Andre Beckles, CUNY<\/p>\n

A Washington Heights native shaping Latino engagement, Mayra Linares-Garcia has long woven equity into New York\u2019s civic fabric. As vice president of public affairs and communications at Liberty Coca-Cola Beverages since 2018, she amplifies Latino voices through strategic outreach and community partnerships. Linares-Garcia previously directed Latino affairs office under then-Gov. Andrew Cuomo and currently serves on the CUNY board of trustees, bridging corporations, the public sphere and local communities with savvy advocacy and cultural insight.<\/p>\n

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\n <\/a>
\n Dani Lopez<\/p>\n

Co-Founder and Chief of Strategy and Operations, Lulo<\/p>\n

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Dani Lopez
\n \/
\n Dani Lopez<\/p>\n

Dani Lopez is transforming how families access food benefits in New York through community-centered technology. As co-founder of Lulo, a social impact venture incubated at Robin Hood, she launched a free app that simplifies WIC shopping by showing users which items are covered and directs them to local food pantries and diaper banks. The app has been used by over 7,000 New York state families since its launch in September 2024. Born in Manhattan and raised in the Bronx, Lopez is also the project director of the WIC Data Project.<\/p>\n

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\n <\/a>
\n Lilibeth Marchena<\/p>\n

Director of Rainbow Clubhouse, Emma L. Bowen Community Service Center<\/p>\n

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Lilibeth Marchena
\n \/
\n Emma L. Bowen Community Service Center<\/p>\n

Reshaping mental health recovery for New Yorkers, Lilibeth Marchena has run the Rainbow Clubhouse at Emma L. Bowen Community Service Center since 2023, mentoring adults with serious mental illness through a strength-based, socially inclusive approach that has seen membership grow. Marchena fosters cultural connection and dignity within recovery, relying on her cultural fluency and Spanish-language skills to improve access to mental health care in her community. She has also guided the program through its latest Clubhouse International accreditation while ensuring peer support remains central to its model.<\/p>\n

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\n <\/a>
\n Ana Marengo<\/p>\n

Vice President, Communications and Engagement, Mother Cabrini Health Foundation<\/p>\n

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Ana Marengo
\n \/
\n Alice Prenat<\/p>\n

A veteran communicator in New York\u2019s public and philanthropy sectors, Ana Marengo has elevated the visibility and reach of institutions serving millions. As vice president of communications and engagement at the Mother Cabrini Health Foundation, she helped the foundation mark their $1 billion in grantmaking milestone since its founding in 2018. She also spearheaded the communications strategy for its\u00a0nursing initiative across 13 hospitals serving high-need communities. Previously, during nearly 17 years at NYC Health + Hospitals, she unified the nation\u2019s largest public health system under one brand.<\/p>\n

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\n <\/a>
\n Rosita Marinez<\/p>\n

Senior Vice President, Supported Housing, Institute for Community Living<\/p>\n

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Rosita Marinez
\n \/
\n JC Penny<\/p>\n

At the Institute for Community Living, long one of New York\u2019s largest providers of supportive housing, Rosita Marinez drives innovation and equity. As senior vice president of supported housing, she manages more than 1,700 beds in partnership with the state Office of Mental Health. Marinez also spearheaded Health Connect, an embedded care model for residents with serious mental illness. With decades of experience, she has advanced mental health, housing\u00a0and social services while mentoring the next generation of Latino leaders.<\/p>\n

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\n Walter Mejia<\/p>\n

Founder and President, New York Republican Latinos<\/p>\n

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Walter Mejia
\n \/
\n Dino Petrocelli, NYS Assembly<\/p>\n

Many Latinos have been drifting away from the Democratic Party, and New York Republican Latinos\u2019 founder and President Walter Mejia is seizing the moment. Mejia has been boosting conservative Latino engagement across the state, building Latino Republican power from the ground up. Mejia also serves as the director of community affairs for the Assembly Republican conference and is\u00a0focused on serving the Latino community within the legislative caucus. A stalwart voice in bridging cultural identity and civic engagement, the Salvadoran immigrant is reshaping the political landscape for Latino Republicans in New York.<\/p>\n

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\n Rebecca Miller<\/p>\n

New York State Legislative and Political Director, Communications Workers of America District 1<\/p>\n

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Rebecca Miller
\n \/
\n Rebecca Miller<\/p>\n

Rebecca Miller drives health care advocacy in Albany with clarity and passion. As the New York state legislative and political director for the labor power house that is Communications Workers of America District 1, she advocates for thousands of workers in telecommunications, health care and several other fields. She regularly testifies on systemic issues such as hospital staffing and Medicaid underfunding, calling low staffing levels \u201cthe No. 1 issue harming patient care.\u201d Miller\u2019s leadership ensures front-line voices are heard in budget negotiations, elevating both labor justice and patient safety.<\/p>\n

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\n Michael Nieves<\/p>\n

President and CEO, HITN<\/p>\n

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Michael Nieves
\n \/
\n HITN<\/p>\n

Michael Nieves is the president and CEO of the Hispanic Information and Telecommunications Network, the largest nonprofit Spanish-language broadcaster in the U.S. Nieves has expanded HITN\u2019s reach and cultural influence with a compelling strategic vision and strong storytelling. The former policy and political staffer has increased viewership by over 10 million Latino households, secured a landmark Sprint partnership and launched civic programming like \u201cTu Momento.\u201d Under his leadership, HITN garnered its first Emmy in 2024.<\/p>\n


\n <\/p>\n

Editor\u2019s note: Michael Nieves is a member of City & State\u2019s advisory board.<\/p>\n

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\n Frankie Miranda<\/p>\n

President and CEO, Hispanic Federation<\/p>\n

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Frankie Miranda
\n \/
\n Photosbykai<\/p>\n

Frankie Miranda is the trailblazing leader of the Hispanic Federation, a Latino nonprofit that he took the reins of in 2019. Miranda made history as the first out gay president and CEO of the organization, which has been empowering and advancing the Hispanic community since its founding in 1990. Headquartered in Manhattan, the organization also has offices in Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico and five other states and is active in 43 states and territories.\u00a0<\/p>\n

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\n <\/a>
\n Carolina Oleas<\/p>\n

Workforce and Community Partners Manager, Day Laborers Program, Catholic Charities of New York<\/p>\n

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Carolina Oleas
\n \/
\n Luisyibrin<\/p>\n

Drawing on her own immigrant experience, Carolina Oleas brings resilience and empathy to her role as workforce and community manager at Catholic Charities of New York\u2019s Day Laborers Program. Oleas partners with \u201cjornaleros\u201d to expand workforce development, offering workers\u2019 rights education and job readiness workshops that improve both skills and confidence. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she helped sustain her community by strengthening partnerships with organizations and leaders. Today, she continues to open doors for immigrant workers and their families.<\/p>\n

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\n <\/a>
\n Ana Oliveira<\/p>\n

President and CEO, The New York Women\u2019s Foundation<\/p>\n

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Ana Oliveira
\n \/
\n Donna F. Aceto<\/p>\n

For nearly two decades, Ana Oliveira has been a fixture in New York\u2019s public sphere in her role as president and CEO of The New York Women\u2019s Foundation. On her watch, the philanthropic organization has seen annual grantmaking grow from $1.7 million to over $125 million directed to more than 500 organizations. A staunch advocate for gender and economic justice, she co-chaired the New York City Council\u2019s Young Women\u2019s Initiative and serves on multiple civic commissions.<\/p>\n

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\n <\/a>
\n Jason Olmeda<\/p>\n

Vice President and BSA\/AML Officer, Ponce Bank<\/p>\n

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Jason Olmeda
\n \/
\n Ponce Bank<\/p>\n

At Bronx-based Ponce Bank, Jason Olmeda spearheads risk mitigation and compliance. As vice president and BSA\/AML officer, Olmeda ensures compliance with federal Bank Secrecy Act and Anti-Money Laundering Act. Olmeda, who has two decades of banking experience, works across multiple branches in New York City, Long Island and New Jersey, a critical role for a bank with deep roots in Latino community development. Recently, Ponce Bank was named one of 10 financial institutions included in New York state\u2019s new Cannabis Banking Directory, highlighting Olmeda\u2019s expertise in navigating complex regulatory landscapes.<\/p>\n

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\n Jason Ortiz<\/p>\n

Co-Founder and CEO, Moonshot Strategies<\/p>\n

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Jason Ortiz
\n \/
\n John Rossi<\/p>\n

Jason Ortiz is shaping New York\u2019s political and policy landscape with strategy and substance. The Moonshot Strategies co-founder is a seasoned political operator with two decades of experience, and he has played a central role in campaigns and policy wins for several organizations, including the Innocence Project, Vera Institute and the Hotel and Gaming Trades Council \u2013 the influential labor union where he cut his teeth as political director. Since launching Moonshot Strategies in 2021, he continues to drive major legislative and electoral projects across city and state races.<\/p>\n

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\n <\/a>
\n Janet Peguero<\/p>\n

Chief Operating Officer, Constantinople & Vallone Consulting<\/p>\n

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Janet Peguero
\n \/
\n Finalis Valdez<\/p>\n

A Bronx public servant turned strategic leader, Janet Peguero made history in 2022 as the first Dominican American woman to serve as deputy borough president of the Bronx. In that boroughwide post, she supported reinvestment in affordable housing, small-business growth and the community-led, $200 million Kingsbridge Armory revitalization project. Earlier this year, Peguero left her government position and returned to Constantinople & Vallone Consulting as its chief operating officer, guiding the firm’s growth through equitable public affairs and development strategy.<\/p>\n

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\n Ramon Peguero<\/p>\n

President and CEO, Committee for Hispanic Children and Families<\/p>\n

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Ramon Peguero
\n \/
\n Box of Dreams<\/p>\n

At the nonprofit Committee for Hispanic Children and Families, Ramon Peguero connects essential services, including affordable housing and early education, to Latino families. He previously transformed Southside United HDFC in Williamsburg, an affordable housing provider, and has now expanded CHCF\u2019s reach to serve over 35,000 parents and youth across community-based programs. Peguero also sits on the boards of the Brooklyn Navy Yard Development Corp. and the Early Care & Learning Council and is a member of the Priority & Strategy Council for the Human Services Council.<\/p>\n

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\n Julio Pe\u00f1a III<\/p>\n

Director of Project Reach, Chinese-American Planning Council<\/p>\n

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Julio Pe\u00f1a III
\n \/
\n Cesar Zun\u0303iga<\/p>\n

Bridging Latino, Asian and immigrant communities across New York, Julio Pe\u00f1a III leads with vision and purpose. As a director of Project Reach at the Chinese-American Planning Council, he oversees youth development programs as well as LGBTQ+ and antidiscrimination workshops, advancing opportunities for youth of all backgrounds. Separately, as a Democratic district leader in Sunset Park and Red Hook and as chair of Brooklyn Community Board 7, he has championed equity, inclusion and youth engagement. With a tireless commitment to social justice, Pe\u00f1a has built cross-community coalitions that amplify underrepresented voices and empower underserved New Yorkers.<\/p>\n

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\n <\/a>
\n Lilliam Perez<\/p>\n

Vice President of Government and Community Relations, Montefiore Einstein<\/p>\n

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Lilliam Perez
\n \/
\n Montefiore Einstein<\/p>\n

Lilliam Perez is the longtime vice president of government and community relations at Montefiore Einstein, an academic health system made up of the Albert Einstein College of Medicine and the Montefiore Health System with 10 hospitals across New York City and the Hudson Valley. She established a partnership with the Bard High School Early College Bronx to bring students to a medical school campus and forge ties between Bard and Bronx community leaders. She previously held key roles in the state Senate.<\/p>\n

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\n <\/a>
\n Roberto Perez<\/p>\n

Senior Adviser, Brown & Weinraub<\/p>\n

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Roberto Perez
\n \/
\n Timothy H. Raab, Timothy Raab & Northern Photo<\/p>\n

A veteran policy and strategic expert, Roberto Perez serves as senior adviser at the state\u2019s top-ranked lobbying firm, Brown & Weinraub, bringing decades of public sector leadership to the private sector. Previously, he shaped legislative and political bridges between Albany and City Hall as vice president of legislative affairs at the New York Power Authority and director of intergovernmental affairs in the New York City mayor\u2019s office. He\u2019s also the host of the long-running \u201cThe Perez Notes\u201d political podcast.<\/p>\n

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\n Bianca Rajpersaud<\/p>\n

Associate Director, Government Relations, Davidoff Hutcher & Citron<\/p>\n

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Bianca Rajpersaud
\n \/
\n Davidoff Hutcher & Citron LLP<\/p>\n

An intermediary between New York City and state government and community stakeholders, Bianca Rajpersaud advises clients at Davidoff Hutcher & Citron LLP on issues ranging from infrastructure to policies promoting minority- and women-owned businesses. The lifelong Staten Islander and former Assembly staffer is also a former state Senate candidate and serves as district leader for Assembly District 63 and president of the North Shore Democratic Club of Staten Island.<\/p>\n

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\n Tomas Ramos<\/p>\n

Founder, President and CEO, Oyate Group<\/p>\n

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Tomas Ramos
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\n Buck Ennis<\/p>\n

Tomas Ramos is building Bronx resilience to effect systemic change. A first-generation Dominican American, he founded Oyate Group in 2020 to tackle poverty across New York City. Under his leadership, the organization has vaccinated over 40,000 Bronx residents, distributed more than $200,000 in small-business grants and awarded over $20,000 in scholarships. Through initiatives like Beyond Rising for undocumented youths and La Escuela Comunitaria del Bronx, a tuition-free bilingual preschool, Ramos is building opportunity and dignity for underserved New Yorkers.<\/p>\n

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\n Beverly Raudales<\/p>\n

Chief Program Officer, Comunilife<\/p>\n

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Beverly Raudales
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\n Beverly Raudales<\/p>\n

Dr. Beverly Raudales focuses on housing to support healing. As chief program officer at the housing and social services nonprofit Comunilife, she oversees over 2,800 units of housing. She also leads the organization\u2019s Medical Respite and Life is Precious programs serving vulnerable populations. During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, she created beds tailored for medically stable but quarantined individuals, minimizing hospital readmission. With over 20 years in supportive housing, Raudales drives equity and innovation in community health.<\/p>\n

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\n Mercedes Rendon<\/p>\n

Chief Financial Officer, LaGuardia Gateway Partners<\/p>\n

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Mercedes Rendon
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\n LaGuardia Gateway Partners<\/p>\n

As chief financial officer of LaGuardia Gateway Partners, Mercedes Rendon has overseen one of the most ambitious infrastructure transformations in U.S. aviation. She helped direct the $5.1 billion redevelopment of LaGuardia Terminal B, the nation\u2019s largest public-private airport partnership, completing the project on time and budget. Today, Rendon leads the terminal\u2019s financial transition from redevelopment to management, stewarding sustainability commitments and stakeholder trust. During her tenure, Terminal B has earned global accolades.<\/p>\n

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\n Havid\u00e1n Rodr\u00edguez<\/p>\n

President, University at Albany<\/p>\n

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Havid\u00e1n Rodr\u00edguez
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\n Patrick Dodson, University at Albany<\/p>\n

Havid\u00e1n Rodr\u00edguez leads one of the country\u2019s most diverse research universities. Since becoming the first Latino president of SUNY\u2019s University at Albany in 2017, he has secured $75 million in state funds for a new artificial intelligence supercomputing initiative, earned a Seal of Excelencia designation for supporting Latino student success and merged engineering disciplines to form a cutting-edge nanotech college aligning with the federal CHIPS and Science Act. He\u2019s also a commissioner on the Middle States Commission on Higher Education and a co-chair of the Capital Region Regional Economic Development Council.<\/p>\n

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\n Alithia Rodriguez-Rolon<\/p>\n

Legislative Director, New York State United Teachers<\/p>\n

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Alithia Rodriguez-Rolon
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\n El-Wise Noisette, NYSUT<\/p>\n

As the first woman and Latina to lead New York State United Teachers\u2019 legislative department, Alithia Rodriguez-Rolon has broken barriers and transformed advocacy into results for educators statewide. With her help, NYSUT has secured landmark victories, from reforming performance reviews and public pension plans to protecting classrooms from extreme weather. Rodriguez-Rolon also championed the statewide ban on cellphones in schools, alongside countless other legislative initiatives that directly impact the lives of New York\u2019s educators, students and families.<\/p>\n

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\n Olga Rodriguez-Vidal<\/p>\n

Vice President, Domestic Violence Shelter Operations, Safe Horizon<\/p>\n

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Olga Rodriguez-Vidal
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\n Olga Rodriguez-Vidal<\/p>\n

Guided by a deep commitment to justice and equity, Olga Rodriguez-Vidal leads Safe Horizon\u2019s network of eight 24-hour domestic violence shelters across New York City. Since joining the organization in 2007, she has advanced trauma-informed, client-centered approaches that restore safety and dignity for survivors and their families. Under her leadership, the shelters launched child-friendly centers and an innovative mental health intervention for survivors and their children, programs that exemplify her compassionate creativity. She was born in the Dominican Republic, was raised in Puerto Rico and immigrated to the United States in her youth.<\/p>\n

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\n Debbie Roman<\/p>\n

Managing Director, New York, Per Scholas<\/p>\n

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Debbie Roman
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\n Richard Rosario<\/p>\n

For decades, Debbie Roman has redefined equitable workforce development. At Per Scholas, she has spearheaded initiatives in New York that connect historically marginalized communities, particularly Latinos, with life-changing career opportunities in technology and other fields. Overseeing campuses in the Bronx and Brooklyn as well as six satellite classrooms across the five boroughs, Roman builds partnerships and designs training programs that drive economic mobility and mentors the next generation of leaders. She recently secured a $100,000 donation from Amazon and the NFL\u2019s Inspire Change initiative to support tuition-free tech training. She was born and raised in Puerto Rico.<\/p>\n

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\n Henry Rubio<\/p>\n

President, Council of School Supervisors and Administrators<\/p>\n

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Henry Rubio
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\n Rachel Elkind<\/p>\n

As the first Latino president of the Council of School Supervisors and Administrators, Henry Rubio advocates for more than 18,000 current and retired school system officials across New York City. As president of the labor union, he has secured flexible paid parental leave and pay equity for directors in community-based day care centers. The Dominican American labor leader also serves as general vice president of the American Federation of School Administrators, amplifying Latino leadership in education policy.<\/p>\n

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\n Prisca Salazar-Rodriguez<\/p>\n

Partner, Bolton-St. Johns<\/p>\n

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Prisca Salazar-Rodriguez
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\n Bolton St. Johns<\/p>\n

At the intersection of government and advocacy, Prisca Salazar-Rodriguez advises clients in economic development, land use and workforce policy. Beginning in the Bronx borough president\u2019s office and later serving in the New York City mayor\u2019s office, she built a reputation as a trusted public servant before transitioning to the private sector. Now a partner at Bolton-St. Johns, she continues to deepen relationships across all levels of government. A co-founder of Evolution Strategies NY, Salazar-Rodriguez promotes Latino communities and actively supports women in leadership through 100 Hispanic Women.<\/p>\n

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\n Jose Santiago<\/p>\n

Vice President of Finance, Amida Care<\/p>\n

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Jose Santiago
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\n Jose Santiago<\/p>\n

Jose Santiago is the vice president of finance at Amida Care, bolstering the financial health of New York\u2019s largest Medicaid Special Needs Plan. Santiago, who assumed the role in 2021 after serving as controller at MetroPlusHealth, now manages $500 million in annual revenue that supports care for nearly 10,000 New Yorkers. In the role, he has modernized accounting systems, strengthened compliance and boosted operational efficiency. With decades in health plan finance, he is also an active mentor within Amida Care\u2019s Latine Peoples Employee Resource Group.<\/p>\n

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\n John Santos<\/p>\n

Secretary Treasurer, 32BJ SEIU<\/p>\n

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John Santos
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\n 32BJ SEIU<\/p>\n

John Santos is a veteran labor advocate who rose from being a doorman and elevator operator to a high-ranking leadership post at one of New York\u2019s most influential unions. Santos assists President Manny Pastreich in leading 32BJ SEIU, the nation\u2019s largest property service workers union with over 185,000 members. Santos also continues to hold the position of New York metro director for the union. An architect of key contracts for thousands of cleaners and building service workers, Santos continues to protect the interests of working families across New York City.<\/p>\n

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\n Eileen Torres<\/p>\n

CEO, BronxWorks<\/p>\n

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Eileen Torres
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\n Russ Campbell<\/p>\n

A Bronx native of Puerto Rican descent deeply rooted in her community, Eileen Torres has helped guide BronxWorks for three decades, serving over the years as the organization\u2019s legal counsel, executive director and, since 2023, CEO. The nonprofit now reaches over 60,000 residents annually across more than 65 locations in the borough. BronxWorks also advocates for wage equity for human services workers, with staffers traveling to the state Capitol in March to call for change.<\/p>\n

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\n Arminda Torres<\/p>\n

Senior Manager, Call Center and Bronx Support Services, New York Psychotherapy and Counseling Center<\/p>\n

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Arminda Torres
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\n Tals Studio<\/p>\n

At the New York Psychotherapy and Counseling Center, a mental health network serving more than 25,000 New Yorkers a year, Arminda Torres focuses on providing barrier-free access to care. As a senior manager overseeing the organization\u2019s call center and Bronx support services, she oversees intake and referral operations, routing callers to bilingual care and supporting Bronx site services seven days a week. Her team-centered leadership helps reduce barriers for Spanish-speaking and underserved families, and turns first contacts into timely, culturally competent care.<\/p>\n

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\n Samuel Vasquez Martinez<\/p>\n

Chief of Staff, Office of state Sen. Brad Hoylman-Sigal<\/p>\n

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Samuel Vasquez Martinez
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\n Brigheil Lalor<\/p>\n

State Sen. Brad Hoylman-Sigal has long been one of Albany\u2019s most effective policymakers, which is a testament to top-notch staffers like Samuel Vasquez Martinez. Vasquez Martinez, who has been in Hoylman-Sigal\u2019s office since 2019 \u2013 and as chief of staff since 2024 \u2013 helping him build a record that has put him on the cusp of becoming the next Manhattan borough president. Last year, Vasquez Martinez participated in the Kriegel Fellowship for Public Service Leaders, a leadership development program for legislative chiefs of staff across New York City and state government.<\/p>\n

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\n Elizabeth Velez<\/p>\n

President, Velez Organization<\/p>\n

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Elizabeth Velez
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\n NYBF<\/p>\n

The Velez Organization is an institution in New York\u2019s construction industry, and so is the construction services company\u2019s leader, Elizabeth Velez. Velez has overseen projects delivering over 600 affordable housing units in the Bronx and Harlem and managed projects in educational, health care and civic development across the five boroughs. A staunch advocate for diversity in construction, Velez serves on the boards of the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York, the New York City Economic Development Corp. and the New York Building Congress.<\/p>\n

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\n John Zaccaro Jr.<\/p>\n

Assembly Member<\/p>\n

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John Zaccaro Jr.
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\n New York State Assembly Photography<\/p>\n

Assembly Member John Zaccaro Jr. has represented his corner of the Northeast Bronx district since 2023, when he filled the post left vacant by now-state Sen. Nathalia Fernandez. The longtime public servant, who has Puerto Rican, Colombian and Italian heritage, cut his teeth working in the\u00a0New York City Council for Fernando Cabrera and Rafael Salamanca Jr.\u00a0As a lawmaker, he pushed successfully for a measure empowering state agencies to revoke tobacco, liquor or lottery licenses of businesses that sell or possess illegal cannabis. He also co-sponsored legislation aiding homeless youth.<\/p>\n

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<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Estibaliz Alonso Director, Hinman Straub Estibaliz Alonso \/ Paul Castle, Castle Photography Few Albany insiders know health policy…\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":767,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[6],"tags":[9,11,10,49,51,50,805,926],"class_list":{"0":"post-766","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-new-york","8":"tag-new-york","9":"tag-new-york-headlines","10":"tag-new-york-news","11":"tag-new-york-state","12":"tag-new-york-state-headlines","13":"tag-new-york-state-news","14":"tag-publishers-section","15":"tag-trailblazers"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-ny\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/766","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-ny\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-ny\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-ny\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-ny\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=766"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-ny\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/766\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-ny\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/767"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-ny\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=766"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-ny\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=766"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-ny\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=766"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}