Our Vision
To cultivate and empower leaders who will inspire transformation and leave a lasting impact on our community.
Our Mission
To create opportunities that nurture personal, cultural, and professional growth, inspiring Hispanic leaders to step forward, serve, and make a positive, lasting difference.
2018
Founded in 2018 and implemented connectar; one of our first networking events (leadership development series)
2019
2019 established our mission and vision directives for a committed approach to leadership development and cultural engagement
2020
2020 served as a committee under hispanic chamber of commerce
2021
2021 formally became an independent non-profit, 501c3 status, established a board of directors. Leadership development series officially became conectar connect
2022
2022 officially launched all current initiatives; navegando mentorship program, language access toolkit, official cultural and events
2023
2023 started our first annual FUNdraiser latino night and enhanced our cultural and community engagement by activating spaces that were typically not activated by minorities. Expanded our network of leaders into community boards and committees.
2024
2024 started navegando scholarship program, first high school scholarships awarded by HLN
HLN members include leaders from top organizations and industries
Board of Directors
Dedicated professionals from diverse industries who guide our vision and ensure that our initiatives empower current and future leaders in the community
Board Chair
Elaine Botello
Elaine Botello is the board president and co-founder of the Hispanic Leaders' Network (HLN) and owns Victory Employer Services, LLC, providing Human Resources consultation and project-based services.
Board Secretary
Daniela Rodriguez
Daniela Rodriguez is a bilingual realtor with Turner Brothers Real Estate, dedicated to building strong relationships and helping clients achieve their real estate goals.
Board Member
Catelia Vazquez
Catelia has worked for Waco ISD for eight years and currently serves as Transformation Waco's Nonprofit Systems Coordinator.
Board Member
Josh Caballero
Josh Caballero is the Community Engagement Officer for the Housing and Community Development office at the City of Waco, working to advance the City’s Strategic Housing Plan.
Board Member
Caelie Terrazas
Caelie Terrazas, a Waco native, holds a bachelor’s in corporate communications from Baylor University and a master’s in strategic communication and innovation from Texas Tech University, along with certificates in advanced social media practice and inclusive and ethical leadership.
Board Vice Chair
Dr. Anthony Luevanos
Dr. Anthony Luévanos is a research scientist at Texas A&M University, focusing on executive leadership behavior in diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Board Member
Dr. Elizabeth Palacios
Dr. Elizabeth (Liz) D. Palacios, a retired higher education leader, dedicated over 40 years to advancing diversity and student development at Baylor University.
Board Member
Isabel Lozano
Isabel Lozano is the principal at Kendrick Elementary and has a diverse background in education, including roles as a teacher, instructional specialist, and assistant principal.
Board Member
Dr. Zaragosa “Mito” Diaz-Espinoza
Dr. Mito Diaz-Espinoza (PhD) currently serves as the Director of Equity Initiatives at Waco Family Medicine and his work centers on building a culture of respect and belonging among staff and patients.
Board Treasurer
Brenda Hernandez
Brenda Hernandez is the Finance Director for the City of Woodway and a Certified Public Accountant. She attended Baylor University as a first-generation college student.
Board Member
Alonzo McAdoo
Alonzo McAdoo is the Principal of University High School in Waco, Texas, where he graduated in 2002 and now works with students to shape their futures.
Board Member
Anali Looper
Analí Looper is the managing attorney and director of the Waco office of American Gateways, a nonprofit providing immigration legal services.
Board Member
Maria Macias
Maria Macias is the Program Director at VOICE, a nonprofit dedicated to teaching critical life skills and promoting behavioral health and wellness.
Previous Board Members
Board Member
Ilda Sabido
Board Member
Dr. Barbara Baggerly-Hinojosa
Board Member
Joel Martinez
-
Who can become a member of HLN?HLN is open to anyone who is passionate about leadership development and community engagement, regardless of background or industry.
-
Do I need to be Latino to join HLN?No, HLN is open to all individuals. While our history is rooted in serving the Latino community, we welcome all underrepresented groups and allies who are dedicated to fostering leadership and making a positive impact.
-
How can I get involved with HLN’s initiatives?You can get involved by attending our events, volunteering for leadership roles within our initiatives, or simply connecting with other members through our networking opportunities. Visit our Initiatives page for more details.
-
Are there any membership fees?HLN is committed to making its programs and resources accessible to all. Most of our services are free, and there are no membership fees required to participate in the core activities.
-
How does HLN support the community?Through various initiatives such as Cultural and Community Engagement, Leadership Development, and Language Access, HLN provides resources and opportunities for individuals to strengthen their leadership skills and contribute to community growth.
