Latina Style - Cuba Story

22nd Anniversary

LATINA StyleA National Magazine for the Contemporary Hispanic Woman

Vol. 22, No. 4, 2016$2.95

LATINAStyle®

Vol. 22, No. 4, 2016 July/August

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Columns & Departments

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Features

4 Publisher’s Message6 Latinas Today16 LATINA Style Business Series, Seattle, WA 18 Latina Entrepreneurs Make their Mark in Seattle44 World Touring: Cuba46 Food & Entertainment50 Social Media: LinkedIn: A Powerful Online Tool, By Rebecca Aguilar52 Latina Letters From the Front! Lt. j.g. Eileen M. Suarez, Public

Affairs Officer, U.S. Navy Reserve54 A Veteran’s Perspective: 3 Tips to Help You Stand Out in the

Civilian Job Market: A Message to Service Members. By Evan Guzman, Global Head of Military Programs & Veteran Affairs,Verizon Corporate Office

56 Las Jefas: Unleashing The Power of Women Entrepreneurs By Marisa Rivera

58 About the Author: The Weight of Feathers, By Anna-Marie McLemore

60 College Beat: By Marissa Garcia, Electrical Engineering, MSEE, University of Southern California 2016, BSEE, Rice University 2015

62 His View: By Arne M. Sorenson, President and Chief Executive Officer, Marriott International, Inc.

64 ¡Punto Final!: By Brenda Durham, Senior Vice President & Regional General Counsel, Marriott International, Inc.

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8 Latinas, Be Moved: Get in the Driver’s Seat and Enjoy the RideThe pace of living is going faster than ever for most of us andcars for some women are like an appliance that keeps theirlife rolling. Others are enthusiasts and really care about thewheels they drive. We took a look at a few cars that are newor upgraded for 2016; they’re attractive, practical, and even abit sporty and fun. Now, it’s your turn!By Sue Mead

12 Latinas Leading in STEMMeet three women who are re-defining the role of Latinas inSTEM. Sandra Rivera, vice president at Intel Corporation;Marjorie Blanco, software engineer at The Boeing Company;and Rebecca Garcia, program manager within Civic Tech &Innovation for Tech Jobs Academy at Microsoft and co-founderof nonprofit CoderDojo NYC, are raising the bar, inspiringyounger generations who want to follow in their footsteps andstop at nothing to make the world a better place. By Christine Bolaños

20 Latina Executives at Comerica Bank Set Tone for Future in BankingLatinas at Comerica Bank not only hold top positions, but theyembrace the company’s culture of employee resources andsupport, specifically those aimed at Latinas and women. Thebank operates primarily in five states across the U.S. and hasthree female market presidents, two of whom are Latinas.Read about their road to success in the banking industry here.By Christine Bolaños

24 The 2016 LATINA Style 50 Annual ReportFind out which company made it as the “Company of the Year”and the full list of those ranked as the 50 best companies forLatinas to work for in the United States on our 2016 LATINAStyle 50 Report. Learn how these companies are supportingthe growing Latina community in the United States. By Reyna Sanchez

LEADING FORWARD,

MOVING AHEAD.

We travel in many styles, across ten incredible brands.

We call hundreds of extraordinary destinations home.

Delivering memorable moments and exceeding our guests’

expectations around the world is our common objective.

With more than 120,000 employees from 60 countries, diversity

is part of our DNA.

www.wlcl.com

Pictured:

Mayda Gonzalez,Sr. Director, Identity and Access Management

On board since 2015

4 www.lat inasty le.com LATINAStyle Vol. 22, No. 4 , 2016

Founder & Publisher Anna Maria Arias

President & CEO Robert E. [email protected]

Chief Operating Lupita ColmeneroOfficer [email protected]

Managing Editor Gloria [email protected]

Graphic Designer Andrea [email protected]

Contributing Einer AgredoGraphic Designer [email protected]

Contributors Anna-Marie McLemoreArne M. SorensonBrenda DurhamCarlos OrtaChristine BolañosEileen SuarezEvan GuzmanKarina Flores-HurleyRebecca AguilarMarissa GarciaSue Mead

Senior Events Manager Tania [email protected]

Director of Special LCDR Johnny Quezada, USN (Ret.)Programs and Military [email protected]

Director of Sales Victor [email protected]

Circulation Manager Maria E. Gallegos& Subscriptions [email protected]

Web Address www.latinastyle.comWeb Site by: vicom.comStock Photography istockphoto.com

LATINA Style is published bimonthly by LATINA Style, Inc. 2102 EmpireCentral, Dallas, TX, 75235. Subscriptions are available at $20 for two yearsfor a total of 12 issues. To subscribe to LATINA Style call (214) 357-2186 or sendchecks to LATINA Style Magazine, 2102 Empire Central, Dallas, TX,75235. The publisher reserves the right to accept or reject any editorialor advertising matter. Editorial submissions must be accompanied by aself-addressed, stamped envelope. The publisher assumes no responsibilityfor return of unsolicited manuscripts or art. No part of this magazine maybe reprinted or otherwise duplicated without the written permission ofthe editor. Copyright by LATINA Style, Inc. All rights reserved. "LATINAStyle" (ISSN 1531-0868). Vol. 22, No. 4, July/August 2016.

LATINAStyle®

Our Daughter Came Home

Sometimes it seems that we are living in a world of fantasyuntil real life gets in the way. We are so busy achieving goals,making sure that everything is in place that we tend to forget

that very important things are taking place in our lives all the time. For us,it has been that kind of a year. A refocusing of priorities, a realignmentof concerns.

On August 15, 2015 our daughter packed her bags and headed toKabul, Afghanistan. For 300 days we have counted the minutes for herto come home. We have learned firsthand the hard lesson that when onefamily member serves, the whole family serves with them. The worrythat her Mom, Lupita, and the family has lived with for nearly a year ofEileen's service in Kabul, is hard to describe. The sleep deprivation, theconstant Kabul airport alerts on the phone, the ongoing worse newsimaginable on the television, and the seemingly indifference that thecountry seems to express took a heavy toll on our family.

Eileen Suarez joined the U.S. Navy reserve to fulfill her duty to our country.We never expected that her service would take her to one of the mostdangerous places in the world. But now she is finally back home and you cansee the joy on her mother's face. Eileen and Lupita have a special relationship,one that now is so much stronger. We now will go back to worry abouteveryday things, the way all parents worry about their children.

Eileen left as a young woman and has returned as an accomplishedmilitary officer full of confidence and determination. So what did youlearn Eileen? “I learned that America is the greatest country in the world,and that if we took the time to look around us we would realize that theopportunities we have here are nowhere else available to everyday folks,especially women; we live in a blessed place,” she said.

Our family would like to thank all of our friends that kept Eileen in theirprayers, it made a great difference. Thank You! Thank You! Thank You! Andlet's not forget that thousands of our children are still serving our country inthese very dangerous places, let's keep our prayers alive for them and theirfamilies as well. You can read Eileen's story in her own words in our"Latina Letters from the Front” column. Thank you all.

This happens to be our most awaited issue of LATINA Style. Selectingthe Top 50 companies for Latinas to work for is a difficult task. Great effortsare taken to not make mistakes and ensure that Latinas can truly find bestplaces where to nurture their careers. This year, Marriott International, Inc.took the top spot. As always, it was a tough selection. We have longestablished a policy of making a company eligible only every three yearsfor the top spot. But you can see by the top five companies that they continueto excel. We experienced a number of changes on our list as a number ofnew companies joined the ranks. I hope you enjoy our feature and makegood use of it.

Warm regards to all and thank you one more time.

Robert E. Bard

Publ

isher

’s M

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Start with a diverse and inclusive culture, welcome everyone’s ideas, and innovation shines through.

AT&T is a proud supporter of LATINA Style and honored to be #3 on the Top 12 Companies of the Year Latina Style 50 Report.

At AT&T, Every Voice Matters.

Equally innovative

© 2016 AT&T Intellectual Property. All rights reserved.

www.att.com/diversity

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IN THE NEWS

Esther Aguilera The Latino CorporateDirectors Association(LCDA) announced thatits board of directorsunanimously selectedEsther Aguilera to serveas its first President andCEO. LCDA is the first association of U.S. Latinosserving on public or private company boards anddedicated to increasing the number of Latinos oncorporate boards.

"LCDA enthusiastically welcomes Esther and ispleased to draw upon her 25-year record ofaccomplishments to advance LCDA's critical missionand programs," said Patricia Salas Pineda, Toyotasenior executive and LCDA Board Chair. "LCDA'smission is more important than ever and ourorganization is providing a solution to address theunderrepresentation of Latinos serving on U.S.corporate boards. LCDA serves as a trustedsource for corporations and search firms seekingLatino board talent."

Aguilera is an accomplished executive with a25-year record of success in a variety of disciplinesand sectors, including a consultant to Fortune 100companies, senior advisor to Cabinet andCongressional Members, federal senior executive,non-profit CEO, and Capitol Hill legislative director.

Aguilera is on the Board of Trustee of theSouthern Education Foundation and previouslyserved on the boards of the American Society ofAssociation Executives (ASAE) and the HispanicAssociation on Corporate Responsibility (HACR). She has a BA in public policy from OccidentalCollege and completed the Harvard UniversityCorporate Governance Executive Program. Shewas raised in Southern California and has resided inWashington, D.C., since 1990. She is a native ofMexico and is married with two boys

CATHERINE CORTEZ MASTO, CANDIDATE FOR THE 2016 U.S.SENATE ELECTION IN NEVADA

Catherine Cortez Masto has spent hercareer fighting to protect Nevada families.Cortez Masto served two terms as Nevada’sAttorney General and became known for herintegrity and leadership on behalf of Nevadafamilies, women, and seniors.

As the chief law enforcement officer ofNevada, Cortez Masto worked closely withlaw enforcement, treatment providers, andcommunity advocates to combat the use anddistribution of methamphetamines.

Staying true to her commitment toprotecting seniors, Cortez Masto created asenior protection unit in the AttorneyGeneral’s office to ensure that her investigatorsand prosecutors had the necessary tools topursue those who abuse, neglect, or exploitseniors in the communities.

A lifelong advocate for women andchildren, Cortez Masto worked to strengthenlaws preventing sex trafficking and violenceagainst women. She also took steps to protect children from sexual predators by passing newlaws that strengthened the registration and notification requirements of convicted sex offenders.

To aid middle-class families and protect consumers and homeowners, Cortez Masto createdthe Mortgage Fraud Strike Force to investigate and prosecute fraudulent foreclosurerescue and loan modification scams. And she led the fight against foreclosure fraud,securing an estimated $1.9 billion from big banks on behalf of Nevada homeowners as partof the National Mortgage Settlement.

Prior to her service as Attorney General, Cortez Masto worked as an Assistant CountyManager for Clark County, Nevada. She also served as a federal criminal prosecutor for theUnited States Attorney’s Office in Washington, D.C. and was Chief of Staff to Governor BobMiller. She currently resides in Las Vegas with her husband Paul.

Jennifer I. Rodríguez

LATINAS TODAYL E X U S P R E S E N T S

Jennifer I. Rodríguez is the president and CEO of theGreater Philadelphia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce(GPHCC). Prior to joining GPHCC, she was appointed byMayor Michael A. Nutter as the Executive Director of theMayor’s Office of Immigrant and Multicultural Affairs. Under her leadership, Philadelphia was recognized at the2014 National Immigrant Integration Conference as oneof the most immigrant-friendly cities in the country.

Rodríguez was vice president for Community Engagementand Programs at Asociación Puertorriqueños en Marcha. Asvice president of Finance at the Philadelphia IndustrialDevelopment Corporation, she managed a multi-million-dollarportfolio of economic development and business loansand investments in communities across Philadelphia,

including public financing vehicles such as, CDBG, TaxIncrement Financing and New Markets Tax Credits.

In addition to leading GPHCC, Rodríguez serves onvarious boards including the Philadelphia RedevelopmentAuthority, where she is vice chair, the Philadelphia LatinoFilm Festival, the Reading Terminal Market Corporation,and the Philadelphia Land Bank. She is also a foundingmember of GPHCC’s Latino Professional MentoringNetwork and the Greater Philadelphia Chamber ofCommerce CEO Access Network.

Born and raised in Puerto Rico, Rodríguez migrated to theU.S. in 1990 to pursue higher education. She holds a BA inBusiness Administration from Boston University and anMA in City and Regional Planning from the University ofPennsylvania. She was a 2014 Leadership for ChangeFellow at Drexel University.

LATINAStyle Vol. 22, No. 4 , 2016

LS

Catherine Cortez Masto.

Nationwide and the Nationwide N and Eagle are service marks of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. © 2016 Nationwide CPO-0833AO (08/16)

GOOD PEOPLEGREAT PEOPLE

make us a

At Nationwide, the difference is great.nationwide.com/latinastyle

Nationwide is a company of extraordinary people doing great things for our members,

each other, and our communities. Our commitment to diversity and inclusion can be seen in

every aspect of our culture, and we empower our associates to carry that commitment forward.

We are proud to be a recipient of Latina Style’s 50 Best Companies

for Latinas to Work For. Congratulations to all of the Top 50 companies!

8 LATINAStyle Vol. 22, No. 4 , 2016www.lat inasty le.com

Latinas, Be MovedGet in the driver’s seat and enjoy the rideBy Sue Mead

Are you an auto enthusiast or is your vehicle simply theride that gets you to work and the ferry for your family,the groceries, and the collection of other goods and gear that

are needed to make your life run smoothly? The pace of living isgoing faster than ever for most of us and cars for some womenare like an appliance that keeps their life rolling. Others areenthusiasts and really care about the wheels they drive. Youmight even own more than one car! I’m going to offer a challenge toall: slow down and get to know your auto. If it’s not the right one tosuit your needs and personality, find a new one. There is somethingfor everyone in today’s car market. We took a look at a few that arenew or upgraded for 2016; they’re attractive, practical, and evena bit sporty and fun. Now, it’s your turn!

2016 Toyota Camry

Redesigned last year, this midsizer 2016 Toyota Camry has betterhandling, new user-friendly controls, upgraded safety, changes

inside and out, and a bolder, more competitive look, with sport-meshgrille, LED headlamps and DRLs, 18-inch alloy wheels, and dualchrome-tipped exhaust. The roomy cabin has quality upholstery andstitching, sport seats and up to an 8-way power-adjustable heateddriver seat; and dual climate control.

A multimedia package brings Entune Premium JBL Audio withNavigation and App Suite, and includes the Entune Multimedia bundlewith a 7-inch high-res touch-screen display, AM/FM, CD player,MP3/WMA playback capability, 10 JBL GreenEdge Speakers in eightlocations including subwoofer and amplifier auxiliary audio jack, USB2.0 port with iPod connectivity and wireless charging. Trims include LE,SE, XSE, LSE, plus hybrid versions. A IIHS top safety pick + winner, ithas NHTSA’s 5-Star overall safety rating.

Engines include a 2.5-liter inline four cylinder, a 3.5 V6 that achieves268 hp. and 246 lb.-ft. of torque and the hybrid 2.5-liter 4-cylinder withEV and ECO modes; all have six-speed automatic transmissions. Fueleconomy with the V6 is rated at 21 city/31 highway/25 overall; the4-cylinder at 25/35; and hybrid at 43/39. The sport package, as well asSE and XSE trims, come with paddle shifters, while SE and XSE comewith a sport-tuned transmission; XSE has both Sport and Eco modes.

We loved the heated outside mirrors; smart key with push-button start;the steering-wheel-mounted controls, and it’s quiet and well-mannereddrive. Of note is a wide and impressive array of standard safety features,including an anti-theft alarm system, Star Safety System, with LATCHLower Anchor and Tether for children and 10 airbags.

For more information visit: http://www.toyota.com/camry/

2016 Honda Pilot

This all new eight-passenger SUV looks and feels very different from itspredecessor—and it is! It’s been redesigned and reengineered,

with fresh exterior and interior styling, many of the car world’s latestfeatures, plus increased value and improved fuel economy.

The three-row crossover raises the bar with more premium attributes, newpowertrains and the most advanced safety features ever, including theHonda Sensing suite of safety and driver-assistive technologies, with lanedeparture warning, blind-spot monitoring and lane watch, adaptive cruisecontrol, and forward-collision mitigation braking. It comes in 2WD and4WD, and five trims. Its all-new AWD system makes it capable of lightoff-roading; it can tow up to 5,000 lbs.

The base LX gets vehicle stability/traction control; rear camera,daytime running lights; ABS with electronic brake distribution andbrake assist; tire–pressure monitoring and 18-inch wheels; while the new,top-of-the-line Elite brings ventilated front seats, heated second-row seats,

9LATINAStyle Vol. 22, No. 4 , 2016 www.lat inasty le.com

heated steering wheel, a panoramic glass roof, and 20-inch wheelsand tires. Although larger and longer, it weighs less which brings betterfuel economy and improves driving dynamics.

Now sleek and narrow, with more contemporary styling andslightly muscled looks, there are sculpted panels and narrower windowopenings and it’s been smoothed to be more aerodynamic; a spoilerat the tail reduces drag.

Bold LED lighting punctuates the front and back, while a bright-chromed,three-bar grille accents the fascia. Inside is a premium cabin withsoft-touch materials, good elbow room, ergonomics and utility. Inaddition to attractive, soft-touch materials, the front console has asmartphone tray and two cup holders. A new 3.5-liter V-6 engine ismatched to a new six-speed or new nine-speed automatic.

For more information visit: http://automobiles.honda.com/pilot

2016 Chevrolet Volt

The second-generation Volt is all-new, boasting a clean and sportydesign, and seats five; it also has a re-engineered Voltec power

house for improved power and efficiency, convenience updates to thecharging systems including “Location-Based Charging”, and a newtransmission. It starts at almost $10,000 less than last year’s model!

The LT has 17-inch, five-spoke painted aluminum wheels and six-speakersound. Premier comes with 17-inch, split 5-spoke aluminum wheels;park assist; wireless charging; auto-dimming interior mirror; andheated front and rear seats, steering wheel, and exterior mirrors. Itkeeps its iconic look, but is more carved and upscale, with a grille thatopens and closes to increase airflow and aerodynamics.

The body structure is strengthened and improved for a quieter, better ride. Asimplified 120-V portable cord gets more convenient stowage in thetruck. New is a bench seat in the rear; an eight-inch screen takes theplace of a traditional gauge cluster and a second eight-inch touchscreenis the focal point of the center stack.

Equipped with standard Chevrolet MyLink with OnStar and 4G LTE, it’sa wireless hotspot. Apple CarPlay connects via USB to make calls, send andread texts, and play music with the touch of a button or with voice-activation.Along with increased use of high-strength steel, top-notch standard safetyfeatures include 10 airbags, including knee bags and a rear-viewcamera; additional features include forward collision alert, automaticbraking, lane keep assist with lane departure warning, side blind zone alertwith lane change alert, rear cross traffic alert, advanced park assist withfront and rear park assist, and a pedestrian safety signal - an automaticaudible signal that emits during low speed driving.

For more information visit: http://www.chevrolet.com/volt-electric-car.html

2016 Nissan Sentra SV

Newly refreshed, this midsized sedan has a sporty exterior redesign, aroomier interior, and additional safety and driving assistance

technologies. There are five trims; all are powered by a 1.8-literfour-cylinder engine. The Sentra S gets a six-speed manual transmission (oroptional CVT) and 16-inch steel wheels. An FE+ S edition, optimizedfor fuel efficiency, features Nissan's Xtronic CVT transmission, a specialrear spoiler, underbody aerodynamics, and low-rolling-resistance tires.

SV gets CVT transmission, intelligent key with push-button ignition,streaming audio via Bluetooth, leather-wrapped steering wheel andshift knob, Easy-Fill Tire alert, and NissanConnect with mobile apps,5.0-inch color display, and rear-view mirror.

SR adds 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels, fog lights, LED low-beamprojector headlights with LED accents, premium sport cloth, heatedfront seats, heated outside mirrors with integrated turn signals, rearspoiler with integrated LED brake light, rear disc brakes, and chromeexhaust tip finisher.

Top-of-the-line SL adds leather-appointed seats, dual-zone automatictemperature control, auto-dimming mirror with HomeLink, NissanConnectwith navigation and 5.8-inch color touch-screen, blind spot warningand rear cross traffic alert. Outside is revised front fascia, grille,fenders, hood, and signature boomerang-shaped headlights up front,and restyled fascia and boomerang-shaped taillights in the back. Inside is aredesigned steering wheel, a high-resolution TFT-type LCD flat panelinstrument display, a 5.0-inch Advanced Drive-Assist display and SiriEyes Free.

The roomy interior boasts 95.9 cubic feet of passenger volume,while the large trunk can hold more than 15 cubic feet of cargo.Additional features include tilt/telescopic steering column, powerwindows with driver’s one-touch auto up/down and auto reverse,power door locks with auto locking feature, remote keyless entry,and remote trunk and fuel-filler door releases.

For more information visit:http://www.nissanusa.com/cars/sentra/versions-specs/version.sv.html

New Carsin Town for Latinas


Want to comment or have any questions on this article? Email us [email protected]

This summer, LATINA Style took a drive in two of thenewest models in the market. They are comfortable,

fuel efficient, with great features and a great feel. Seewhat they have to offer and check them out for a ride.

Kia Optima SX Turbo

The Kia Optima SX Turbo provides a great quality of ride,safety, comfort and capacity, fuel efficiency, kid-friendly features,reliability and interior and exterior workmanship.

The newest Optima is roomier, more luxurious cabin featuresan impressive level of craftsmanship that will come standardacross five trim levels – LX, LX 1.6T, EX, SX and SXL. Its interior islarger and more comfortable with an innovative and functionalcabin that is well-appointed with class-up touches. The 2016Optima also offers a height-adjustable front passenger seat, afeature normally found only in premium vehicles.

Kia’s connectivity system, UVO2, comes standard with fouradditional eServices not previously available on Optima: Geo-fencing,Speed Alert, Curfew Alert and Driving Score3.

Also available is the Harman/Kardon QuantumLogic™7 PremiumSurround Sound Audio System8, which includes 10 speakers, Clari-Fi™7technology and an upgraded 630-watt digital amplifier.

All new for the 2016 model is a 1.6-liter four-cylinder turbo engine.The 1.6-liter will be offered on the LX trim. Pushing out 178 horsepower at5,500 rpm and a stout 195 lb.-ft. of torque at just 1,500 rpm, thenew engine mates to a seven-speed DCT, a first for the Kia brand. Thetransmission optimizes the engine’s responsiveness for a sporty feel thatdoesn’t sacrifice fuel economy.

For more information visit: http://www.kia.com/us/en/vehicle/optima/2016

Mazda CX-9 Signature AWD

Ready for an elegant vehicle with an upscale interior and fueleconomy? Look no further than the Mazda CX-9 Signature AWD. Theall-new 2016 Mazda CX-9 midsize, three-row crossover SUV offers apremium experience, fun-to-drive handling dynamics and boldKODO—Soul of Motion design at a starting MSRP from $31,520.

The CX-9 Signature is at the top of the line with its i-ACTIV all-wheeldrive—a system that uses 27 sensors, measuring conditions morethan 200 times per second to determine how to allocate power toeach wheel as to minimize ever feeling the wheels slip.

Its interior is embellished with Auburn-colored Nappa leather,rosewood supplied by Japanese guitar-maker Fujigen. Enjoy the LEDsignature accent grille lighting and LED accent lighting around theautomatic shifter.

All models come powered by Mazda’s new turbocharged SKYACTIV-G2.5T engine, which generates a 310 lb-ft of torque from just 2,000 rpmon either 87- or 93-octane gasoline. It also produces 250 horsepower on93-octane gasoline (227 horsepower on 87-octane) and netsclass-leading 2 EPA-estimated fuel-economy ratings on eithergasoline grade—22 mpg city/28 mpg highway/25 mpg combinedin front-wheel-drive configuration.

That engine is paired with a standard SKYACTIV-DRIVE six-speedautomatic and is available in front-wheel drive or i-ACTIV all-wheel drive.

For more information visit: http://insidemazda.mazdausa.com LS

By Robert Bard

We’re a proud supporter of Latina Style 50

and honored to be named one of the ‘Best Companies

for Latinas to Work for’

www.fcagroupcareers.comwww.fcagroupcareers.com

©2015 FCA US LLC. All Rights Reserved. Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram, Mopar and SRT are registered trademarks of FCA US LLC. ALFA ROMEO and FIAT are registered trademarks of FCA Group Marketing S.p.A., used with permission.

Equal Opportunity Employer Minorities/Women/Protected Veterans/Disabled/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity

6

By Christine Bolanos

When many people think of leaders and innovators in ScienceTechnology-Engineering-Mathematics or STEM fields, they don't tend to picture a woman or a Latina. But an increasing

number of women are kicking that stereotype to the curb and proving they have what it takes to lead the world into the next stage of these disciplines. In doing so, they are changing the face of their industries, communities, and in some cases, even the world.

Sandra Rivera, vice president at Intel Corporation; Marjorie Blanco, software engineer at The Boeing Company; and Rebecca Garcia, program manager within Civic Tech & Innovation for Tech Jobs Academy at Microsoft and co-founder of nonprofit CoderDojo NYC, are three women who are re-defining the role of Latinas in STEM. They raise the bar, inspire younger gerrerations who want to follow in their footsteps and stop at nothing to make the world a be tter place. They use every setback as fuel to get back up on their feet toward their mission to greatness.

Sandra Rivera Vice President, Data Center Group General Manager, Network Platforms Group Intel Corporation

Sandra Rivera is an inspiration to many Latinas in STEM as vice president in the Data Center Group and general manager of the Network Platforms Group at Intel Corporation. She is responsible for the Intel business group called to provide innovative technology and solutions to the networking industry.

"We built the infrastructure that connects the world," Rivera says. "We are responsible for all the connectivity that makes your life easier, more convenient and more connected to your family, friends and your work."

Her team, she shares, is responsible for all of the fabric required to connect someone from their phone, PC, TV or tablet to all of the content or all of the people they want access to.

"It's an awesome responsibility, it's inspiring," Rivera says. "It's a huge undertaking but we have such a team that is committed to this connected world where we're bringing this rich experience that makes it such a furr role at Intel."

The proud Latina explains that her parents and culture instilled in her the value of relationships, collaboration, teamwork, strong work ethic, prioritizing and hard work.

"They taught me to really establish what's most important and to live your priorities and having integrity and authenticity in everything they do," says the daughter of Colombian immigrants.

Her father inspired a love of learning that translated into Rivera's love for math and science. Her innate nature to be a problem solver and apply creativity drew her to STEM as well as the practicality of pursuing a discipline that would be valued in the job market.

"You'll do your best work when you're inspired, energized and excited about the work that you do," she advises.

The barriers she has overcome as a woman and as a Latina has only made her stronger. "Particularly when you're starting out, you're not being taken seriously and not being given the benefit of the doubt," Rivera says. It became her goal to always raise and exceed the bar.

At Intel, Rivera enjoys the brilliant people she works and collaborates with the most.

"It's a learning organization and it's my nature to be a learner," she shares.

According to Rivera, Intel is committed to fostering professional growth in its employee through mentors, coaches and sponsors.

"There's a sense of communi~:~nd we have what is a very big company~ Rivera says. "We turn it into smaller communities where you have the opportunity to engage with individuals that may have similar backgrounds or different perspectives. Even within those communities, there is also a place where we can learn, share and grow."

LATIHAS'tyleval. 22, No.4, 2016

OTISPRATT & WHITNEYUTC AEROSPACE SYSTEMSUTC CLIMATE, CONTROLS & SECURITYUNITED TECHNOLOGIES RESEARCH CENTER

At United Technologies, we believe that diversity and inclusion in our business and in leadership fosters open minds, differing perspectives and a willingness to welcome new ideas – the kind that drive the innovation we need to create new products and to deliver the best solutions for our customers and for the marketplace.

We are committed to developing the full talents of our entire workforce to ensure that women don’t just strive but thrive as leaders.

www.utc.com/careers

Proud to be recognized among the Latina Style 50. Congratulations to all honorees.

Leaders

Rivera earned the Intel AchievementAward for helping transform thetelecommunications industry. An awardshe believes is a team award.

She serves on the Intel Hispanic LeadershipCouncil and previously co-founded andserved as president of The CTI Authority,a computer telephony distributor.

“I am an internal optimist,” she shares.“I do believe life is a choice and I alwayschoose happy.”

Marjorie BlancoSoftware EngineerEngineering OperationsThe Boeing Company

When Marjorie Blanco arrived in the

United States from Nicaragua she was onlya young girl with big dreams.

“Imagine, a simple girl from the poorestcountry in Central America working alongthe greatest minds in STEM,” she says.

Fast forward to today and Blanco isamong the elite few who can say they haveworked at NASA Mission Control Centerand The Boeing Company to make astronauts’trips to space as safe as possible.

The daughter of an accountant and anengineer, her parents taught her the valueof hard work and determination.

“He (Blanco’s father) would actuallytake me to his office and let me play withall of his engineering notebooks andrulers,” Blanco shares.

She recalls getting her first “huge, gigantic”laptop which drove her to develop software.

“What really led me into it was the problemsolving aspects of it,” Blanco says, whoswitched out medicine to pursue engineering.

Today, Blanco is a software engineer inEngineer Operations in Puget Sound,where she works as a project manager.

“What we’re trying to do is deliver goodquality airplanes that arrive on time so itcosts less,” Blanco adds. “Our customersare demanding that of us. So we’re developingsoftware to meet that business goal.”

In her role, Blanco leads and supportsinitiatives that engage business units,organizations and programs.

“The software tool that I manage hasfinance-approved benefits in the billion-dollarrange, numerous patents and awards,” sheexplains. “This software tool impacts thecompany bottom line.”

Blanco began her career with The BoeingCompany in 2008 where she worked assoftware engineer for the InternationalSpace Station in Houston, Texas. Beforejoining Boeing, Blanco worked as a softwaredeveloper at NASA Mission Control Center.

“Not only did I work for NASA MissionControl Center but on the space shuttleand international space station,” Blanco says.

She remembers she didn’t immediatelyrealize she had been working with astronautsbecause they wore civilian clothing atprior meetings.

“Astronauts and flight controllerswere my co-workers, how cool is that,”Blanco exclaims.

While working at the space station, Blancowas responsible for keeping astronauts safe.

“I was the sub-system owner for thesoftware system that notified astronauts ifthere was a fire, rapid depress or toxicatmosphere,” she says. That emphasis onsafety is just as strong at Boeing.

According to Blanco, an everyday goalis no casualties and no accidents. Boeinghas an open-door policy where employeescan share ideas and work collaborativelyin a diverse environment.

There is a rich array of resources includingBoeing Women in Leadership and BoeingHispanic Employee Network which offersnetworking opportunities, communityservice and a family away from home.Blanco takes advantage of these resources aswell as those offered by The Society ofHispanic Professional Engineers.

“Women bring a different point ofview,” says the multi-award winningprofessional, including the first everSHPE award given to a female at Boeing.“Don’t be afraid of taking risks. Don’t letyour fears push you back.”


Rebecca GarciaCo-Founder, CoderDojo NYCGeekGirlWebMicrosoft, Program Manager, Civic Tech & Innovation Academy, Tech Jobs Academy

At only 22 years old, Rebecca Garcia wasnamed a 2013 White House ‘Champion ofChange’ for her work serving underrepresentedyouth and women through her non-profitCoderDojo NYC. She was named as one ofGlamour Magazine’s ’35 Women Under 35Who Are Changing the Tech Industry’ in2015, AskMen’s ‘Top 99 OutstandingWomen’ in 2015 and the 2016 Hispanicize’sSTEM Star.

She also runs GeekGirlWeb, a space toshare resources on learning code, personalbranding techniques and career buildingthrough technology and most recentlyjoined Microsoft as program managerwithin Civic Tech & Innovation for TechJobs Academy.

The first-generation Mexican-FilipinoAmerican keeps busy but she would nothave it any other way.

“My mother actually ran a nonprofitgeared toward the Hispanic community,”Garcia shares. “Being able to see how shewas able to help a lot of other people in ourlocal community was definitely influential.”

Her mother instilled in her that drive toserve her community through nonprofits.She does not allow workplace discriminationto faze her and prefers to focus instead on

positivity and progress in the workplacewhen it comes to minorities and women.

Perhaps her greatest source of pride isCoderDojo NYC which she co-founded in2012. It is one chapter within 1,000-pluslocated in more than 60 countries. Shedescribes it as a “global movement,”geared at teaching web, game and applicationdevelopment to youth ages 7 to 17.

“The idea is that all of our workshopsand events are free to the Greater New YorkCity area,” Garcia explains. Youth in Brooklyn,the Bronx, Manhattan, Queens and beyondhave an opportunity to take advantage of theresources the organization offers.

“There are 1,200 youth that come throughour program annually,” she says, addingthat many of the events are held in publiclibraries. “The idea is to teach STEM, orSTEAM, in a collaborative environment. Itallows youth to have access to technologyeducation. Our goal is not for them to becomedevelopers but have access to technologyeducation at an early age. That way, lateron, they have the tools to create whatever itis they want to build.”

The 25-year-old says CoderDojo NYCignited interest in STEM and technology inyouth that has driven them to create their

own applications and even earned nationalspotlight from the likes of Apple, Inc.

“We aim for a ratio of one mentor/volunteerto one kid where they’re able to learn in ahands-on way,” Garcia says. “There’s nograde or quizzes, with the idea they cantake away what they learn and continueworking on it later on. It’s project-based.Learning alongside other kids who arepassionate and creative I think is a reallygreat experience.”

GeekGirlWeb is another endeavorGarcia is particularly proud of. She taughtherself how to code because she enjoyedbuilding things.

“I definitely encourage everyone to usetechnology at their advantage and to seeit as part of their skills they can use intheir career.”

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LATINA Style, Inc. hosted its award winning program, the LATINA StyleBusiness Series, in Seattle, Wash. on May 26 at the Renaissance SeattleHotel. Sponsored by Nationwide, over 200 Latinas and professionalwomen gathered to network, learn about business ownership, and receiveeducational leadership empowerment from elite community leaders.

The day kicked-off with an energetic networking breakfastamong exhibitors, partners, and artist such as Blanca SantanderStudio. Mistress of ceremonies, news anchor, reporter of UnivisionSeattle, Paula Lamas introduced and welcomed on stage Mayor Ed.Murray to deliver the official welcoming remarks.

“Today’s economy is driven by entrepreneurship and increasinglyby women entrepreneurs and Latina businesswomen,” Mayor EdMurray said. “Whether it is a start-up, a fitness center, or aneighborhood restaurant – the City of Seattle is committed toensuring women entrepreneurs have the support they need toachieve success. When women succeed – and when women ofcolor succeed – they create success and economic opportunityfor everyone.”

The first workshop, Accessing Capital: Building Strong Businesses,was moderated by Aracely Godinez, CPA, MBA, internal auditor,office internal governance, the Boeing Company, and president ofALPFA Seattle chapter. Speakers included: Nancy R. Porzio, districtdirector, Seattle U.S. Small Business Administration; and Erica Erdozain,vice president commercial lending, Seattle Metropolitan Credit Union.

The second panel, Enhancing Women Businesses throughTechnology & Social Media, was conducted by Tere Carral, CEOand founder, Bridge Latino. Panelists included: Amalia Martino,co-founder, principal and CEO, Revel Creative Group; PatriciaCarrion Moras, CEO and co-founder, Utopia Media & Entertainment,LLC; and Michelle Marie Font, bilingual outreach coordinator,Make-A-Wish® Alaska and Washington.

The flagship panel, LATINA Style Entrepreneurs Roundtable:Lessons Learned, moderated by Carolina Montibelli-Hajny MSF,SSPS, CEO, IBC practitioner, Kolbe certified, and Seattle NSHMBApresident included panelists: Maria Barrientos, principal, BarrientosLLC; Adriana Medina, owner & president, Fuerte Fitness; and DianneM. Segura, M.P.A., owner, Segue Enterprises.

“The Latina power was in full force in Seattle,” said Anna MariaArias entrepreneur honoree and U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerceawardee Dianne Segura. “Thank you LATINA Style for bringing theBusiness Series’ conversation to the Pacific Northwest. It was a pleasureand complete delight to share the lessons learned as an entrepreneurwith local Latinas… fight the power mujeres.”

LATINA StyleBusiness Series, SeattleBy Tania G. DavilaPhotos by Mel Ponder Photography

(L-R) Richard Romero, president and CEO, Seattle Metropolitan Credit Union;M. Lorena González, Councilmember, Seattle City Council; Dr. Sandra E. Madrid,Ph.D.; Adriana Medina, president and owner, Fuerte Fitness; and Lory Burgos,

Lory Burgos Sr. consultant, multicultural marketing, Nationwide.

(L-R) Paula Lamas, news anchor, reporter, producer, Univision Seattle; MayorEd. Murray, City of Seattle; Veronica Quintero, reporter, anchor, KNDU-TV; and

Robert E. Bard, president & CEO, LATINA Style, Inc.


(L-R) Nancy R. Porzio, district director, U.S. SmallBusiness Administration; Erica Erdozain, vice president,

commercial lending, Seattle Metropolitan CreditUnion; and, Aracely Godinez, CPA, MBA, president

of ALPFA Seattle, internal auditor, office internalgovernance, The Boeing Company.

(L-R) Patricia Carrion Moras, CEO and co-founder,Utopia Media & Entertainment, LLC; Tere Carral,CEO and founder, Bridge Latino; Michelle Marie

Font, bilingual outreach coordinator, Make-A-Wish®Alaska and Washington; and Amalia Martino,

co-founder, principal & CEO, Revel Creative Group.

(L-R) Maria Barrientos, principal, Barrientos LLC;Dianne M. Segura, M.P.A., owner, Segue Enterprises;

Carolina Montibelli-Hajny MSF, SSPS, CEO, IBCPractitioner, Kolbe Certified, Seattle NSHMBA

president; and Adriana Medina, owner & president, Fuerte Fitness.

(L-R) Richard Romero,president and CEO, SeattleMetropolitan Credit Union;

Dr. Sandra E. Madrid,Ph.D.; M. Lorena González,

Councilmember, SeattleCity Council; AdrianaMedina, president and

owner, Fuerte Fitness; andVeronica Quintero, reporter,

anchor, KNDU-TV.

Special thanks to our sponsors,partners and supporters.

LATINA Style is thrilled to count on Nationwide'scontinued support as title sponsor of the series.Platinum Sponsor: Seattle Metropolitan CreditUnion. National Partners: SCORE, ALPFA,NAWBO, WIPP, NALEO, WBENC, WPO, andCapitalWirePR. Community Partners: La Razadel Noroeste, Actitud Latina, ALPFA Seattle,Bellevue College Foundation, Business ImpactNW, El Centro La Raza, El Mundo Newspaper,Girl Scouts of Western Washington, Latino CityEmployees, LULAC WA, NSHMBA Seattle, OYEMedia Productions, SCORE Seattle, SHPE,

During the awards luncheon, Seattle City Councilmember M.Lorena González, delivered the keynote message. “In Washington,the purchasing power of Latinos and Latinas is $18.3 billion! Butwe aren’t just spending money, we are making it too: revenuegenerated by Latino-owned businesses was nearly $10 billion in2007 and Latino-owned business employed over 23,000 peoplestatewide of all female business owners in the U.S., Latinas arethe fastest growing group,” shared Council Member González.Also, the business series counted on the presence of VeronicaQuintero, news reporter, KNDO/KNDU Television, as the mistressof ceremonies for the luncheon.

LATINA Style honored Adriana Medina, president and owner ofFuerte Fitness, as the LATINA Style Entrepreneur of the Year forSeattle, WA. This award is presented to Latinas who demonstratethe core values of entrepreneurship. A fitness industry veteran,Medina founded her business in 2007 in Wallingford, WA. Medinabelieves that personal fitness isn't just something you do in themorning, during lunch, or on your way home from work; it's away of life.

“It was an honor to have been recognized by LATINA Style,sometimes you are just so busy running your business that it's niceto reassess, to celebrate your victories, and share the lessonslearned; like in this occasion,” Medina shared. “I felt empowerednot only as a Latina but as a woman at the event along with thespeakers that I met and women in the audience. It's nice to meetothers like me, to not feel so alone.”

Co-chairing the Business Series were Dr. Sandra E. Madrid,PhD., University of Washington, and Richard Romero, presidentand CEO, Seattle Metropolitan Credit Union. Dr. Madrid is serving

part-time as Special Assistant to the Vice President for MinorityAffairs and Vice Provost for Diversity at the University of Washington.

“It was my distinct honor to serve as co-chair of the Business Seriesin Seattle,” Dr. Madrid shared. “LATINA Style equipped Latinas inWashington State with skills and financial tools to learn strategiesto empower women starting a small business or enhancing theircurrent enterprise. Latinas have and will continue to make a markas stellar entrepreneurs. Latina business owners have the innate skillsand are driven, passionate, decisive, confident, efficient and energetic.It was evident by the attendees of the business series. Congratulationsto the LATINA Style Business Series in making a difference toso many which in turn makes our country more vibrant and theopportunity to celebrate being a Latina business owner!” LS

(L-R) Michelle Marie Font and Ramon Jones, regionalvice president, western regional operations, Nationwide.

Women of Wisdom, YWCA, and Seattle Latino FilmFestival. Contributors: Beto Yarce; BlancaSantander; Cameron A. Williams; HeavyRestaurant Group; K Public Relations, Inc.; MarthaMontoya; Teresa Jones; and thank you to allspeakers and presenters that contributed theirtime and support our business series conference.

Thanks to our Co-chairs: Elaine Miceli-Vasquez, owner, El Heraldo de Broward,owner of We Do Events, Liliam M. Lopez, president& CEO, South Florida Hispanic Chamber of Commerceand, Carlos Orta, vice president, Corporate Affairs,Carnival Corporations & plc.


Hailed as one of the country’s most diverse communities with ahealthy economy, it is no surprise Latina entrepreneurs are

choosing to set up shop in Seattle, Wash. From urban developmentfirms to fitness centers, these Latinas think outside the box, takeownership of their finances and futures, while leaving their mark inthe emerald city.


“We see many family-owned businesseswhere several members of the family areinvolved,” says Nancy Porzio, district directorfor the Small Business Administration’sSeattle office. “It’s really pleasing to seethat kind of attitude.”

Hispanics are the second largest growingdemographic in the area and the ones who

Passionate about civic engagement issuesand community-based organizations,Barrientos found a unique niche in Seattlewhere she develops only in the denseneighborhoods surrounding downtown.Barrientos started her own firm after noticinghow male-dominated a prior company sheworked for was. She realized as the onlywoman at that firm, she was bringing in asubstantial amount of revenue, and the menwere taking most of the credit.

“I think we’re more empathetic and socialaware of issues around us,” Barrientos saysof what makes Latina business ownersstand out. “We’re more thoughtful, we listenbetter and try to be problem solvers.”

By Christine Bolaños

choose to open a business that tend to begrounded and customer-service oriented.

According to SBA data, the number ofloans granted to Hispanic-owned businessowners has risen nearly every year goingback to fiscal year 2009. That year,Latino-owned businesses received $364.24million in loan assistance. By fiscal year2015, these business owners were approvedfor as much as $1.36 billion in loans.

According to Porzio, the SBA is focusedon providing more resources and supportto underserved communities.

“Some of the success we’ve seen isprimarily in the service industry, whichcan be anywhere from personal services tofood services to landscape service andconstruction,” Porzio shares.

The SBA is sensitive to the needs of languagebarriers, providing more Spanish-languagematerial that is in demand, bringing ininterpreters as needed and changing itsfocus to be more customer-focused and goinginto the community.

Maria Barrientos, a managing partner atBarrientos, LLC, a project management,development and real estate firm, hassuccessfully managed development ofmore than 30 mixed-use housing projectstotaling more than $1 billion worth of realestate development projects in Seattle.

Nancy Porzio, district director for the SmallBusiness Administration’s Seattle office.

Maria Barrientos, managing partner at Barrientos, LLC.

Latina EntrepreneursMake their Mark in Seattle


Adriana Medina runs her very own gym,Fuerte Fitness, in the Seattle area. She saysshe wanted an inside location to work withher clients and classes. Medina also wanted aplace where people could meet and talkabout their victories and challenges whentrying to change their lifestyles.

“I wanted to create a platform where youdidn’t have to ‘stand alone’ when yourworkplace or family wasn’t ready tochange their lifestyle,” Medina says.

Fuerte Fitness has earned numerousaccolades which Medina credits to thesense of community it has built.

“We have cooking classes, hiking dates,events that bring us together,” she adds.“I’m seeing that it’s not necessarily just aphysical place. But a community whereyou meet at many different places or onlineand have communication or dialog with theright people.”

Tere Carral is founder and CEO ofBridge Latino, a multicultural marketingand advertising agency, based in Seattle.Through her professional experience, shehas witnessed firsthand the impact ofHispanic-focused agencies, which aremostly owned and operated by women.Today she attributes her firm’s growth tofocusing on the area’s needs.

Carral recommends Latina entrepreneurstake advantage of Ventures, a nonprofitthat provides businesses with training;the SBA, the Washington State Office ofMinority & Women’s Business Enterprisesor the King County Small BusinessCertification Program.

“We have the amazing Casa Latina thathas courses and a way for people to getstarted and generating income,” Carraladds. “We are also in the process ofstarting a group of support for Latinaentrepreneurs, where we can coach eachother and give advice whenever needed.”

Patty Carrion Moras is an entrepreneurand professional musician who decided tobecome a business owner after the musicscene in Seattle came to a near halt in2001. She made the leap into video andaudio production in 2005 by co-foundingUTOPIA Media & Entertainment, LLC.

She works to build bridges of appreciationand understanding between American andLatino cultures. One example came in 2009,when Carrion Moras was elected co-chair ofnonprofit Mujeres of the Northwest, focusedon leadership development of Latinas.

Adriana Medina, owner, Fuerte Fitness.

Tere Carral, founder and CEO of Bridge Latino.

Patty Carrion Moras, entrepreneur and professional musician.

Lorena Gonzalez, Seattle Councilmember.

“In my native country, Mexico, many ofus are taught to be creative thinkers due tothe lack of opportunities,” she says. “Welearn to find different angles to solve aproblem, or to meet our needs. And that’swhat I did; I found a different way to meetmy need to work in the arts, and to make aprofit out of it.”

As the first Hispanic ever elected toSeattle City Council, Lorena Gonzalezworks to represent the Latino communityin the best way she can.

“Seeing Latina faces in leadershipsends a strong and clear message toyoung Latinas,” Gonzalez shares, “thatthey are valuable and can be successful.You can’t underestimate the effect thatseeing Latinas as entrepreneurs has onyour community through the City of Seattle.”

She hears from entrepreneurs who aredrawn to Seattle because of its boomingeconomy. There is an especially high needfor services, ranging from coffee shops, totechnology start-ups to fitness centers. ForGonzalez, Seattle is a prime place for Latinaentrepreneurs to grow their businesses.

“Those type of business industries aregrowing at an exponentially fast rate in ourcity,” Gonzalez says. “I feel the customerbase here is looking to connect with Latinabusiness owners and get their services ---from a valued diversity perspective, butalso from the reality that we are seeing thepopulation grow within our city.”

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LS


Latinas at Comerica Bank not only hold top positions, but they embrace the company’scultu re of employee resources and support, specifically those aimed at Latinas and women.The bank operates primarily in five states across the U.S. and has three female marketpresidents, two of whom are Latinas.

Comerica Bank has 16 different Employee Network Resource Groups, including HispanicAmbassadors, Diversity Councils and Women’s Forum, that assist employees withmentoring, career development, networking and community outreach. If other banksfollow suit, it may pave the way for more Latina executives in the banking industry.

Annette G. MusaArizona Market PresidentRegional Manager, Wealth ManagementComerica Bank

Years ago, Annette G. Musa was only one of thefew woman of color in the male-dominatedfinance industry. Today, she is still among theminority, but is working within her companyand the community to transform the industryinto one that embraces the potential of Latinasin all kinds of roles, including those withhigh-stakes and leadership responsibilities.

As Arizona Market President and RegionalManager for Wealth Management at ComericaBank, Musa leads the Arizona ManagementCouncil and supports the bank’s customerinitiatives and overall business and communitydevelopment efforts in retail, business andwealth management.

“You’re really not sure whether you shouldtalk about that, celebrate that or just try andfit in because you want to make sure you arepart of the group,” she says, noting how differentshe felt from her colleagues at the start ofher career.

Her Latina roots instilled in her the importanceof being sociable, which helped her stand outin other ways besides her ethnicity or gender.

“That type of outgoingness, friendlinessand warmth is important when you’re dealingwith customers or clients,” Musa shares.“Especially in this industry. You want peopleto be able to relate to you and bond to you.”

As the years went on, Musa proved herfinance skills not only to her colleagues butto herself.

“Later in life, you start to feel more secure,you celebrate and you talk a little bit moreabout who you are and where you comefrom,” she states.

Born and raised in Omaha, Neb., to a motherwho immigrated from Mexico and to a Texanfather with parents who hailed from Mexico,Musa had to get acclimated to a new cultureand language.

She has spent a great part of her life as aPhoenix, Ariz., resident where she is activelyinvolved with the community.

With more than 30 years of wealth

Latina Executives at Comerica BankSet Tone for Future in Banking

By Christine Bolaños

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management experience, including 25 yearsin the Phoenix and Scottsdale area, Musa’sjourney in the finance industry happened bychance when she searched for a part-time jobas a college student. She began working at abrokerage firm and became fascinated withthe intricacies of finance.

“I was going to be a newscaster or journalistbut brokerage caught my attention because itwas quick and always changing,” Musa says.

Later on, Musa wanted to help pioneer anew branch in banking that is known todayas wealth management.

She completed stints at Wells Fargo and JPMorgan before joining Comerica.

“In the Arizona market, the wealthmanagement market became one of the mostsuccessful areas of growth and profitability,”she states.

In her current role, Musa manages andoversees growth and development of wealthmanagement including investment, privatebanking, planning and managing employeesto success. She also makes marketing andcommunity development decisions.

Musa is passionate about her work withorganizations such as Phoenix Art Museumand Fresh Start Women’s Organization.

“That’s another thing about Comericathat’s really great,” she shares. “They wantvolunteers to provide for their community.”

Angela MastrofrancescoFlorida Region PresidentRegional Manager, Wealth ManagementComerica Bank

Angela Mastrofrancesco arrived in theUnited States with her parents at the tenderage of 10 with nothing to their names but theclothes on their backs. She recalls how herbeloved uncle was scheduled to meet them atthe airport but he never showed up.

“We found out he was very ill,” Mastrofrancescoshares. “Shortly after that, I got involved withhandling his finances and settling his estate.Unfortunately, he died shortly after that.”

That was the Cuban native’s first introductionto finance, a concept that intrigued her, andshe made it her lifelong career.

“I was the only one who spoke a little bitof English,” Mastrofrancesco points out.Soon, she was translating information to herparents and her uncle’s surviving spouse.

“I was having to deal with credit cardcompanies and closing bank accounts at thatage,” she recalls.

Today, she is Florida Region Presidentand Regional Manager of Wealth Managementat Comerica Bank.

Mastrofrancesco credits her unrelentingwork ethic to her family, particularly her dad,who did whatever he had to do to providefor his family.

She has spent her entire banking career atComerica Bank, where she has worked herway up the corporate ladder for 30 years.

She began as executive assistant to theexecutive who ran the trust departmentwithin the bank, then transitioned to trustofficer where she was a relationship manager,followed by a move into management ashead of the trust department. Ultimately,she became regional manager and thenmarket president.

Mastrofrancesco credits Comerica forits support of her professional developmentincluding allowing her time away to attendFlorida Bankers Association TrustSchool Program.

Though she never felt her ethnicity or genderhindered her career success, Mastrofrancescodidn’t realize how male-dominated thefinance industry was until she becameinvolved with the Florida Bankers Association.That realization only fueled her urge to takeadvantage of every opportunity that cameher way.

“My word is very, very important,”Mastrofrancesco says. “If I say I’m going todo something I follow through.”

She is a team player and works side-by-sidewith colleagues.

As regional manager, Mastrofrancesco isresponsible for sales and marketing for Florida,where she works with other business unitmanagers to make sure goals are met. Asmarket manager, she is the face of the bankout in the community.

“One of the pillars of Comerica is to beinvolved in the community,” Mastrofrancescoshares. She has served the community via theWeston Philharmonic Society, the NSUPlanned Giving Council, the West BrowardEstate Planning Council and the AmericanLung Association.

Mastrofrancesco was named the 2011 BusinessWoman of the Year and the 2013 Trust Bankerof the Year by the Florida Bankers Association.

“Here at this market we’re like a family,” shesays, adding that Latinas pursuing businesscareers should be unafraid to step up and goafter what they want.


LSWant to comment or have any questions on this article? Email us at [email protected]

Our employees are helping to make real differences in peoples’ lives. Together, they’re turning innovative ideas into reality that will affect the way health care coverage is delivered across New Jersey. Their commitment to bettering communities throughout the state is also a refl ectionof Horizon itself. We strive for work/life balance, professional development and diversity. These policies have consistently earned Horizon BCBSNJ national recognition as a top employer in New Jersey and we look forward to where it’s taking us as a company dedicated toNew Jersey’s future.

Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. The Blue Cross® and Blue Shield® names and symbols are registered marks of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. The Horizon® name and symbols are registered marks of Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey. © 2016 Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey. Three Penn Plaza East, Newark, New Jersey 07105.

Careers.HorizonBlue.com

“ I like being the one who gives someone the hope that it’s going to be okay.”


It was 19 years ago when Anna Maria Arias, founder of LATINA Style Magazine,was inspired to recognize Latinas across the country after she saw the gaps betweenopportunities. With the assistance of the U.S. Department of Labor, the U.S. Equal

Employment Opportunity Commission, and national Hispanic organizations, theLATINA Style 50 Survey was created. The survey has evolved over the years to ensuremore opportunities are taken into consideration for Latinas.

This year more companies participated in the LATINA Style 50 report than before. This is dueto the impact Latinas are making not only at the companies they work for but in the world. Theyare known for their hard work and loyalty, and companies are recognizing the value of it morethan ever. With the ever-increasing Latina population, more opportunities are opening in thehigh-ranking positions. This is a result of Latinas who have supported and developed a pipelinefor those starting a career.

LATINA Style is proud to recognize companies that support programs that encourage training,mentorship, and promote Latinas within the company. The LATINA Style 50 report is a reflection ofthose programs that Latinas are looking for when seeking job opportunities. Today, companiesthat have generated more opportunities for Latinas are listed in the LATINA Style top 50 bestcompanies for Latinas to work for in the U.S.

One of the companies that demonstrate faithfulness to the Latino community is MarriottInternational, Inc. The company evolves with the mission to encourage the Latino workforce andopen more opportunities for the community. This is why over the years Marriott International,Inc. has ranked as the top company for Latinas to work for. Today, LATINA Style honors MarriottInternational, Inc. as the 2016 LATINA Style company of the year. Congratulations!

By Reyna Sanchez

Brenda Durham Executive Vice President

The 2016 LATINA Style 50Special Report

1. Marriott International, Inc.

1. Comcast NBCUniversal Brenda Durham, Senior Vice President & RegionalGeneral Counsel for Marriott International, Inc.,serves as primary legal counsel for Marriott’shotels and resorts located throughout theCaribbean and Latina America (CALA). In thiscapacity she provides guidance to Marriott’s lawdepartment group supporting the region. As partof CALA’s senior leadership, Durham plays anactive role shaping the strategic objectives for theregion. She leads the region’s Owner & FranchiseeTeam, which is charged with overseeing theprocess for evaluating and addressing owner andfranchisee feedback, insight and guidance.

Durham joined Marriott in 1999 and is Marriott’ssenior ranking Latina. Durham has a comprehensivepractice that includes (i) negotiating financial, equity,and management agreement transactions, (ii)hotel owner relationship development and disputeresolution, (iii) oversight for Marriott’s internationalglobal safety and security matters, (iv) support forasset management transactions, and (v) participationon Marriott’s Human Rights Committee.

In prior roles, Durham served as the primarylegal counsel supervising Marriott’s law departmentgroup for international global operations providingcounsel and oversight to attorneys supporting AsiaPacific, Middle East Africa and the United Kingdom.She also led legal support for the integration ofthe AC by Marriott branded hotels located in Spainafter Marriott acquired the AC Hotel brand in2011. Durham is a passionate advocate of Marriott’sdiversity and inclusion programs. Most recently,in 2015, she participated as a panel member atthe CEO Summit of the Americas speaking aboutWomen’s Economic Empowerment.

Marriott International, Inc.

Company of the Year!

www.marriott.com

www.comcast.com

www.att.com

www.accenture.com

www.jnj.com

www.prudential.com

www.corporate.walmart.com

www.gm.com

www.utc.com

www.intel.com

www.pepsico.com

www.fcanorthamerica.com

www.wellsfargo.com

www.newyorklife.com

www.sodexousa.com

www.bankofamerica.com

www.colgatepalmolive.com

www.wyn.com

www.horizonblue.com

www.nationwide.com

www.kp.org

www.ibm.org

www.morganstanley.com/diversity

www.chase.com

www.comerica.com

Marriott International, Inc.Bethesda, MD

Comcast NBCUniversalPhiladelphia, PA

AT&TDallas, TX

AccentureNew York, NY

Johnson & Johnson New Brunswick, NJ

Prudential FinancialNewark, NJ

Wal-Mart Stores Inc. Bentonville, AR

General Motors Company Detroit, MI

United Technologies Corporation Farmington, CT

Intel Corporation Santa Clara, CA

PepsiCo Purchase, NY

Fiat Chrysler Automobiles Auburn Hills, MI

Wells Fargo & CompanySan Francisco, CA

New York Life Insurance New York, NY

Sodexo, Inc. Gaithersburg, MD

Bank of AmericaCharlotte, NC

Colgate-PalmoliveNew York, NY

Wyndham WorldwideParsippany, NJ

Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield ofNew Jersey. Newark, NJ

NationwideColumbus, OH

Kaiser PermanenteOakland, CA

IBM CorporationArmonk, NY

Morgan Stanley New York, NY

JPMorgan Chase & Co New York, NY

Comerica BankDallas, TX

LATINAStyle Vol. 22, No. 4 , 2016www.lat inasty le.com

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The criteria above is a partial list of the criteria used to evaluate companies for the LATINA Style 50. For more details on the selection process, please visit www.latinastyle.com.

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The 2016 LATINA Style 50 • Special Report

Company Website

Whatever path to success you choose, we’ll help you pave it.

© 2016 Accenture. All rights reserved.

With the right tools and opportunities, you thrive

in the workplace. That’s why the more than

140,000 women at Accenture have access to

mentoring, networking and customized training

to help them achieve their goals. Because at

Accenture, we succeed by ensuring our people

do, too. Thank you LATINA Style, we are proud to

be recognized once again as a top company for

Latinas. Learn more at accenture.com/women

www.merck.com

www.xerox.com

www.target.com

www.hiltonworldwide.com

www.aflac.com

www.hyatt.com

www.citigroup.com

www.metlife.com

www.southwest.com

www.statefarm.com

www.jcp.com

www.aetna.com

www.usaa.com

www.rackspace.com

www.bostonscientific.com

www.ford.com

www.cvshealth.com

www.lanl.gov

www.tiaa.org

www.mynavyexchange.com

www.freddiemac.com

www.pge.com

www.coned.com

www.northerntrust.com

www.shopmyexchange.com

Merck & Co., Inc.Kenilworth, NJ

Xerox CorporationNorwalk, CT

TargetMinneapolis, MN

Hilton WorldwideMcLean, VA

Aflac Columbus, GA

Hyatt Hotels Corporation Chicago, IL

CitiNew York, NY

MetLifeNew York, NY

Southwest AirlinesDallas, TX

State FarmBloomington, IL

JCPenneyPlano, TX

AetnaHartford, CT

USAASan Antonio, TX

Rackspace HostingWindcrest, TX

Boston Scientific CorporationMarlborough, MA

Ford Motor CompanyDearborn, MI

CVS HealthWoonsocket, RI

Los Alamos National Laboratory Los Alamos, NM

TIAANew York, NY

Navy Exchange Service CompanyVirginia Beach, VA

Freddie Mac McLean, VA

Pacific Gas & Electric CompanySan Francisco, CA

Consolidated Edison, Inc.New York, NY

Northern TrustChicago, IL

The Exchange (Army and Air ForceExchange Service) Dallas, TX


The criteria above is a partial list of the criteria used to evaluate companies for the LATINA Style 50. For more details on the selection process, please visit www.latinastyle.com.

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At Johnson & Johnson, we’re proud to support the Hispanic community.

We believe every experience and every point of view have value.

That’s why diversity is part of how we work every day.

And why equal access to opportunity shapes our culture.

Diversity is more than a promise, it’s our practice.

©Jo

hnso

n &

Joh

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Ser

vice

s, In

c. 2

016


3. AT&T

Senior Vice President, AT&T EntertainmentGroup – Premium Care, AT&T Services, Inc.Carmen Nava was appointed Senior VicePresident – Premium Care, in September 2015.In this role, Nava leads AT&T EntertainmentGroup’s efforts to care for customers with morecomplex needs, while providing continuousimprovements across the business.

Her 31-year career has taken her to assignmentsin customer experience, business planning, billing,customer service and sales, human resources,external affairs and marketing. Prior to this as-signment, Nava served as Senior Vice President– Customer Experience. Nava is active in thecommunity and serves on the Corporate AdvisoryBoard of the University of Southern California’s(USC) Latino Alumni Association and on theUniversity of the Incarnate Word’s Board ofTrustees. She also serves on the Advisory Boardof two Employee Resource Groups that support thecompany’s commitment to diversity and inclusionthrough their efforts in the workplace, marketplaceand the community: HACEMOS and LEAGUE.

Nava was recognized as one of the Top 5 LatinaExecutives of the year for 2013 by LATINA Stylemagazine for her work to empower women andthe Hispanic community and was selected byHispanic Professionals in the InformationTechnology Industry (HITEC) as one of the Top100 most influential and notable Hispanics in thetechnology industry for 2016. Nava is a nativeof Los Angeles, Calif., and a graduate of theUniversity of Southern California School ofBusiness. She resides in Dallas, Texas, with herhusband, Robert. They have one daughter.

2. Comcast NBCUniversal

Myrna Soto is Senior Vice President Global ChiefInformation Security Officer (GCISO) of ComcastCorporation. She works closely with all of thetechnology and security teams across the organization,including Comcast Cable, NBCUniversal, ComcastSpectacor and Comcast Platform Services to developcyber security, network/infrastructure security,data security strategies, and operational efficacyin security programs, policies, and technology riskmanagement. Soto is also the Executive Champion ofComcast’s Hispanic employee resource group, Unidos,which strives to impact innovation, collaborationand exceptional business results by developingfuture leaders and serving the community.

Soto joined Comcast in 2009 after earning morethan 20 years of focused Information Technologyand Security experience and accolades within avariety of industries, including: financial services,hospitality, insurance/risk management andgaming/entertainment. Soto previously served asSenior Vice President and Chief Infrastructure &Information Security Officer, responsible forenterprise information and infrastructure securitystrategy and operations for Comcast Cable.

Soto holds a bachelor’s degree from FloridaInternational University, a Master of Science degreein Industrial Psychology, a Master of BusinessAdministration degree from Nova SoutheasternUniversity and a Masters Certification in ProjectManagement from George Washington University.

Soto was recognized by SC Magazine as the Top10 Power Players for Women in Security - 2015. Sheis also an Executive Management Committee BoardMember (Vice President) of HITEC (Hispanic ITExecutive Council), a Member of the Board of Directorsfor CMS Energy & Consumers Energy, and a Memberof the Board of Directors for Spirit Airlines.

4. Accenture

Nellie Borrero is a highly respected executive andleader, recognized for her passion for inclusion anddiversity. Thoughtful with deep global experience,Borrero works to raise awareness and increaseunderstanding on the importance of embracingdiversity and equality. She communicates the messageworld-wide to leaders, recruits, and organizations.

Borrero joined Accenture in 1986 creating thefirst role for diversity efforts. She holds a crucialleadership role and is a driving force behind thecompany's diversity initiatives. Under Borrero'sleadership, the most recent innovations are creationof a development program for high performingwomen globally, design of career progressioninitiatives for women throughout APAC, EMEA andthe Americas; global positioning of the LGBT andPersons with Disability agenda; as well as thedesign and execution of ethnic diversity programs.

Borrero has shared her perspectives and beliefsin publications such as Forbes, ManagementConsulting Magazine, Chicago Tribune, DiversityInc., Diversity Careers in IT & Engineering, BlackEnterprise and Hispanic Engineering, as well ashaving been a featured guest on National PublicRadio (NPR).

She has received numerous awards, amongthem: 2016 Black Enterprise Top Executives inCorporate Diversity; 2012 LATINA Style Top 5Executive Women; 2012 Marcus BuckinghamLeaders Leading Leaders Award; 2012 HispanicBusiness Influentials.

Borrero earned her Bachelor of Arts Degree afterattending New York University and Lehman College.Her degree is in Management, specializing in HumanResources. Borrero is married and has a daughterand son. She enjoys her family life, reading, playingtennis and purposefully giving to the world.

30

Myrna SotoSVP, Global Chief Information Security Officer

Carmen Nava Senior Vice President, Premium Care

Nellie Borrero Managing Director-Global Inclusion & Diversity


Business wins when everyone matters.Diversity and inclusion are enduring values embedded into our culture. These values are fundamental to both our business and mission, to save people money so they can live better.

At Walmart, we continue to look for ways to diversify our business and team of associates to better serve our customers. We are proud of the strides we have made, but our journey is not over.

With the help of our associates, customers, suppliers, and the communities we serve, we look forward to continuing our journey in being a true leader in all aspects of diversity and inclusion by off ering programs that truly matter.

The “Spark” Design ( ), Walmart and Save Money. Live Better. are marks and/or registered marks of Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. ©2009 Wal-Mart Stores, Inc., Bentonville, AR.


5. Johnson & Johnson

Denice Torres is Chief Strategy and BusinessTransformation Officer for Johnson & JohnsonMedical Devices. She serves on the MedicalDevices Group Operating Committee (GOC) and isresponsible for boldly advancing the organization’stransformation to support its innovation andgrowth goals.

Prior to this role, Torres was co-chair of Johnson &Johnson Consumer Inc., North America. She wasalso President of the Johnson & Johnson ConsumerUS OTC division, McNeil Consumer Healthcare.

In 2016, Torres was selected as the recipientof the Johnson & Johnson H.O.N.O.R. SpecialRecognition Leadership Award for her exceptionalsupport of the company’s employee resourcegroups and diversity and inclusion. In 2015, shewas named Healthcare Businesswomen’s AssociationWoman of the Year. In 2013, Working Mothernamed her Working Mother of the Year. She hasbeen featured in Pharmaceutical Executive,Philadelphia Business Journal, LATINA Style,WomenWorking and Siempre Mujer.

Torres has a Master of Business Administrationfrom the University of Michigan, Stephen M. RossSchool of Business; Doctor of Jurisprudence fromIndiana University, Maurer School of Law; and aBachelor of Science in Psychology from Ball StateUniversity. She serves on the national board ofOut & Equal.

Torres lives in Clinton, NJ with her spouse, Kim,and their 15-year-old daughter, Sierra. As mom toa daughter with cerebral palsy, she is wildlypassionate about opportunities and possibilitiesfor special needs children. She also enjoys biking,all things tech, and is a spirited advocate forwomen’s leadership and health and fitness.

6. Prudential Financial

Yanela Frias is the Vice President of Finance forPrudential’s Individual Annuities business. In thiscapacity Frias is responsible for the financialreporting, planning and analysis, capitalmanagement and corporate finance functionsof the business. Prior to this position, Frias wasthe Vice President of Finance for the IndividualLife business where she led the finance functionand played a significant leadership role in theacquisition of the Hartford Life business.

Before joining the Individual Life business,Frias was a Managing Director with the Treasurer’sorganization and Assistant Treasurer for PrudentialFinancial, Inc. In addition, she was the Treasurerfor the Corporate & Other business unit. Frias alsopartnered with Corporate Banking in coordinatingbanking relationships. Previously, she held variouspositions in the Treasurer’s organization includingBusiness Unit Treasury for Retirement, IndividualLife, Group, Closed Block and PRERS.

Frias joined Prudential in March 1997 as amember of the External Financial Reporting Groupwhere she was responsible for the consolidationand reporting of Enterprise financial results,including the preparation of the Annual Report. InAugust of 2000, Frias moved on to the Strategy &Competitive Analysis Group. In this role, shefocused on analyzing competitor results, strategiesand competitive advantages as well as supportingthe Company’s Demutualization.

Frias received a B.S. in Accounting and anM.B.A. in finance from Rutgers University. Frias isa Certified Public Accountant and a member of theAmerican Institute of Certified Public Accountants.

7. Wal-Mart Stores Inc.

Gisel Ruiz is executive vice president for theInternational People Division, supporting 2.3million associates in 27 countries outside theUnited States. In this role, Ruiz is responsiblefor driving the human resources strategy andpriorities for one of the fastest growing divisionsof the company.

A 24-year associate, Ruiz is an inspirationalleader who has consistently contributed to Walmart’sgrowth and success while demonstrating anunwavering commitment to their associates.While executive vice president of People for WalmartU.S., she helped transform the company's approachto talent management and leveraged technologyto drive changes that increased efficiencies andimproved the associate and customer experiencesupporting more than 1.2 million associates.

Ruiz began her career at Walmart as a storemanagement trainee in 1992. She has held a varietyof leadership positions in store operations, laborrelations and human resources.

LATINA Style honored her as 2010 LatinaExecutive of the Year, and in 2012, 2013 and2014, she was named by FORTUNE magazine asone of the 50 Most Powerful Women in Business.In 2013, Ruiz was awarded the HispanicFederation's "Premio Orgullo" award, honoringLatinos who have shown an unwaveringdedication to their community. Most recentlyshe received the 2013 "Woman of the Year"Distinguished Service Award from the USO ofMetropolitan New York.

She has a Bachelor of Science in marketing fromSanta Clara University, where she also completedthe Retail Management Institute program.

32

Denice TorresChief Strategy & Business Transformation Officer

Yanela C FriasVice President, Finance

Gisel RuizExecutive Vice President International

People Division


Diversity Is What Drives UsGM is honored to be recognized by LATINA Style as one of the top 50 companies for Latinas in the U.S. We congratulate all honorees.

©2016 General Motors. All Rights Reserved. Learn more at gm.com

Gracias.

as a top 50 companies for Latinas to work for.

11. PepsiCoGrace Puma is the Senior Vice President andChief Supply Officer of PepsiCo. Globally, PepsiCohas 22 different brands that generate more than$1 billion each in annual retail sales. With netrevenues of over $66 billion, PepsiCo’s mainbusinesses – Quaker, Tropicana, Gatorade, Frito-Layand Pepsi-Cola - make hundreds of enjoyablefoods and beverages that are respected householdnames throughout the world.

Since Puma joined PepsiCo in 2010, shetransit ioned Global Procurement from adecentralized, market-based function to acentralized global procurement entity. In 2015,Puma was appointed Chief Supply Officer withexpanded responsibilities to include: GlobalLogistics, Global Procurement, and PepsiCoWorldwide Flavours. Puma has strategicleadership accountabilities for 11 concentratemanufacturing operations, $30B of purchasespend and ~3600 worldwide employees. Herscope of responsibility includes driving: enterprisesupply chain strategy; productivity; commodityrisk management; plant health/safety; productquality and supply service to PepsiCo’s businesses.

Puma is a seasoned executive experienced attransforming decentralized organizations intoglobally connected, locally wired business functionsthat drive performance. She is well regarded as astrategist and change agent. Recognized as a topfemale and Hispanic leader role model, Puma ishighly valued for her ability to find innovativesolutions, building strong business relationshipsand developing talent.

In 2013, Puma was recognized as the #4 CPOout of 5,000 global CPOs across all industries byExecRank. In 2016, she was recognized as the“Executive of the Year” by LATINA Style magazine.

12. FCA US LLCFCA US LLC is a North American automobilemanufacturer of Ram, Dodge, Jeep, Chrysler, Fiatand Mopar products. FCA US has a longstandingcommitment to diversity and inclusion, and it isingrained the company’s culture. The wide rangeof diverse employee talents and perspectives allowsthe company to take for visionary approaches,strategically apply new technologies and forgeahead in innovation and performance.

FCA US is passionate about finding diverse talentand creating lasting relationships with organizationswho strive for success and for inspiring others. Weare proud to work with each of the seven BusinessResource Groups (BRGs); their energy, enthusiasmand team focused can do attitude contributes tothe company’s ability to gain a deeper understandingof unique and culturally relevant development,mentoring, and recruitment strategies. BRG - Latins inConnection’s (LinC) goals are designed around fourpillars: career, culture, community and commerce.Each year LinC holds its’ annual mentoring program.The program matches members with companyexecutives for guidance and leadership. Thisprogram, in addition to many others, providesmembers ongoing engagement with the group’sExecutive Sponsor, networking, exposure and careerdevelopment opportunities that are second to none.

Highest-ranking Latina, Michelle Cook,Senior Manager, Organization Planning and HRCommunications, is responsible for company-wideorganization design processes and consultation.She also leads HR’s communication strategy with afocus on developing innovative ways to communicateand reinforce the employee value proposition insupport of talent acquisition and retention. Born inMichigan, she earned a Bachelor’s degree in humanresources from the University of Michigan-Dearbornand an MBA from Wayne State University.

LATINAStyle Vol. 22, No. 4 , 2016www.lat inasty le.com36

Grace PumaSenior Vice President and Chief Supply Officer

Michelle CookSenior Manager, Organization Planning

and HR Communications

LATINA Style 50 Report Behind the Scenes

The LATINA Style 50 survey is ateam effort that begins with surveyssubmitted from corporate America.

Each survey is reviewed to ensure moreopportunities for Latinas are taking intoconsideration. The selection team ensurescompanies from across the nation receivethe survey either on-line, email or mail.

From answering questions to providingmore information regarding the survey, therelationship develops as we connect witheach company representative participating.The final survey includes a portion wherecompanies highlight their highest-rankingLatina in the company, the Hispanic affinitygroups, recruitment efforts, supplier diversityinformation and much more. Due to the widescope of questions, different departmentswithin the company collaborate to obtainthe most accurate information.

This process can take weeks to months.Companies submit a completed survey andis carefully reviewed by the LATINA Style50 report panelists. Every answer is carefullyreviewed and measured. Each companyand its programs are also thoroughlyexamined. Companies are evaluated usinga scoring system, research information ofthe company and interpretation of the writtenresponses provided by each company in thesurvey. The final scores are then announcedinternally with each company. The finalranking is not based on the publishedchart, it is only a portion of the final review.The evaluation period takes around amonth to make sure every answer is takeninto consideration.

The LATINA Style 50 Report continuesto be one of the most respected among thetop companies for Latinas to work for in theU.S. The survey is one of its kind with themission to recognize the work that corporateAmerica is doing to advance and empowerLatinas in the U.S. The LATINA Style teamwants to thank all of the companies whoparticipated in the 2016 LATINA StyleReport. Every year your participation helpsus provide the most accurate insight on thetop companies for Latinas to work for.Congratulations to the top 50 bestcompanies for Latinas to work for!


#EsoEsHacerValerTusPenneys | jcp.com

WORK YOURSTYLE

At JCPenney we believe that a fully diverse and inclusive workplace is essential to our success. By working together we bring our customers sensational style at great prices.

In real dollars, a $100,000 hypothetical investment in the LS50in the beginning of 2001 would have resulted in an account balanceof $319,854 while an equivalent investment in the S&P500 wouldhave resulted in an account balance of $207,924 at the end of 2015(see chart). That represents a 54% positive cumulative difference($111,931 more) for an investor choosing to invest in the LS50 indexversus the S&P500. In other words, an investment in the LS50 wouldhave resulted in greater positive gains versus the same investment in theS&P 500 even amidst these challenging economic/political/socialcircumstances. This performance takes into account that there wereyears in the study where the LS50 underperformed the S&P 500.Yet, even with these underperforming years, longer term returns haveconsistently shown the LS50 outperforming the S&P500 index.

While the analysis is by no means comprehensive in that thereare multiple other variables to consider when making investmentdecisions, it does provide an interesting consideration in a time whensociety questions every aspect of daily living. As such, these resultshave affirmed that investing in companies that live out responsible,social practices, as do the LS50, can be morally beneficialwhile financially prudent.

Disclaimer*This analysis is based on available data at the time of analysis. Some companyperformances have been omitted as they no longer exist or were not publiclytraded. This analysis and returns are also based on a yearly rebalancing ofthe portfolio to take into account the different companies that are chosenas part of the index each year and an equal weighting of each company. Inaddition, the measured performance and conclusions derived therein reflecta retrospective look at market performance as the study is conducted afterthe companies have been selected. It is never prudent to invest basedon historical stock performance alone. In addition, the LS50 index is nota real market index but rather a dynamic collection of companies as chosenyearly by LATINA Style magazine. The rates of return and performanceillustrated do not reflect any costs associated with investing in either index.

As such, the above article should not be construed, nor is it writtento provide financial advice as individual situations may vary and pastperformance is not indicative of future results. Any decision to investin equity markets should be consulted with a financial professional.


Uncertainty has been prevalent in the world this past yearwith happenings such as Brexit, shootings, U.S. Presidentialelections, etc. Yet, in the midst of uncertain times LATINA

Stylemagazine challenges the world claiming that investing in Latinasmakes sense from all perspectives. Since 2001, LATINA Style hasrecognized companies committed to diversity and inclusion in theirrespective workforce, especially those that provide career advancementopportunities for Hispanic women. Each year, LATINA Style chooses50 companies (LS50) via an extensive survey as being the mostsensitive to Latinas’ needs and goals in the workplace and that providethe best career opportunities for Latinas in the U.S. After several yearsof honoring such companies, LATINA Style posed an interestingquestion: is it economically prudent to invest in companies that arecommitted to the advancement of Latinas in the workplace? Whilemany have made the case that women in business makes sense onall levels, LATINA Style took this a step further by asking if thiswas true even as a financial investment.

Using moral or values based criteria to invest has been attemptedvia “socially responsible funds” (investment funds that use certainvalue or moral principles by which to invest, such as not investingin casinos or tobacco companies). This type of investing, however,has been critiqued as underperforming the stock market at large due tolimited availability of investment options for investors. Whilepotentially satisfying an investor’s quest to promote or fulfill amoral or philosophical value, investments are ultimately judged byperformance or total return.

LATINA Style put this theory to the test using its own sociallyresponsible criteria: investing in the LS50. Allgen Financial Services,Inc. (www.allgenfinancial.com) a registered investment advisoryfirm based in Florida, was commissioned to test and compare thereturns of companies in the LS50 to the stock market at large. Usingthe S&P 500 index to represent the market at large, Allgen FinancialServices, Inc. compiled yearly returns of the S&P 500 vs. yearly returnsequally allocated among the LS50 for the respective years. Whileprevious years’ studies have shown that investing in these companiescan be a wise investment purely from a financial perspective,* the2016 results showed deviation from the historical trend.

The S&P 500 eked out a mere 1.38% gain in 2016. Comparatively,an investment in the LS50 would have been down -2.33%. However,when aggregated with hypothetical performance of the index andreal returns of the S&P 500 since 2001, the chart below shows theLS50 outperforming the S&P 500 over that time period. Theyearly average for the LS50 was 8% better than that of the S&P500from 2001 through 2015.

Average Annual Real Return since 2001*LS 50 Index 15.70%S&P 500 7.71%

Assessing the 2016 LATINA Style 50 ReportInvesting in the Advancement of Hispanic Women By Paul Roldan, Senior PartnerAllgen Financial Advisors, Inc.


LS


2016 Latina Board of Directors

D ifferent insights, experiences, and guidance to the table are all essential components for success in today's

global environment. Although women have made significant strides in the corporate workplace in recent decades, statistics show that women, especially Latinas, still have a long way to go to reach parity in corporate America.

With the increasingly Hispanic growing population and market boom, Latinas are critical to the future of every company. According to Catalyst, a nonprofit organization with a mission to accelerate progress for women through workplace inclusion, women hold 19.2 percent of the board positions of S&P 500; 4.4 percent by Latinas. Envisioning a seat in the corporate boardroom is the first

Dina Dublon Senior Lecturer at Harvard Business

School, Former Chief Financial Officer, JPMorgan Chase & Co.

Accenture

Cynthia A. Telles Ph.D.; member Kaiser Foundation Hospitals and Health Plan Board

of Directors

Kaiser Permanente

Monica C. Lozano Former Chairman, U.S. Hispanic Media Inc.

Bank of America

Melanie Healey Former Group President, North America,

The Procter & Gamble Company

Target

step for Latinas to reach the highest levels of decision-making that can impact the U.S. economy.

Among the LATINA Style 50 are eight Latinas who serve on boards of the companies voted as the top 50 for whom to work. They willingly share their knowledge, offering insights to support the next generation ofleaders. They embody the best of what a professional can achieve with the right balance of hard work, leadership, talent and passion. Whether it's financial prowess, wisdom, leadership in business, government and community, here are a few Latinas that are defying the odds and are already making headway into the elusive echelons of

corporate leadership. Is Want to comment or have any questions on this article? Email us at [email protected]

Nina G. Vaca Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Pinnacle Technical Resources, Inc. and

Vaca Industries Inc.

Comerica Bank

Aida M. Alvarez Former Administrator of the U.S. Small

Business Administration.

Wai-Mart Stores Inc.

Marta Tienda Maurice P. During '22 Professor in

Demographic Studies at Princeton University

TIAA

Sara Martinez Tucker Retired Chief Executive Officer, National

Math and Science Initiative; Former Under Secretary of Education in the U.S.

Department of Education

Xerox Corporation

42 www.lati nastyle. com LATINftS'tyleval. 22, No.4, 2016

Carlos Orta Returns to the Place of his Birth in Cuba After 46 Years


By Carlos Orta

On Monday, May 2, history was in themaking when I boarded CarnivalCorporation’s Fathom cruise ship,MV Adonia, and sailed from Miami toHavana, Cuba. It was very emotionalfor everyone, especially to those ofus who were born in Cuba. For me,it was a trip 46 years in the making.I had left Cuba with my parents when Iwas only three years old and relocatedto Madrid, Spain, before coming tothe United States in August of 1971.

When I joined Carnival Corporation in Marchof 2014, I never imagined that one day I wouldreturn to my beautiful Cuba, and much less bea part of history by being on the first cruise shipto sail from the United States to Cuba in morethan 40 years. It was a once-in-a-lifetimejourney for which I am grateful.

Dozens of media outlets captured thehistoric sailing at capacity with 704 guestsfrom around the world. The MV Adonia dockedat the Sierra Madre Port Terminal to be greetedby ecstatic Cuban people who had lined upfor miles along the Malecón to welcome andcheer us on. I remembered what my motheralways told me, “Mi hijo, en Cuba todo elmundo sabe que el Malecón es la sala de laHavana”. What she meant is that locals gatherat the Malecón every night as if it were a hugeliving room. That’s exactly what we saw whenleaving Havana on Tuesday evening as weprepared to head to Cienfuegos.

Everyone, from our guests, our crew, and mycolleagues, were excited about our arrivalinto Havana Harbor. My excitement wastempered by the fact that I couldn’t help butthink how my parents must have felt when theydeparted their beloved island 46 years ago. Iwondered what my feelings would be when Iactually walked on Cuban soil.

Immediately upon setting foot in Cuba, I wasoverwhelmed with joy, and everyone was able toexperience the local flavors by interacting with

the Cuban people. As we stepped out of theterminal building and went across the street tothe plaza, we were greeted by hundreds ofCubans and were overwhelmed with joy. Thelevel of emotion was indescribable, and, at thesame time, a very symbolic moment. There,behind us, stood the first U.S. cruise ship todock in Havana in more than 40 years.

May 1970. Madrid airport with my grandmotherand father.

The Hotel Palacio Azul is a beautiful structure locatedin the town of Cienfuegos.

Club Cienfuegos is a perfect venue for food and drinks at sunset.The wrap-around dining terraces are great for photo opportunities

and memorable experiences.


During the seven-day journey, I was proud tosee that guests from around the world weredevoted to getting in touch with the essence ofthe Caribbean and Latin culture in Cuba. Throughinteractive workshops, everyone absorbed therich exchange provided by Fathom as weparticipated in both on-ground and at-seaactivities bringing us closer to the food, culture,and history. It was fun watching people learn todance son, salsa, and rumba.

As the MV Adonia made its way across the bluewaters of the Caribbean to Havana, Cienfuegos,and Santiago de Cuba, we were able to dancethe night away with Cuban musicians whojoined the cruise in Havana and Cienfuegos.

During the first part of day one, we exploredHavana Vieja (old Havana) which is just a fewsteps away from the Sierra Madre Port Terminal.Many visited a paladar (privately owned restaurantat one’s home) for amazing Cuban cuisine. Iwas reminded of my grandmother’s cookingwhich I enjoyed growing up in Miami.

Walking through old Havana, we enjoyed thebeautiful architecture, speaking with the locals,and taking in the colorful sights and sounds. Atnight, we experienced the world-renownedTropicana, Havana’s Las Vegas-style cabaretand club that attracted the likes of Marlon Happy and proud on my 5th birthday celebration.


Brando, Rita Hayworth, and others throughoutthe 1950s.

After two days and one night in Havana, weset sail for Cienfuegos, a UNESCO WorldHeritage site known as the Pearl of the South,where we were dazzled by the French-influenced,neo-classical buildings. We visited Teatro TomásTerry and enjoyed a performance by Cantores deCienfuegos who shared the story of their lives.

The final stop was in Santiago de Cubawhere we visited historic attractions like SanJuan Hill and the Castillo de San Pedro de la

Roca, and caught a glimpse of Spanish-Americanmilitary architecture and artifacts. From a guest’sperspective, there is no better way to see Cubathan from the comfort of a beautiful ship like theMV Adonia.

Reflecting on the historic trip will always fillme with nostalgia. On the last evening beforeour departure, I realized that I had succeeded inreturning to my parents’ home, an island that Ican also call my home.

Forty-six years is a very long time, but wellworth the wait to be able to see Cuba the wayI did.

Carlos F. Orta is Vice President, Corporate Affairs, Carnival Corporation & plc.The MV Adonia travels to Cuba from Port Miami,Florida. www.wlcl.com.

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Fathom’s MV Adonia sailingout of Havana Harbor.

An enthusiastic Cuban family followed our ship,MV Adonia, as we left Santiago de Cuba. Cienfuegos is a town with beautiful architecture.

Avocado and Coconut Ice Cream He/ado de Aguacate y Coco Serves 6

3 large ripe Mexican avocados about 2 lbs, halved, pitted, pulp scooped out (about 3 cups) 2 tablespoons fresh squeezed lime juice 1 1/2 cups coconut milk 3/4 cups sugar more to taste 1 I 4 cup dried shredded coconut, lightly toasted, optional for garnish, or toasted almonds, pine nuts or pistachios

1. Cut the avocados in half, remove the pit and scoop the pulp out. Cut the pulp into chunks and place it in the blender or food processor. Add the coconut milk, sugar, and lime juice, and puree until smooth.

2. Process the avocado-coconut puree in you ice cream maker, or ice cream ball,

46

according to the manufacturers instructions. Place in the freezer for a couple of hours for firmer ice cream. If you don't have an ice cream maker you can serve it as a cold mousse, or you can also freeze it and serve it as ice cream, but it will be a little less fluffy. But it's still good!

3. Lightly toast the shredded coconut on a small saute pan set over medium-low heat, stirring constantly so it does not burn. It will take less than a minute. Once the coconut becomes fragrant and acquires a tan, remove and set aside. Sprinkle over the ice cream.

Recipe courtesy Pati jinich,

from patijinich.com

www.lati nastyle. com

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-choppea; ·seeding op~iohiil · .· · '" . . • .'·s. cup~ J resh i::9rn ·k~rnels from about l2. _:._

ear.s of corri ' . 2 cups water · 2 tablespoons chopped fresh epazote leaves or 1 teaspoon dried (may substitute cilantro, which gives a different flavor, but it also works!) 1 teaspoon kosher or coarse sea salt or more to taste 2 limes quartered (optional for garnish) 1/2 cup mayonnaise or Mexican crema optional for garnish 1/2 cup crumbled queso fresco cotija, or mild feta cheese (optional for garnish) Dried ground chile piqufn optional for garnish

1. Heat the butter together with the oil in a large saucepan or casserole over medium-high heat. Once the butter has melted and is bubbling, add the chopped chile and cook for a minute, stirring frequently, until softened.

LATINftS'tyleval. 22, No.4, 2016


2. Incorporate the corn and cook for acouple more minutes. Pour the water overthe corn mix, add the chopped fresh ordried epazote (or cilantro) and salt. Stirand bring to a simmer, cover, reduce heatto medium-low and cook for 12 to 14minutes, until the corn is completely cooked.

3. Turn off the heat. You may leave thecorn in the pot for a couple of hours.

4. Serve the corn in cups or small bowls.Let your guests add fresh lime juice,mayonnaise or Mexican crema, crumbledcheese, powdered chile piquín, and saltto their liking.Recipe courtesy Pati Jinich, frompatijinich.com

Shrimp Enchiladas in RichTomato SaucePhoto by Ellen SilvermanEntomatadas Con Camarones Serves 6

1½ lbs medium shrimp 5 flat-leaf parsley sprigs2 garlic cloves3 or 4 bay leavesKosher or sea salt1½ lbs ripe tomatoes1 or 2 serrano or jalapeño chiles, stemmed,to taste4 scallions (white and light green partsonly), coarsely chopped½ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg3 tablespoons canola or safflower oil1 cup Mexican crema or heavy cream, plus abit more for garnish12 corn tortillas2 tablespoons unsalted butter

For garnish:4 scallions (white and light green parts only),thinly sliced

1 ripe Hass avocado, halved, pitted, fleshscooped out and sliced2 ounces queso fresco, farmer’s cheese, ormild feta, crumbled (about ½ cup)

1. Remove the shells and tails from theshrimp and reserve. Rinse the shrimpand pat dry. Cut each one into 3 or 4bite-size pieces.

2. In a medium saucepan, combine theshrimp shells and tails, parsley, one ofthe garlic cloves, bay leaves, and ½teaspoon salt. Cover with water andbring to a boil over medium-high heat.Reduce the heat to medium and simmerfor 20 minutes. Strain the broth into alarge measuring cup or heatproof bowl.

3. Combine the tomatoes, the remaininggarlic clove, and chile(s) in a mediumsaucepan. Cover with water and bring toa simmer over medium-high heat. Reducethe heat to medium and simmer until thetomatoes are thoroughly soft, about 10minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer thetomatoes to a blender. Add the choppedscallions. If you simmered 2 chiles, addonly 1 of them to the blender; when youtaste the finished puree, you can decideif you want to add the other. Add ½teaspoon salt, the nutmeg, and 1 cupof the shrimp broth and puree untilcompletely smooth. Taste and add someor all of the other chile if you would likemore chile presence and heat.

4. Rinse out and dry the saucepan. Add1 tablespoon of the oil to the pan andheat over medium heat until hot but notsmoking. Add the tomato sauce, beingcareful to avoid splatters, cover partially,and simmer, stirring occasionally, untilthe sauce thickens and deepens in colorto a much darker red, about 10 minutes.Uncover, reduce the heat to medium-low,and stir in the cream. Keep at a steady

About the Chef

Pati Jinich is host of the national PBS Televisionseries Pati’s Mexican Table, going on its fifthseason to be premiered the Fall of 2016. Jinichis a cookbook author, cooking teacher andresident chef of the Mexican Cultural Institutein Washington, DC. Jinich was born andraised in Mexico City and comes from a familyof accomplished cooks. She has resided in theWashington, D.C. area for the past 16 years,where she and her husband are raising theirthree boys. For more information on Pati Jinichvisit patijinich.com.

low simmer for 8 to 10 more minutes,until the sauce is thick and creamy andcoats the back of a wooden spoon. Tasteand adjust the salt. Remove from theheat and cover to keep warm.

5. Heat and lightly toast the tortillas on ahot comal or skillet.

6. To cook the shrimp, work in batchesso that they will sear, not steam: Heat 1tablespoon of the remaining oil and 1tablespoon of the butter in a large skilletover high heat until the butter is foaming.Add half the shrimp, season with salt,and cook for 2 minutes, stirring and flippinga few times, until just cooked throughand lightly browned. With a slottedspoon, transfer to a large plate. Add theremaining tablespoon each of oil andbutter to the skillet, and once the butteris foaming, add the remaining shrimp,season with salt, and cook in the samemanner; transfer to the bowl.

7. Reheat the sauce if necessary. Glideone of the tortillas through the sauce andplace on a plate. Place about 3 of theshrimp across the middle and fold in half,like a quesadilla. Place on a platter andcontinue with the remaining tortillas andshrimp, overlapping the enchiladas slightly.

8. Once all of the enchiladas are filled,spoon the remaining tomato sauce ontop. They should be sauced generously.Garnish with the sliced scallions, avocado,cheese and serve.

Recipe excerpted from Mexican Today, ©2016 by Pati Jinich. Reproduced by permissionof Rux Martin Books/Houghton Mifflin Harcourt.All rights reserved.


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by a diverse workforceand practice of inclusivity.

Los Alamos National Laboratory is an equal opportunity employer and supports a diverse and inclusive workforce. EOE M/F/D/V


LinkedIn is one of the best ways to expand your professional profileonline. By using this social media platform, millions of individualsand companies can see your resume online and it will get noticed.

LinkedIn allows users to network onlinesimilar to other social media platforms. Italso gives you the opportunity to post ideas,thoughts and engage with your connections. If you have a particular career or profession,LinkedIn lets you join a group or start onewith similar interest. It also offers jobopening information that zeros in to yourprofession of choice.

Businesses and nonprofits use LinkedIn tokeep their brand visible to the masses. Ithelps companies connect with possible newclients or prospective employees.

Set Up a Killer Profile

Your profile "sells you" on LinkedIn. Thisis your page. Write it in first person. Makesure you are "talking to" your connectionsnot "at them."

Photo: First, choose a photo for yourprofile. It does not have to be a professionalstudio portrait. If you can shoot a nice oneof yourself on your phone, go for it. Lookprofessional and approachable. Yes, it'sOK to smile.

Summary: This is the first section on yourpage. This is where you give a brief summaryof your career so far. What you write herewill make a person decide whether to keepreading your resume and send you an inviteto connect or not.

Write the summary in bullet points. Peopleon the web are known "scanners." It's always

A Powerful Online Tool By Rebecca Aguilar

an easier read on the web if bullet pointsare used.

A good summary answers the following:

• What I do • Why I have passion for this job• Where I have been so far• Recognitions for my work• Where I give back to community

Fill Out Job Experience

This is where you have bragging rightsagain. Tell us where you have worked andwhat you accomplished while there. Themore interesting and specific, the more yourpage will be viewed.

Reach Out and Get Recommendations

You are good at what you do and otherprofessionals know it, right? Now is the timeto ask some of your LinkedIn connections towrite you a recommendation that will beposted right below the job it pertains to.

These recommendations should not bewhat we call the "rah, rah!" type, butrather one that points out specific on whyyou were great for the job and how youmake a difference.

Example: When I hired Adriana she was ableto zero in the Latino business owners whichturned into larger sales and revenue for ourcompany in 2016.

Good Citizen Work

There is a section on your LinkedIn page thatallows you to share your experience as avolunteer or even on a board of directors. Makesure you are specific. If you're on a board, sharewhat you have done for the organization tomake it better. If you're a volunteer, wherehave you invested your time and why.

Example: I served on the board of directors ona volunteer basis. During my time on the boardI raised more than 200,000 dollars in scholarshipfunds and brought in more than 100 members.

Invite and Grow Your Connections

Start finding your connections (professionals)on LinkedIn. The easiest way is doing a searchon the companies you have worked andcurrently work for. Usually under a searchyou'll find a page of other people who have anemployer in common. Connect with theseformer co-workers by sending them an invite.Do searches under names of individuals. Againsend out an invite to connect.

First Explore LinkedIn

LinkedIn is another powerful tool for yoursocial media toolkit. It will keep youconnected with those who can help you moveforward in your career and business. Sign upfor a page and start exploring.


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After spending over 300days in Afghanistan, my

tour of duty had finally cometo an end. I stepped into aC-130 and I began my longjourney back home. Goodbyesleepless nights, so longcrazy weather, hello mom’shome cooked meals!

I never imagined that I would have the opportunity totravel the world as a U.S. Navy officer and I even gotpaid to do it. Thanks to the U.S. Navy, I have traveled toEurope, the Middle East and all over the U.S doing workthat I love. My decision to join was clear when I foundout about the opportunities the U.S. Navy Reserve had tooffer. In 2013, I direct commissioned in the U.S. NavyReserve as a public affairs officer (PAO) and it has beenan incredible experience.

I have traveled all over the country, I did an exercise inGermany where I conducted media training as a role-playingreporter and I recently returned from Afghanistan. I knowin my heart that I made the right decision to serve mycountry, regardless of the challenges or dangerous placesthat it may take me.

In Afghanistan, I interacted daily with people of differentnationalities (Romanians, Austrians, Polish, Italians,Australians, Afghans and Turks). It was very difficultto understand each other sometimes because of the languagebarriers (#doyoucomewithsubtitles). Imagine a combinedteam of people from different parts of the world who haveto work and live together seven days a week, 10 hours aday! Everyone has a different opinion, but it is incrediblewhen we all came together to execute our mission.

Deployments are never easy, no matter where you go.The support from my family, fiancé and friends was vitalthroughout my deployment. They motivated me when thedays got tough, they inspired me to keep pushing throughand to learn as much as I could.

By Lt. j.g. Eileen M. SuarezPublic Affairs OfficerU.S. Navy Reserve

My inspiration, ambition and motivation did not springup magically. It comes from my all-star family! My momcame to the U.S. from Mexico in search of her brotherwho disappeared and my father came from Cuba almost30 years ago to escape the communist regime. The daybefore I left for my deployment to Afghanistan, I had aheartwarming conversation with my mom and dad. I sawhow scared they were for me and I tried to say whatever Icould to ease their worries. With tears in his eyes, myfather said to me, “You are paying our debt for what thiscountry has given us.” However, to me, it is not a debt, itis an honor.

The reserve is not for everyone, but it is a career thatallows you to see the world, enhance your skills and mostimportantly a way to serve your country. I challenge allwomen, no matter your profession, to set short and longterm goals and follow through with them. In our country,you can be whoever you want to be as long as you arewilling to put in the effort and work hard.

I am proud of what my colleagues and I accomplishedoverseas, but I am glad to finally be home. LS

Eileen Suarez receives Commendation Medal from Brigadier General Wilson Shoffner, United States Army.


3 Tips to Help You Stand Out in the Civilian JobMarket: A Message to Service Members


If there is one thing I know for certain is that military experiencematters in business. In fact, I think it makes all the difference.

But, the biggest challenge you will face is articulating your experienceto be seen as a viable candidate. This is why I have dedicated my careerin helping you find meaningful careers after service. So listen up Vets!

1) Resumes still matter and essentialeven in the digital age. It’s your professionalbio that highlights what you’ve done, whereyou’ve been and what you’ve accomplished.Those patches and medals are no longerapplicable in the civilian world. Yourexperience will now be put on paper and inyour own words. Your mission is to unveilyour capabilities into civilian speak. But, itis easier to wear your resume than write it.

Your resume has to clearly define howyou are uniquely qualified for the positionyou want and convince a hiring managerthat you are a “force-multiplier!” Here aresome pointers to get you thinking in theright direction.

Does your resume start with a clearsummary of your skills and qualifications?

List your accountabilities versus whatyou did?

Don’t only list what you did but explainhow you made it better.

By Evan GuzmanGlobal Head of Military Programs & Veteran AffairsVerizon Corporate Office

Don’t worry about the format toomuch. Functional or chronological typicallywon’t make a difference. Recruiters aretoo busy looking for “buzz words” suchas “C++”, “cyber”, “systems” to determineif you are a match or not. Recruiters look atresumes no longer than 20-40 seconds orhave search filters figure it out. They arelooking to weed you out. Don’t letthem. Your goal is to get weeded in. Agreat resource to get you started indrafting up a solid military-to-civilianresume is by visiting ResumeEngine.org.It is an intuitive resume developer thatwas created just for you.

2) Networking is the most essentialcomponent in finding good jobs. Youmust “network, to get-work.” Attendingjob fairs and networking events areS.O.P’s However, connecting with peopleinside companies is the key to opening doorsof opportunity. LinkedIn is like having a

Want to comment or have any questions on this article? Email us at [email protected]

rocket propelled resume profile. If you don’thave a profile, you need to create one. Youcan use your resume as a guide to build asolid premium LinkedIn profile.

Let’s say you applied to a job at Verizon.You can use LinkedIn to connect withpeople at Verizon by sending them aninvitation to connect. Once accepted you canask questions about Verizon’s culture, workenvironment, benefits, request introductionsto others of interest, or simply find outwhat it’s like to work here.

Applying for jobs online is a solid start. But,if that is all you are doing than you are onlylightly tapping on the doors of opportunity. Isay knock hard and unhinge those doors bynetworking with the right people.

3) Nail the Interview! The good newsabout landing an interview is that youhave their attention. This is your “SharkTank” moment. How you present yourself,what you say, what you don’t say, andhow you say it, will all matter on an interview.My ad s you ask yourself in front of a mirror.If someone you feel comfortable with isaround, have them throw some questionsyour way. Start with the difficult ones first.These are the questions you hope they don’task. Here are a couple questions to try out:

Why do you think you are uniquelyqualified for this position?

What is it about this position that appealsto you the most?

How does your military backgroundmake you a fit for this role?

The point of this is to learn how youcome across. What will you discover?

Evan Guzman is a veteran advocatewith two decades of experience instrategic talent acquisition and humanresources who has dedicated his careerto support fellow veterans, transitioningservice members, reservists, and militaryspouses across the country in findingmeaningful careers.

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founder of Spanx. She started a companyafter seeing the need for more women’soptions in a male dominated industry. Spanxis now worth over $1 billion (Forbes). Thenthere is the QVC Queen, Lori Greinerwhose net worth is estimated at $50 million(The Squander). These are two examplesof women knowing what women want,developing new products and new waysfor selling and capitalizing on it.

As companies look for the best educatedtalent, they must remember that in the U.S.

56 www.lat inasty le.com LATINAStyle Vol. 22, No. 4 2016

Focusing on women is not a gender issue, it’s a business imperative,an innovation incentive, smart economics and a key to globaldevelopment. We must not see women’s equality as a threat or a

gap, but it should be seen as an opportunity for growth, innovation andprogress. In order for the private and public sector to survive andthrive, they must include and pay attention to the largest pool of incomingtalent, the largest emerging consumer market, and the most educatedpopulation — women. Without a clear understanding of this emergingmarket, companies are likely to lose out on big opportunities.

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Today, women mark up almost 52 percentof all professional jobs in the U.S., yet theyare only in 14.6 percent of executive officeand only 4.6 percent of Fortune 500 CEO’s arewomen (Business Today, 2016). Corporationshave a choice to make. Either work harderat promoting women from within, pay themtheir equal share and allow flexible schedulesand acknowledge them for what they bringto the table or lose them to entrepreneurship.Today, women are not waiting for thatcorporate promotion or higher pay anymore.The new entrepreneurs are embracing theirgender differences and capitalizing on it.Companies that fail to develop inclusivecultures and fail to include half of their humanpotential at their leadership, managerialand labor force levels are risking missingout on innovative ideas that allow them toeffectively tap into this ever growing market.Women are responsible for 85 percent of allconsumer purchases in America today, at$7 trillion (She-Economy, 7 Powerful Insightsfor Marketing to Women, Anderson &Howland). Globally, women influence 65percent of the world’s annual consumerspending: about $12 trillion (The BostonConsulting Group & Harvard BusinessReview, 2009).

Women today are able to develop productsthat are practical and innovative but companiesmight think of them as a “women’s product”or a “soft product” and miss a great opportunityto cash in. Women entrepreneurs are runningwith their market-grabbing innovation ideasand turning them into increased businessand profits. One example is Sara Blakely,

Unleashing The Power of

Women EntrepreneursBy Marisa Rivera


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women have also surpassed men inachieving educational degrees. Aftercenturies of male dominance, worldwidewomen now outnumber men in bothuniversity attendance and graduation. (JosephChamie, Yale Global, 6 March 2014). Althoughthe educational achievement has increasedand surpassed men’s achievement, womencontinue to get paid less.

Even in corporate philanthropy, women’sissues are at the forefront. Melinda Gates,president of the Gates Foundation, no longersees women’s issues as “soft issues.” In aninterview with Forbes magazine she confirmedthat the solution to poverty is investing inwomen and girls. She also acknowledgedthat women’s issues are “hard issues andare at the core of global development.” Theinter-American bank and the world bank havedone studies that confirm that microloanpractices that target women in the developingworld, recognize that they are likely tosteward money effectively and channel itback into the family.

On a personal level, after working withwomen and on women’s issues all my life,I am convinced that if we focus on women wecould eradicate some of the most pressingissues in the world, such as poverty, war,corruption, domestic violence and increaseinnovation, progress and peace. As women,we must realize that we are the solution to ourown problems. As the new “Jefas” of thebusiness world, we must be able to call theshots. As visionaries, we see opportunitieswhere others don’t. We must unleash thepower of women entrepreneurs around theworld, it is the smartest investment to unlockglobal growth, equality and peace.

Marisa Rivera is president of Mpowerment Works, a motivationalspeaker, executive coach and leadershipand empowerment [email protected]

By Anna-Marie McLemore

Afeud between two families.Two rival traveling shows

fighting for space, prominence,and a livelihood. A boy and a girlfirst caught up in, and then caughtbetween, their families’ hatredfor and history with each other.It’s probably no surprise that TheWeight of Feathers, my debutnovel, began as a reimagining ofRomeo and Juliet. Like mostAmerican teens, I read the playin high school. But, as a Latinagirl, I didn’t feel like it belongedto me. Most of the classics didn’tfeel like they belonged to me. Sowhen I imagined a reinterpretationset between two competingcircuses, I knew I wanted towrite a love story about twoteens of color. I wanted to writea romance between a Latina girland a Romani boy as a way ofreclaiming a classic I had readbut had felt distance from.


Latina Juliet The Weight of Feathers,and Reclaiming Classics

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bookshelves. Through conversations aboutinclusion in media of all kinds, often fosteredby leaders such as We Need Diverse Books.Through the work of librarians, teachers,parents, and booksellers working to getdiverse stories into the hands of readers.Through the efforts of journalists andbloggers who highlight books by diverseauthors and who write about where we’vebeen and where we are in terms of inclusion.Through the advocacy of publishingprofessionals who help inclusive storiesfind their way.

And through the readers I’ve met whobring books to life with their passion andtheir love for stories. Because all of us wholove books are, and were first, readers. AndI think that’s at the heart of why so manyof us want inclusive bookshelves. We wanteveryone to get that chance to become apassionate reader, to have access to themagic of stories. To see on the page themselves,and the world around them, reflected in away that honors the truth in all of us.

I’ve been grateful and overwhelmed tohave readers get in touch with me aboutwhat The Weight of Feathers means tothem. I’ve heard from readers of differentraces and genders. I’ve heard from adultsand young adults. But most often, I hearfrom Latina girls. And when we talk—eitheronline or at book events—we often end uptalking not just about this one book I wrote.We talk about both being girls who hadtrouble finding ourselves on bookshelves.We talk about the stories we looked forgrowing up, the few we found that made usfeel like we too had a place in books.

At first, these conversations broke myheart a little, these reminders that manyreaders now have the same difficulty findingbooks that reflect them as I did a decadeago. And though I wish Latina readers sawthemselves reflected more often and morehonestly, I’ve come to understand theseconversations as a kind of sisterhood. Ashared experience of looking for ourselveson the page, and a hope for where we’regoing next.

I have tremendous hope for the future ofdiverse literature, and how we’ll get to aplace where all readers find themselves on

Mexican-American author Anna-MarieMcLemore is represented by TaylorMartindale of Full Circle Literary. Herdebut novel, The Weight of Feathers, a2016 William C. Morris YA Debut Awardfinalist, is out now from Thomas DunneBooks/St. Martin’s Press. Her secondnovel, When the Moon Was Ours, will bereleased in October 2016, and Wild Beautyis coming in 2017.

Want to comment or have any questions on this article? Email us at [email protected]

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Without a Heart, it’s just a machine.

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My Passion for EngineeringC

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By Marissa GarciaElectrical EngineeringMSEE, University of Southern California 2016BSEE, Rice University 2015

Walking around RadioShack, I felt like a little girl at a toy store. Iremember the days my dad would take me with him, and I wouldplay with all the different electronics in the store. I played with

every product I could touch and tried to figure out what they did and how theyworked. I had no clue at the time, but I was immediately hooked and alwayswondered what went inside the controller or the toy car. My dad didn’tknow it yet, but he had introduced me to the world of engineering.

My immigrant parents always emphasizedthe importance of education and the criticalrole that it plays in pursuing a successfullife. Watching my parents come home fromwork exhausted made me realize that I wantedto provide a better life for them, so thatone day, they would never see anotherbill. My parents came to the U.S. withoutmoney or knowledge of the languagespoken here, but they came to the land ofopportunity to provide a better life for theirchildren. Even though we did not have a lotof financial resources, my parents instilledin my brother and me what it meant towork hard and persevere. They taught usto always seek out opportunities to gainexperience and to find good mentors tobecome successful in life.

Going into engineering as a Latina canbe very scary when no one looks like youas you enter a classroom. Through my fouryears at Rice University, I was introducedto new people and the ways technology canhelp people. Having gained experiencethrough internships at Texas Instrumentsand talking to coworkers and professorsinspired me to pursue a graduate degree.One of the major factors in whether it waseven an option was how to pay for it. I wasvery grateful when I heard I was to beawarded the GEM Fellowship, a fellowshipthat highlights underrepresented groupsto pursue STEM fields for higher education.Through the fellowship, I was able to workat MIT Lincoln Laboratory, doing researchwork on micro-unmanned air vehicles andmicrogrids for two summers.

Growing up I never faced huge turmoiluntil last year, which was my most roughyear to date in my life. I remember being soexcited to start the fall year in Los Angeles,a dream city, at USC and getting mymasters. I got to visit the beaches andHollywood and see what all the hooplathat LA was about. Suddenly my world cameto a halt when my dad passed away rightbefore Thanksgiving. It was very roughto be thankful at the time and the holidaysand birthdays were even more bitter. Myprofessors and friends understood what Iwas going through so I was able to finishout the semester and finish my finals. Thenext question was to continue with myschool next spring. Everyone expectedme to stop school and take a break but Iknew I couldn’t let my father down; hewanted me to finish school and get mymasters. I pushed through and receivedmy MS in Electrical Engineering-mymost proud accomplishment thus far.

Going forward, I hope to utilize myspecialization in power systems to pursuea career with electric vehicles and theirimpact on the utility grid.

Currently, I am finishing my last internshipwith MIT Lincoln Laboratory and seeingwhere opportunities will lead me withinthe next year. I think back to what my dadtold me: “Keep going, Marissa. Hechaleganas y ponte lista, mija.”

Marissa Garcia at MIT Lincoln Laboratory as a GEM Fellow.

USC Graduation with family and friends. May 2016.

Rice University graduation with family. May 2015.

LSWant to comment or have any questions onthis article? Email us at [email protected]


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By Arne M. Sorenson, President and Chief Executive Officer, Marriott International, Inc.

Nothing makes me prouder when I visit our hotels than to see the diversity ofour associates working together to deliver memorable experiences for ourguests. In a business like ours, we simply cannot succeed unless our people

love their work. We also cannot succeed if our people all look the same, sound thesame or think the same. When our associates feel valued and respected fortheir individual contributions and have a sense of belonging, they become invested inthe company’s success. This is one of the reasons why we embrace diversity andinclusion at Marriott International.

To be recognized as Company of the Year byLATINA Style for the second time is a great honor andreinforces that we’re on the right track and making adifference for our associates and our guests.

Putting people first is one of our company’s corevalues. What this means in practice is that we strive tocreate a work environment where all people arerespected, valued and provided with opportunities tosucceed. Since our beginning almost 90 years ago, wehave empowered our people and offered opportunitiesfor them to grow in their careers. One of the things Iremember most about my introduction to Marriottmore than 20 years ago is the way Bill Marriott,and the rest of the company’s leadership, talkedwith excitement about how far an associate hadprogressed in his or her career. Watching our peoplesucceed is incredibly gratifying.

This doesn’t happen on its own. Marriott recognizedlong ago that providing opportunities to create a diverseand inclusive environment strengthens our company’sculture and provides a competitive advantage. I amproud that Marriott was the first hospitality company toestablish a formal diversity and inclusion programmore than 25 years ago and has supported itsWomen’s Leadership Development Initiative for morethan 15 years. The company’s multifaceted diversityinitiatives enable us to attract and retain Latinas atevery level of our business, from entry level to executive,and today, Marriott has one of the most diverseworkforces in corporate America.

In our increasingly connected and competitiveworld, we must draw from a broad set of skills andideas and work together to perfect diversity andinclusion at Marriott.

Creating a Competitive AdvantageThrough Diversity & Inclusion

Our commitment and effort grows stronger all thetime. Diversity of thought is the currency of growthand longevity and a critical ingredient that goes intogenuine hospitality. We know supporting diversity andinclusion is not only the right thing, it is essential forbusiness success.


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Brenda Durham, Senior Vice President & Regional General Counsel, Marriott International, Inc.

Last year, I participated in the II CEO Summit of the Americas in Panama City on apanel for Women’s Economic Empowerment. I couldn’t help but feel proud to speak

about Marriott International’s passion and commitment to diversity and inclusion, andspecifically about Marriott’s efforts to promote the development of women-ownedbusinesses to provide services and goods to our hotels.

Since Alice S. Marriott co-founded the company in 1927,Marriott has had a long-standing history of empoweringwomen. It’s part of our culture to create opportunities forall associates. I know the commitment is real. RepresentingMarriott on the women’s empowerment panel, comprisedof CEOs, was one of those opportunities. I used theplatform to talk about Marriott’s pledge and sense of dutyand responsibility to the communities where we live anddo business. I also spoke about effective implementationof our programs by partnering with organizations likeVital Voices in Latin America and with WEConnectin other parts of the world, two prominent NGOs thatsupport and promote the economic potential of women.Marriott helps women achieve their dreams—it’swonderful to be part of the company.

This is particularly impactful to me as a Latina. Iam honored that Marriott International is being honoredas Company of the Year, for the second time byLATINA Style. This is a high achievement and I’mcertain the many talented and skilled Marriott Latinaswill feel a great sense of pride for this recognition and Iam thrilled to represent them here. I am also excited torepresent Marriott today, I’m proud of the company’s

Representing Proud Latinasat Marriott

emphasis on diversity and inclusion and knowfirsthand that women, including fellow Latinas, aregiven opportunities to develop skills and advancein senior leadership roles—to be mentored, valued,and respected.

This emphasis is felt at the headquarters level andis a particular focus for the Caribbean & LatinAmerica Region. Each year, our regional leadershipteam meets to discuss strategy and establish goals forthe coming year. These goals are continually reviewedand measured during the year at the regional level andalso by our executive senior leaders, including ourExecutive Chairman, Mr. Bill Marriott and our CEO,Mr. Arne Sorenson. Over the past several years, animportant component of our balanced score card hasbeen, and continues to be, centered specifically onidentifying high potential women in the region andimplementing individual career development pathsthat lead to leadership roles. Having spent a great dealof time in the field at our hotels and having had theopportunity to meet and get to know so many talentedLatinas, it is truly exciting to watch these wonderfulwomen thrive in their careers over time and be recognizedfor their accomplishments.

I have been with Marriott for 18 years, not longcompared to many colleagues in the Company, and animportant reason about what keeps me here is theCompany’s commitment to its core values. These valuesare manifested in the day-to-day activities of eachbusiness unit and discipline globally. Nearly 90 yearsago, the Marriott family established five core valuesthat are the foundation of Marriott’s culture. They are:Putting People First, Pursuit of Excellence, EmbraceChange, Act with Integrity, and Serve Our World.Today’s award touches upon each of these values in areal way—values that are also deeply interwoven intothe Latin culture. There are many wonderful storiesthroughout the region that illustrate how our Latin cultureembodies Marriott core values—it’s how we do businessin Latin America and I’m continuously inspired by myLatin colleagues.

It’s truly a privilege and honor to represent Marriott’sLatinas, LATINA Style.

CONNECT WITH NATIONAL LEADERS WHO ARE IMPACTING AND SHAPING OUR COMMUNITY EVERY DAY!

The Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute (CHCI) invites you to join thousands from around the country and across the globe in Washington, D.C. for the nation’s premier events commemorating Hispanic Heritage Month—CHCI’s Public Policy Conference and Annual Awards Gala. CHCI events provide an opportunity to connect our participants with a powerful network of Latino leaders and celebrate the best of our Hispanic culture, all while raising critical funds to continue and expand opportunities for the next generation of Latino leaders.

CHCI’s two-day Public Policy Conference on September 13-14 examines critical policy areas affecting the Latino community and the nation. This year’s theme, EDUCATE. ENGAGE. VOTE, will focus on how American Latinos are engaging in the political process and ensuring they are represented at the highest levels when decisions are made that affect the Hispanic community.

CHCI’s Annual Awards Gala on September 15 is our signature event that celebrates the achievements of the Latino community and convenes the largest and most prestigious gathering of Hispanic leaders in the nation. The evening’s festivities include musical entertainment, remarks by figures of national prominence, and our highest honors—the CHCI Medallion of Excellence awards.

hhm.chci.org | @CHCI | #2016HHM

REGISTER NOW! hhm.chci.org

Can’t Attend? Watch the webcast LIVE September 13-15, 2016 at hhm.chci.org

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