Elena Mendoza Appointed Executive Director of Latinas First Foundation
Elena Mendoza is a seasoned leader with a heart for service. A proud first-generation Latina, Mendoza holds leadership experience in the field of education, having served as a classroom teacher, assistant principal, and senior education director for a foundation.
As a public-school educator, she understands the power behind knowledge, which is why she has continued her own education. Mendoza has a Bachelor's degree in Interdisciplinary studies with an emphasis in Elementary Education and a Master's degree in Administration and Supervision.
She is an alumna of the Circle of Latina Leadership, EMERGE Colorado, CLLARO Latino Civic Leadership training, and most recently, the Latino Leadership Institute. Mendoza has served on various nonprofit boards throughout the Denver Metro area and currently sits on the Denver’s Commission for People with Disabilities and the Denver’s Women’s Commission.
Port of Oakland Appoints Emilia Sánchez as its First Woman Director of Engineering
The Port of Oakland has appointed Emilia Sánchez as its new Director of Engineering. The first woman and first Latina to serve in this leadership position at the Port, Sánchez joined the Port in February as an Engineering Project Manager. Sánchez spent over a decade at BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit), where she served in various positions. She managed the development of the Hayward Maintenance Complex, managed the BART Headquarters Tenant Improvement in Oakland, worked on the Earthquake Safety Program and the Oakland Airport Connector.
Sánchez brings to the Port’s Director of Engineering position a depth of experience combining technical engineering background with expertise in managing multi-discipline, cross-functional, stakeholder engaging teams and projects. Her integrated skill sets are ideal for delivering the variety of projects the Port will undertake in its transition to a zero emissions port.
“I look forward to drawing upon my experience in managing large projects with my varied educational foundation and a personal commitment to the community,” said Port Director of Engineering Emilia Sánchez. “I was born and raised in Oakland and am excited to oversee the planning and implementation of projects that will deliver cleaner operations to protect our environment while improving the Port.”
Maria Fernandez Appointed New York State Deputy Secretary of Education
Maria Fernandez is an accomplished and multifaceted leader with an extensive background in legal and compliance, corporate leadership, and community service. As the NYS Deputy Secretary of Education appointed by Governor Hochul, Fernandez plays a crucial role in shaping and implementing the state's education strategy.
Fernandez 's experience spans over 20 years at IBM, where she served as a legal and compliance executive and as a trusted business advisor. Her subsequent role as Vice President and Chief Compliance Officer at Direct Energy in Houston further demonstrates her leadership capabilities and versatility in different industries.
Additionally, she has made significant contributions to the community. Her involvement as a School Board trustee, a former Board Member for Latino Justice, chairing the President's Council of Cornell Women, and co-founding the Latino Lawyers of Cornell showcase her dedication to education and gender equality.
Her influence extends to the academic realm, where she serves as an adjunct professor at Fordham Law School's Compliance LLM program. Beyond her official roles, Fernandez co-launched the Blazing Ember Podcast, showcasing Latinx leaders and providing insights into their professional journeys. Most recently, she served as an Advisory Consultant for Employment Practices Solutions and is an Adjunct Professor at Fordham Law School in their L.L.M. Compliance Program.
LATINA Style Magazine Vol.30#3