Latina Leadership Institute (LLI)

The San Antonio Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Latina Leadership Institute is a six-month program (one day per month) designed to build the skills, knowledge and confidence that today’s Latina Leaders need to succeed in their political aspirations of 1) running for elected office, 2) applying for positions on local, state, federal or corporate boards and commissions 3) applying for White House Appointee Positions, and/or 4) are interested in leadership roles within political campaign management.

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LLI 10 Steering Committee and Co-Chair Elect Applications: Closed

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LLI News & Events

SAHCC's Latina Leadership Institute Announces Members of 2025 LLI Steering Committee

November 15, 2024
We are thrilled to introduce the outstanding group of leaders who will be guiding the Latina Leadership Institute (LLI) into its 10th year! These incredible women bring a wealth of expertise, passion, and dedication to their roles, and we are excited for the vision and direction they will provide in this milestone year. Meet the LLI Class 10 Steering Committee: Laura Mayes - Co-Chair; Assistant Vice President, WSP Lily Garcia - Co-Chair; Marketing & Community Director, #IhaveaCPAguy Estrellita Garcia-Diaz - Co-Chair Elect LLI 11; Vice President-CRA Officer, Jefferson Bank Stephanie Melchor - Co-Chair Elect LLI 11; Communications and Change Management; Senior Analyst, Toyota Motor North America Marivel Arauza – Public Relations Manager, City of San Antonio Neighborhood and Housing Services Department Cristina Bazaldua – Regional Philanthropy Officer, American Red Cross Central and South Texas Region Tessa Benavides-Cooper – Director of Communications & Community Relations, Charles Butt Foundation Iliana Castillo Daily – Assistant City Attorney, City of San Antonio Andrea De La Cruz – Project Manager, DEI, Supplier Diversity, H-E-B Danielle Garcia – Senior Policy Advisor, United States Department of Housing and Urban Development Priscilla Hernandez – Chief Deputy for the Hon. Lucy Adame Clark Nadia Ramon – Owner, Dezynr Shop Vanessa Vasquez – Enterprise Technical Certifications & Learning Advisor, General Dynamics Information Technology Brandalyne Weitzel – Owner, Adret Counseling PLLC These powerful women represent the diversity, strength, and leadership of our community. We’re excited for what’s ahead and grateful for their commitment to shaping the future of Latina leadership. Thank you to San Antonio Hispanic Chamber Member Pink Shark Bar for hosting LLI 10!

LLI Steering Committee and Co-Chair Elect Applications Now Open for LLI 10

September 5, 2024
Join the Legacy:  Applications Now Open for LLI 10! As we prepare to celebrate a decade of empowering Latina leaders, we invite you to be part of the legacy. Applications are now open for the 2025 LLI 10 Steering Committee and the 2025-2026 LLI 10 Co-Chair Elect positions! This is a unique opportunity to forge the future, lead with purpose and make a lasting impact on our community. As we mark 10 years of leadership and growth, we're looking for passionate individuals ready to take the next step in their leadership journey.

SAHCC's Latina Leadership Institute Announces Members of 2024 Class

May 14, 2024
The San Antonio Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (SAHCC) is pleased to welcome its ninth cohort of inspiring leaders to the Latina Leadership Institute (LLI) .
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The LLI Mission:

To increase the number and influence of Hispanic Women in elected and appointed office positions in the United States. By doing so, we will impact a change to the current political landscape.

The program provides a highly personal experience that is tailored to help each Latina Leader cultivate skills that have never before been taught in one single program, with facilitators including local community and political leaders. The Latina Leadership Institute also provides a safe environment for learning and skill practice. Highly qualified facilitators provide participants with the personal insight and perspectives that will help them unlock their leadership potential and refine key leadership skills needed to achieve impactful, tangible results throughout their political career.


Workshops will feature facilitators and visiting Keynote Speakers as well as: City Council Leaders, Texas State Representatives, Past Texas and National Politicians, Past/Current White House Appointees, Campaign Managers, Business Leaders, and many more.

What Will I Learn?

Four key competencies are vital to all leaders, but play out in unique ways when Latina Leaders step into a political role:

Communication.

Communicate direction, achieve alignment and build commitment to continue to bridge the gender gap.

Influence.

Gain critical perspectives, create buy-in and manage politics through collaboration.

Learning Agility.

Solve complicated problems and take wise action amidst complex, rapidly changing conditions.

Self Awareness.

Build resiliency and leverage multiple life roles to effectively manage stress and become more effective.

LLI Application

TUITION:
$1000 Member Tuition*

* If you or the organization you are a part of is not an SAHCC Member, you have the option to become one at time of your acceptance. You must become a Bronze Member or higher.


APPLICATION DOCUMENTS:

Please have the following prepared to submit before clicking the button below.

  • Essay Questions:   (1) What sort of public service leadership role would you consider pursing in the future and why?  (2) Leadership and Campaign Experience and Aspirations (if any).  (3) List any boards and commissions you currently serve on (if any).  (4) What boards and commissions would you like to serve on in the future?  (5) What are your expectations of LLI and how do you anticipate this program will impact your professional and civic aspirations?  (6) Tell us about someone who inspires you and why.  (7) If interested in being considered for a needs-based scholarship, please share why you should be considered for financial assistance. 
  • Letter of Recommendation
  • 1-3 References
  • Resume
  • Headshot Profile Photo
  • Employer Commitment Form (click here to download)

2023 LLI Schedule

May 16, 2024 - LLI Welcome Reception 

May 24, 2024  - LLI Class Day 1 

June 21, 2024 - LLI Class Day 2 

July 26, 2024 - LLI Class Day 3 

August 23, 2024 - LLI Class Day 4 

September 27, 2024 - LLI Class Day 5 

October 25, 2024 - LLI Class Day 6 

November 8, 2024 - LLI Graduation 

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