HACE is committed to advancing the professional development of individuals from underrepresented talent pools, with a focus on empowering Latinos and multicultural communities. Through our leadership programs, resources, and events, we aim to close representation gaps in industries where diversity has been historically lacking.

This year, the summit theme is “Juntos We Rise: Uplifting Tomorrow’s Leaders”. Over the course of this two-day hybrid event, the HACE community will engage in dynamic sessions led by subject matter experts from leading industries. Together, we’ll explore actionable strategies to break down barriers and champion equity, creating pathways to opportunity for all.

The word “Juntos,” meaning “together,” reflects the power of collective action. By uplifting one another, “We Rise” and drive our community forward. Join us in fostering a diverse, inclusive, and empowering professional environment where everyone can thrive and lead throughout their careers. Together, we’re building a brighter future.

Location: Convene at Willis Tower (233 S Wacker Dr., Chicago, IL 60606)

Don’t miss out on

Powerhouse Speakers

These thought leaders, innovators, and industry experts will share their expertise, experiences, and insights to empower and motivate attendees.

Awards Celebration

The HACE Awards Celebration recognizes outstanding individuals that have demonstrated exceptional achievements, leadership, and contributions in their respective fields.

A Hybrid Environment

Whether you are attending in-person or virtually, access the same stages together, meet the person sitting next to you AND chat with the virtual audience at the same time! Participate in live Q&A’s, in session chats, and polls.

Meaningful Connections

Be part of an exciting gathering of over 1,500 attendees, including influential leaders and professionals from diverse industries. This event offers a unique platform to expand your network, exchange ideas, and foster meaningful relationships.

Access to Content

You’ll have access to all recordings after the event is over, so you can go back and rewatch the sessions you didn’t catch live.

Full agenda*

This year’s summit tracks are designed to drive action and spark transformative change by exploring how collaboration, innovation, and storytelling can empower communities and organizations to thrive. Together, we’ll uncover powerful strategies to bridge sectors, adapt to the evolving workplace, and amplify diverse voices. Each session is packed with actionable insights and practical tools to advance equity, foster inclusion, and create lasting social impact in today’s interconnected world.

Day 1: April 30th

Cybersecurity Foundations: Building a Secure Future in the Digital Age

Cybersecurity Foundations: Building a Secure Future in the Digital Age

April 30, 20259:45 am - 10:45 amConvene Forum South

In today’s interconnected world, understanding the basics of cybersecurity is more important than ever, especially for communities navigating the complexities of modern technology. This session will introduce participants to foundational cybersecurity principles and highlight the critical role of AI in enhancing digital security. As technology evolves, particularly with advancements in AI and blockchain, it's essential to understand both the opportunities and risks these tools bring to digital security. Through real-world applications and expert insights, attendees will learn how to protect both organizational and personal data while navigating the digital landscape with confidence and awareness.

Inclusive Technology: Bridging Gaps in the Quantum and AI Era

Inclusive Technology: Bridging Gaps in the Quantum and AI Era

April 30, 202511:00 am - 12:00 pmConvene Forum South

This session will explore the transformative impact of quantum computing and artificial intelligence (AI) on the modern workplace, with a specific focus on how these technologies can shape inclusivity and fairness in the workplace. Attendees will gain a foundational understanding of AI and quantum computing before diving into discussions on how these innovations can either promote or disrupt inclusivity depending on their development and use. With a focus on practical application, the session will emphasize the importance of building AI models that reflect diverse perspectives and ensure equitable outcomes. The discussion will also highlight the power of AI to improve storytelling and enhance productivity, offering opportunities for both business owners and employees to harness technology for a more inclusive future.

Day 2: May 1st

Equity-Centered BRG/ERG Leadership: Guiding Teams in a Tech-Driven World

Equity-Centered BRG/ERG Leadership: Guiding Teams in a Tech-Driven World

April 30, 20259:00 am - 10:00 am

In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, BRG/ERG leaders play a critical role in guiding their teams through the complexities of technology-driven change. This session will explore how leadership strategies can be rooted in equity-centered approaches, ensuring that diverse teams are supported through technological advancements and that their contributions shape a more inclusive future. Attendees will learn how to navigate the intersection of technology and leadership while fostering an environment that values inclusivity, collaboration, and adaptability in the workplace.

Partnering for Purpose: ERGs and Organizations Driving Change Together

Partnering for Purpose: ERGs and Organizations Driving Change Together

May 1, 20259:00 am - 10:00 amConvene Forum North

ERGs can strengthen their impact by partnering with local nonprofits and community organizations. This session will explore strategies for creating partnerships that align with both ERG priorities and organizational structure needs. Panelists will share case studies of ERGs successfully driving social change through such collaborations.

Elevating Authors: Crafting Stories that Reshape Narrative

Elevating Authors: Crafting Stories that Reshape Narrative

May 1, 20259:00 am - 10:00 amConvene Hall South

This conversation brings together authors whose works have amplified diverse voices, challenged stereotypes, and celebrated the richness of multiple cultures. Panelists will discuss how their personal journeys, heritage, and cultural experiences inform their storytelling, and how literature can be a powerful medium for empowerment and social change. 

*Agenda is subject to change as session and speakers are finalized.

special programming*

To purchase tickets for the special programming listed below, a summit ticket must be purchased in advance, as these are sessions that will occur during the summit.

Day 1: April 30th

In-Person Coaching Corner

In-Person Coaching Corner

April 30, 202511:00 am - 12:00 pmThe Garden

3 sessions will occur at this time This event is offered in-person at the summit. Each individualized session is led by an HACE executive career coaches who will offer tools and insights to help unlock your potential! Personalized career guidance includes: resume reviews, interview prep, job search strategies, salary negotiations, networking tips, and more.

In-Person Coaching Corner

In-Person Coaching Corner

April 30, 20251:15 pm - 2:15 pmThe Garden

3 sessions will occur at this time This event is offered in-person at the summit. Each individualized session is led by an HACE executive career coaches who will offer tools and insights to help unlock your potential! Personalized career guidance includes: resume reviews, interview prep, job search strategies, salary negotiations, networking tips, and more.

*Agenda is subject to change as session and speakers are finalized.

Speakers

Alina Moran

Alina Moran

HACE Board Chair

President at Dignity Health – California Hospital Medical Center

Michael Alicea

Michael Alicea

HACE Board Vice Chair

Global Chief Human Resources Officer, Trellix

OLGA CAMARGO

OLGA CAMARGO

HACE Chair Emeritus

CEO & Founder, FARO Associates, LLC

Suheily Natal Davis

Suheily Natal Davis

HACE Board Secretary

VP, Global Chief Diversity Officer, McDonalds

LIZETTE ARIAS

LIZETTE ARIAS

HACE Board Treasurer

Director Ethics & Compliance,
Conagra Brands

Silvana Montenegro

Silvana Montenegro

HACE Board Member

Global Head of Hispanics & Latinos, JP Morgan Chase

Sylvia Gomez

Sylvia Gomez

HACE Board Member

Managing Director, Field Services Delivery & End User Engineering, United Airlines

Salvador Mendoza

Salvador Mendoza

HACE Board Member

Vice President Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, NBCUniversal

YAHAIRA CORONA

YAHAIRA CORONA

HACE Board Member

Manager of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, ALDI, US

Monica Villalobos

Monica Villalobos

HACE Board Member

President & CEO,
Arizona Hispanic Chamber
of Commerce

Tony Tenicela

Tony Tenicela

HACE Board Member

Vice President of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, Sodexo

ANA CEPPI

ANA CEPPI

HACE Board Member

Founder of Factivist, LLC  

Maria Elisa Martinez

Maria Elisa Martinez

HACE Board Member

Senior Vice President, North American Janssen
Johnson & Johnson

Tish Archie-Oliver

Tish Archie-Oliver

HACE Board Member

Chief Inclusion & Belonging Officer, Gap

Janie Cervera

Janie Cervera

HACE Board Member

Head of Wealth Client Services, BMO Harris Bank

Hotel & Parking Accommodations

JW Marriott Chicago

Address: 151 West Adams Street, Chicago, IL 60603
Rate: $289 per night excluding applicable taxes 17.4%. Available between 4/29/25-5/1/25

To secure your room, the deadline to book is Tuesday, April 1st.

Amenities & Benefits
King or Queen size bed, Daily Enhanced High-Speed Internet Access, Food & Beverage Credit $25 per day, Daily Fitness Class for up to 2 Guests, Two (2) admission tickets per stay to the Chicago Sports Museum
Parking: $88 per overnight with in and out privileges

Meet the team

Patricia Mota

Patricia Mota

President & Chief Executive Officer

Yasmin Mendoza-sewell

Yasmin Mendoza-sewell

Chief Operating Officer

Karina Rosado

Karina Rosado

Director of Marketing & Communications

Devin Theobold

Devin Theobold

Director of Operations & Special Projects

Araceli Lagunas

Araceli Lagunas

Senior Digital Media Manager

Alysa Iyana Grayson

Alysa Iyana Grayson

Senior Partnership Engagement Manager

LISANDRA JIMENEZ

LISANDRA JIMENEZ

Senior Program Manager

Chelsea Paniagua

Chelsea Paniagua

Marketing & Community Engagement Manager

Steve Sereno

Steve Sereno

Partnership Development Manager

Irma Rodriguez

Irma Rodriguez

Partnership Engagement Manager

Adriana Gorny

Adriana Gorny

Partnership Engagement Manager

Bobbi Benegas

Bobbi Benegas

Executive Assistant

Bernice vargas luna

Bernice vargas luna

Program Manager

Steven Hodge

Steven Hodge

Program Manager

Noel Rodriguez

Noel Rodriguez

Program Manager

MONICA MAIZE

MONICA MAIZE

Human Resources Manager

JEILIN LAVARTA

JEILIN LAVARTA

Bookkeeper

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