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
Cafecito con HACE: Uniting Voices, Empowering Communities
Cafecito con HACE: Uniting Voices, Empowering Communities
Our weekly coffee chat comes to the summit! Join us for a live Cafecito con HACE segment.
Measuring Impact: Evaluating Success in Multi-Stakeholder Engagement
Measuring Impact: Evaluating Success in Multi-Stakeholder Engagement
Learn how to measure the effectiveness of stakeholder engagement efforts. This session will explore key metrics, tools, and strategies to assess the success of partnerships and ensure they align with organizational goals
Generational Storytelling: Bridging the Past, Present, and Future
Generational Storytelling: Bridging the Past, Present, and Future
This discussion centers on the role of generational storytelling in shaping identity and creating a vision for the future. Panelists will discuss how intergenerational dialogues strengthen community ties and foster empowerment within a multi-generational workforce.
Cybersecurity Foundations: Building a Secure Future in the Digital Age
Cybersecurity Foundations: Building a Secure Future in the Digital Age
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.
Bridging the Past, Present, and Future
Bridging the Past, Present, and Future
This discussion centers on the role of generational storytelling in shaping identity and creating a vision for the future. Panelists will discuss how intergenerational dialogues strengthen community ties and foster empowerment within a multi-generational workforce.
Inclusive Technology: Bridging Gaps in the Quantum and AI Era
Inclusive Technology: Bridging Gaps in the Quantum and AI Era
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
Chief Diversity Officer (CDO) Roundtable
Chief Diversity Officer (CDO) Roundtable
Private Event – Invite Only
Equity-Centered BRG/ERG Leadership: Guiding Teams in a Tech-Driven World
Equity-Centered BRG/ERG Leadership: Guiding Teams in a Tech-Driven World
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.
Employee Resource Group (ERG) Roundtable
Employee Resource Group (ERG) Roundtable
The ERG Leadership Roundtable is a convening of powerful ERG leaders and executive sponsors from HACE’s partner companies. The meeting is designed to bring these leaders to share insight and collaborate on ERG best practices.
Partnering for Purpose: ERGs and Organizations Driving Change Together
Partnering for Purpose: ERGs and Organizations Driving Change Together
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
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.
Digital Narratives: Harnessing Media to Elevate Diverse Voices
Digital Narratives: Harnessing Media to Elevate Diverse Voices
Dive into how media has transformed the landscape of storytelling, giving diverse voices unprecedented reach and influence. Panelists will share strategies for authentic online engagement, digital storytelling, and how digital platforms can also aid in attracting and hiring talent.
*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
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
3 sessions are available from 1:15 PM - 2:15 PM. 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
Patricia Mota
President & CEO, HACE
Linda Akutagawa
President & CEO, LEAP
Dayanna Torres
VP, Senior Program Officer, Ares Charitable Foundation
Delia Gutierrez McLaughlin
Chairwoman of HACE Advisory Council
Yezenia Sandoval
Dual Program Manager, Urban Alliance
Leah Williams
CEO of Digitalundivided
Janie Martinez Gonzalez
Founder & CEO, Webhead
Melanny Buitron Loor
Student Activities Assistant Director & Undocumented Student Liaison, Morton College
Refugio Atilano
Director of Cultural Competency in the Office of Health Literacy, AbbVie
Brianne Caplan
Executive Director and Founder at Code Your Dreams
Ana Cabral
Digital and Social Content Specialist, Barilla
Frankie Miranda
President & CEO, Hispanic Federation
Cesar Lostaunau
Global Director, Workforce Engagement, Morningstar
Mina Rabideaux
Global DEI Consultant
Brenda Duran
Los Angeles County Justice, Care & Opportunities Department
Alina Moran
Board of Directors, Chair
Melinda E. Ramirez
Tai Phoenix Consulting Founder & Principal Consultant
Angelica (Angie) Herrera
HR Business Partner Representative, United Airlines
Moji Akinde
Talent, Culture & Social Impact Strategist
Silvia Hinojosa
Logistics Load Planner
View more of this year’s speakers
Hotel & Parking Accommodations
The LaSalle Chicago, Autograph Collection
Address: 208 South LaSalle Street Chicago, Illinois, USA, 60604
Rate: $319.00 USD per night
To secure your room, the deadline to book is Monday, April 07, 2025.
The LaSalle Chicago, Autograph Collection is the preeminent destination within the heart of downtown Chicago. Located in The Loop 21 stories above street level, The LaSalle Chicago is above it all and above all expectations.
Sponsors
Champion Sponsors
Gold Sponsors
Silver Sponsors
Interested in sponsoring? Contact the Partnerships Team at partners@haceonline.org for more information.
Meet the team
Patricia Mota
President & Chief Executive Officer
Yasmin Mendoza-sewell
Chief Operating Officer
Devin Theobold
Director of Operations & Special Projects
Ana Ceppi
Fractional CMO
Araceli Lagunas
Senior Digital Media Manager
Alysa Iyana Grayson
Senior Partnership Engagement Manager
LISANDRA JIMENEZ
Senior Program Manager
Chelsea Paniagua
Marketing & Community Engagement Manager
Steve Sereno
Partnership Development Manager
Irma Rodriguez
Partnership Engagement Manager
Adriana Gorny
Partnership Engagement Manager
Bobbi Benegas
Executive Assistant
Bernice vargas luna
Program Manager
Steven Hodge
Program Manager
Noel Rodriguez
Program Manager
MONICA MAIZE
Human Resources Manager
JEILIN LAVARTA
Bookkeeper
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Donate to our 2025 Fundraising Campaign
With your support, we can help individuals overcome barriers, cultivate inclusive spaces, and step into leadership with confidence. Together, we can spark lasting change, equipping future generations with the resources they need to succeed and make a meaningful impact.
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of HACE Book
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