
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.
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.
Corporate-Community Synergy: Building Win-Win Partnerships
Corporate-Community Synergy: Building Win-Win Partnerships
Explore how companies and communities can work together to create mutually beneficial partnerships. Panelists will highlight case studies where corporate support has enhanced community engagement and driven social progress.
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
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.
Chief Diversity Officer (CDO) Roundtable
Chief Diversity Officer (CDO) Roundtable
Private Event – Invite Only
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 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
HACE Board Chair
President at Dignity Health – California Hospital Medical Center

Michael Alicea
HACE Board Vice Chair
Global Chief Human Resources Officer, Trellix

OLGA CAMARGO
HACE Chair Emeritus
CEO & Founder, FARO Associates, LLC

Suheily Natal Davis
VP, Global Chief Diversity Officer, McDonalds

LIZETTE ARIAS
HACE Board Treasurer
Director Ethics & Compliance,
Conagra Brands

Silvana Montenegro
HACE Board Member
Global Head of Hispanics & Latinos, JP Morgan Chase

Sylvia Gomez
HACE Board Member
Managing Director, Field Services Delivery & End User Engineering, United Airlines

Salvador Mendoza
HACE Board Member
Vice President Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, NBCUniversal

YAHAIRA CORONA
HACE Board Member
Manager of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, ALDI, US

Monica Villalobos
HACE Board Member
President & CEO,
Arizona Hispanic Chamber
of Commerce

Tony Tenicela
HACE Board Member
Vice President of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, Sodexo

ANA CEPPI
HACE Board Member
Founder of Factivist, LLC

Maria Elisa Martinez
HACE Board Member
Senior Vice President, North American Janssen
Johnson & Johnson

Tish Archie-Oliver
HACE Board Member
Chief Inclusion & Belonging Officer, Gap

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
President & Chief Executive Officer

Yasmin Mendoza-sewell
Chief Operating Officer

Karina Rosado
Director of Marketing & Communications

Devin Theobold
Director of Operations & Special Projects

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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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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