Who can become a member of HLN?

HLN is open to anyone who is passionate about leadership development and community engagement, regardless of background or industry.

Do I need to be Latino to join HLN?

No, HLN is open to all individuals. While our history is rooted in serving the Latino community, we welcome all underrepresented groups and allies who are dedicated to fostering leadership and making a positive impact.

How can I get involved with HLN’s initiatives?

You can get involved by attending our events, volunteering for leadership roles within our initiatives, or simply connecting with other members through our networking opportunities. Visit our Initiatives page for more details.

Are there any membership fees?

HLN is committed to making its programs and resources accessible to all. Most of our services are free, and there are no membership fees required to participate in the core activities.

How does HLN support the community?

Through various initiatives such as Cultural and Community Engagement, Leadership Development, and Language Access, HLN provides resources and opportunities for individuals to strengthen their leadership skills and contribute to community growth.

About Us

The Hispanic Leaders’ Network is a group of passionate leaders who are deeply vested in supporting current and future leaders in the Greater Waco community.

Our history

More Info

Our Vision

Develop and empower current and future leaders to make a difference in the community.

Our Mission

To provide personal, cultural, and professional opportunities to inspire Hispanic leaders to serve and make a positive impact.

Board of Directors

Dedicated professionals from diverse industries who guide our vision and ensure that our initiatives empower current and future leaders in the community

Board Chair

Elaine Botello

Elaine Botello is the board president and co-founder of the Hispanic Leaders' Network (HLN) and owns Victory Employer Services, LLC, providing Human Resources consultation and project-based services.

Board Secretary

Daniela Rodriguez

Daniela Rodriguez is a bilingual realtor with Turner Brothers Real Estate, dedicated to building strong relationships and helping clients achieve their real estate goals.

Board Member

Carlos Diaz, Esq.

Carlos Diaz is an attorney with over 5 years of experience. Carlos practices Criminal, Immigration, and Personal Injury Law. He has over 20 years experience managing insurance agencies and other businesses. Carlos has been an entrepreneur for over 25 years.

Board Member

Anali Looper, Esq.

Analí Looper is the managing attorney and director of the Waco office of American Gateways, a nonprofit providing immigration legal services.

Board Member

Maria Macias

Maria Macias is the Program Director at VOICE, a nonprofit dedicated to teaching critical life skills and promoting behavioral health and wellness. A proud Waco native and University High graduate, Maria was the first in her family to earn both a high school diploma and a college degree, overcoming significant challenges along the way. Maria is married to David, and together they raised five children. She is also a proud grandmother to many grandchildren, who bring immense joy to her life and who are the light of her life. After earning an Associate’s Degree in Applied Science from McLennan Community College (MCC) and a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Tarleton State University, Maria began her career as a medical lab technician before transitioning to education and community support. She spent 12 years as a financial aid specialist at MCC, where she helped countless students access higher education, and also volunteered as an advisor for the Hispanic Student Association. She joined VOICE in 2015 as an advisor for the College Achievement Program (CAP) and later helped lead Pathways to Success, a leadership program for high school students. In 2019, she was promoted to Program Director. She is deeply passionate about empowering individuals through education, leadership, and behavioral health initiatives, believing in the power of community support to change lives. In her role at VOICE, she finds fulfillment in combining her personal experiences, professional expertise, and passion for helping others..

Board Vice Chair

Dr. Anthony Luevanos

Dr. J. Anthony Luévanos lives to be a servant-leader, educator, and coach who equips leaders to strengthen families, uplift communities, and dwell in purpose with integrity. With two doctoral degrees and current study in nonprofit-focused business leadership, he brings a rare blend of academic depth and practical compassion. Dr. Luévanos has led over $2 million in funded non-profit initiatives supporting education, equity, and community renewal. Certified by Rice University’s Doerr Institute, he also provides coaching to emerging and experienced leaders across the country. Through his work with Good Neighbor Waco, Hispanic Leaders’ Network, and other grassroots efforts, he finds joy in building authentic relationships that empower people where they are. His life’s work reflects a deep commitment to faith, service, and walking with others toward meaningful impact.

Board Member

Dr. Zaragosa “Mito” Diaz-Espinoza

Dr. Mito Diaz-Espinoza (PhD) serves as the President and CEO of the Central-Texas Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. Throughout his career, he has led initiatives that amplify voices, dismantle barriers, and create sustainable change. Previously Mito served as the Director of Equity Initiatives at Waco Family Medicine and his work centered on building a culture of respect and belonging among staff and patients. He spent over 20 years in various areas of higher education including admissions, academic advising, diversity programs, leadership, Title IX, and civic engagement. Mito earned his undergraduate degree in History from Texas A&M University and his Master’s degree in Higher Education & Student Affairs from Baylor University. He earned his Ph.D. in Higher Education Administration from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, where his dissertation research investigated the motivations of first-generation Latino men to pursue college degrees. Mito is an avid reader and spends any and all free time with his daughter and wife. He is a Waco native and graduated from University High School and attended Waco ISD schools his entire pre-college academic career.

Board Member

Catelia Vazquez

A proud first-generation Waco native, Catelia earned a Bachelor of Science in Child and Family Studies from Baylor University after graduating top of her class from A.J. Moore Academy in Waco ISD. Currently serving as the Director of Operations for Transformation Waco, she is deeply committed to strengthening the community she calls home.

Board Member

Isabel Lozano

Isabel Lozano is the principal at Kendrick Elementary and has a diverse background in education, including roles as a teacher, instructional specialist, and assistant principal.

Board Member

Caelie Terrazas

Caelie Terrazas, a Waco native, holds a bachelor’s degree in corporate communication from Baylor University and a master’s degree in strategic communication and innovation from Texas Tech University. She also holds certificates in advanced social media practice and inclusive and ethical leadership. She serves on the boards of Waco Civic Theatre, Keep Waco Beautiful, and the advisory committee for the Waco Bridge. Caelie is a certified facilitator for the LeadershipPlenty Institute, a member of the Baylor Latinx Faculty and Staff Association, and a mentor to first-generation college students through Baylor’s Adelante program. Terrazas has worked at Baylor University for over five years and currently serves as Assistant Director of Community Relations, advancing the Baylor Waco Initiative by connecting university resources with local organizations and fostering collaboration throughout the city.

Board Treasurer

Brenda Hernandez

Brenda Hernandez is the Finance Director for the City of Woodway and a Certified Public Accountant. She attended Baylor University as a first-generation college student. After graduation, she began her career in public accounting at JRBT, where she served the audit department for 7 years. Brenda is currently involved with the Waco Young Professionals, Greater Waco Sports Commission, and serves in the Kids Ministry at Harris Creek Baptist Church. She currently resides in the Lorena area with her King Charles Cavalier Pup.

Board Member

Dr. Elizabeth Palacios

Dr. Elizabeth (Liz) D. Palacios is a first-generation student from San Antonio, Texas. She attended Baylor University where she received both her bachelor’s degree in business administration (’80) and master’s degree (’91) in student services and professional counseling. In 2002, she earned her Ph.D. in School Psychology at the University of Texas at Austin. After graduation, she joined Baylor in 1981 where she served in various areas including the Graduate School, where she was awarded a $96,000 federal grant to develop the first graduate minority recruitment scholarship and recruitment program.

Board Member

Pedro Zamora

Pedro Zamora was born in Rio Grande City, Texas, and at the age of four relocated with his family to Waco, Texas in pursuit of greater opportunities. Today, Pedro serves as a Media Executive with KWTX/Gray Digital Media, where he brings over 25 years of experience in customer service & sales to help businesses grow and connect with their audiences. Outside of his professional career, Pedro is a passionate musician, singing and playing the accordion with various ensembles, sharing his love for music with the community. Pedro is happily married and a proud father of three young girls, who keep him busy with school band events and weekend softball tournaments. He takes great pride in his Mexican heritage, which continues to influence both his personal and professional life.

Board Member

Judge J. Patrick Atkins

Judge J. Patrick Atkins practiced law in McLennan County for over 30 years prior to assuming the bench of County Court at Law #3 in March 2024. Judge Atkins has been active in the local community-- serving 17 years on the Waco ISD Board of Trustees, including ten years as President of the school board. He has held several leadership positions in the Waco community, including serving on the hospital Board of Directors for Ascension Providence in Waco and Ascension Seton Medical Center in Austin, being a founding board member of Prosper Waco, and serving on a number of boards and commissions for the City of Waco. He has served on the boards of the Texas Sports Hall of Fame, the Association for Good Government, Waco Civic Theatre, Community in Schools, the Cen-Tex Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Lake Air Little League, Friends of the Waco-McLennan County Library, and on the Advisory Committee of The Cove-Heart of Texas, Inc. He is a graduate of Leadership Waco Class XIII. Judge Atkins and his wife have three adult children and one grandson.

Our Commitment to
Community and Innovation

At HLN, we strive to create lasting impact through our initiatives. Our mission is to empower individuals and foster a vibrant community.

Learn More

2018

Founded in 2018 and implemented connectar; one of our first networking events (leadership development series)

2019

2019 established our mission and vision directives for a committed approach to leadership development and cultural engagement

2020

2020 served as a committee under hispanic chamber of commerce

2021

2021 formally became an independent non-profit, 501c3 status, established a board of directors. Leadership development series officially became conectar connect

2022

2022 officially launched all current initiatives; navegando mentorship program, language access toolkit, official cultural and events

2023

2023 started our first annual FUNdraiser latino night and enhanced our cultural and community engagement by activating spaces that were typically not activated by minorities. Expanded our network of leaders into community boards and committees.

2024

2024 started navegando scholarship program, first high school scholarships awarded by HLN

Meet the Staff

Our team supports HLN's Board of Directors and Ambassadors in advancing the organization's mission and initiative.

Director of Development and Community Engagement

Hector Sabido

Bio Coming Soon...

Communications and Events Coordinator

Johanna Angeles

Bio Coming Soon...

Meet Our '26-'27 Ambassadors

Connecting . Serving . Representing . Leading

Ambassador Program

Committee Chair

Mackenzie Olvera

Bio Coming Soon...

Ambassador Program
Committee Chair Assistant

Caelie Terrazas

Caelie Terrazas, a Waco native, holds a bachelor’s degree in corporate communication from Baylor University and a master’s degree in strategic communication and innovation from Texas Tech University. She also holds certificates in advanced social media practice and inclusive and ethical leadership.

She serves on the boards of Waco Civic Theatre, Keep Waco Beautiful, and the advisory committee for the Waco Bridge. Caelie is a certified facilitator for the LeadershipPlenty Institute, a member of the Baylor Latinx Faculty and Staff Association, and a mentor to first-generation college students through Baylor’s Adelante program.

Terrazas has worked at Baylor University for over five years and currently serves as Assistant Director of Community Relations, advancing the Baylor Waco Initiative by connecting university resources with local organizations and fostering collaboration throughout the city.

2nd Year Ambassador

Jesse Botello

Bio Coming Soon

2nd Year HLN Ambassador

Vera Castillo

Bio Coming Soon...

1st Year HLN Ambassador

Vince Erikson

Vince Erickson defines his life through service, guided first and foremost by his faith in Jesus Christ. This commitment to serving others drives his work both in the newsroom and throughout Central Texas.
As the Special Projects Director and Weekend Anchor for KWKT-TV Fox 44, Vince leads impactful storytelling that has earned top honors, including a Lone Star Emmy and a Texas Association of Broadcasters Award. Beyond the anchor desk, he puts his faith into action through extensive community leadership—serving on
the Boards of Directors for The Arc of McLennan County and the Waco Rotary Club – as well as on the Administrative Council at First Woodway Methodist Church -- and serves as an Ambassador for both the Hispanic Leaders Network and the Greater Waco Chamber.

At home, Vince stays grounded by his family: his wife Mary, their two teenagers, Malia and D.J., and a busy house with two dogs and two cats. In his spare time, he stays active as a competitive Spartan Race athlete and a NASM-certified Personal Trainer.

2nd Year HLN Ambassador

Edith Cortes

Ambassador Program

Committee Chair

1st Year HLN Ambassador

Rosa Flores

Rosa Flores is the founder of Raíz HR Consulting and an experienced HR leader with more than a decade of experience helping organizations navigate employee relations, workplace challenges, and people strategy. A mom of four, Rosa is passionate about building a life that shows her children the importance of hard work, community, and knowing they belong in every room they enter.

She loves connecting people, supporting local businesses, and becoming more involved in the Waco community. Whether through her work, networking, or community involvement, Rosa hopes to use her experience and voice to create connections, open doors, and help others recognize the value they bring to the table.

1st Year HLN Ambassador

Senada Flores

Senada “Sunny” Flores is the owner of Sweet Treats & Bakehouse and a passionate community connector in Waco. She enjoys building relationships with entrepreneurs, networking, and identifying ways to support local businesses and the surrounding community. For more than 10 years,

Senada has also volunteered to connect soldiers, families, and unit leadership to help build mutual support and readiness locally. As an HLN Ambassador, she looks forward to bringing Hispanic leaders together, joining forces, and encouraging Waco to become more involved, connected, and united as one team.

Outside of her work, Senada loves spending time with family and friends, traveling, watching HGTV and baking competitions, and discovering new foods and desserts to try.

1st Year HLN Ambassador

Cynthia Galvez

Bio Coming Soon...

2nd Year HLN Ambassador

Janie Gonzales-Shattuck

Bio Coming Soon...

2nd Year Ambassador

Marie Graham

Bio Coming Soon...

2nd Year Ambassador

Julio Jardon

Julio Jardon is the Operations Manager at Element Waco, where he is known for his leadership and ability to build meaningful connections. He is actively involved in the Waco community, serving as an ambassador for the Hispanic Leaders Network (HLN) and Greater Waco Chamber of Commerce.

Julio is excited to serve as an HLN ambassador because it allows him to uplift Hispanic voices, welcome new members, and create opportunities for connection and growth. Born and raised in Toluca, Mexico, he moved to Waco in 2012. Outside of work, Julio enjoys dancing, attending classic car shows, traveling, exploring

local food and drink spots, and spending time with friends.

2nd Year HLN Ambassador

Cecy Holubec

Cecy Holubec is an award-winning photographer and owner of Photography by Cecy, proudly serving the Waco area since 2010. Specializing in newborn, maternity, family, seniors and headshots. Cecy is passionate about creating meaningful images and giving back to her community. She is also an educator, speaker, and active member of Waco business community.

2nd Year Ambassador

Karla Lange

As a first-generation American with roots in Mexico, I am passionate about serving and educating the Hispanic community. As a nurse and geriatric health advocate, I am dedicated to helping older adults and their families navigate the healthcare system and access the resources they need to thrive.

My mission is to connect individuals with the right healthcare services, community programs, and support systems that promote health, independence, and quality of life. I believe that education and access to resources empower families to make informed decisions and help seniors remain safe, healthy, and independent in their own homes for as long as possible.

Building relationships and serving as a community resource are at the heart of what I do. If you are looking for healthcare-related resources, guidance, or connections, I have an extensive network of trusted professionals and would be happy to connect you with the right people to meet your needs.

2nd Year Ambassador

Luis Robles

Bio Coming Soon...

2nd Year Ambassador

Mercedes Stovall

Mercedes Stovall is a local business owner, community advocate, and proud mother of four who is passionate about leadership, service, and creating opportunities for others. She serves on the MACT Board and Baylor Club Council and is an ambassador for both the Cen-Tex Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and the Hispanic Leaders Network.

Through her businesses and community involvement, Mercedes enjoys building relationships, supporting local families, and helping strengthen the Central Texas community. As an HLN Ambassador, she looks forward to connecting with fellow leaders, celebrating Hispanic culture, and helping create a stronger voice and brighter future for the next generation.

2nd Year Ambassador

Roxanna Segovia

Bio Coming Soon

1st Year HLN Ambassador

David Villareal

Bio Coming Soon

2nd Year Ambassador

Julia Zamora

Bio Coming Soon

Ambassador Program

Past Chair

Pedro Zamora

Pedro Zamora was born in Rio Grande City, Texas, and at the age of four relocated with his family to Waco, Texas in pursuit of greater opportunities. Today, Pedro serves as a Media Executive with KWTX/Gray Digital Media, where he brings over 25 years of experience in customer service & sales to help businesses grow and connect with their audiences.

Outside of his professional career, Pedro is a passionate musician, singing and playing the accordion with various ensembles, sharing his love for music with the community.
Pedro is happily married and a proud father of three young girls, who keep him busy with school band events and weekend softball tournaments. He takes great pride in his Mexican heritage, which continues to influence both his personal and professional life.