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
HLN members include leaders from top organizations and industries




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
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 in corporate communications from Baylor University and a master’s in strategic communication and innovation from Texas Tech University, along with certificates in advanced social media practice and inclusive and ethical leadership.

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.

Board Member
Alonzo McAdoo Jr.
Alonzo McAdoo Jr. currently serves as the Executive Director of Secondary Education for Waco Independent School District, where he oversees six secondary campuses, including Waco High School and University High School. With over a decade of experience in school leadership, Mr. McAdoo is deeply committed to improving instructional quality, student achievement, and campus culture across all secondary levels.

Board Member
Dr. Zaragosa “Mito” Diaz-Espinoza
Dr. Mito Diaz-Espinoza (PhD) currently serves as the Director of Equity initiatives at Waco Family Medicine and his work centers 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.

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
Pedro Zamora
Pedro Zamora was born in Rio Grande City, Texas. At the age of 4, his parents
relocated to Waco, Texas in pursuit of better opportunities. Currently, Pedro serves as a public relations and sales associate at Jack of All Trades Personnel Services and brings over 25 years of experience in customer service and sales to his role.

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
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.
Previous Board Members
Board Member
Josh Caballero
Board Member
Dr. Barbara Baggerly-Hinojosa
Board Member
Ilda Sabido
Board Member
Joel Martinez
