Bridging Culture and Profession: A Latina Leader’s Journey in Education and Equity

By Professor Lori Marie Huertas, Doctoral Candidate

In the world of education, where every interaction shapes a student’s future, culture is not just a backdrop—it’s a guiding force. As a Latina, first-generation college graduate, and advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), my professional journey has been deeply intertwined with my cultural identity. From my roots in Puerto Rico to my role as a bilingual professor, mentor, and industry partnership leader, I’ve seen firsthand how culture and profession fuel one another, creating a space where students from diverse backgrounds feel seen, valued, and empowered.  

My upbringing—rich in resilience, storytelling, and the belief that education opens doors—has shaped my approach to mentoring students and advocating for systemic change. Whether I’m engaging first-generation students in career readiness, designing DEI-focused initiatives, or guiding military families through higher education pathways, I bring my culture into every conversation.  

Honoring Heritage Through Advocacy  

Growing up as the daughter of Puerto Rican parents who worked hard to provide a better life, I understood early on the value of community and perseverance. In my professional life, this has translated into a passion for equity-minded leadership—ensuring that students, especially Hispanic women in STEM and military-affiliated learners, have the tools and mentorship they need to succeed in predominantly white institutions (PWIs).  

Through my work in career engagement, faculty development, and research, I strive to create experiential learning opportunities that connect underrepresented students with industry professionals. Whether it's launching career treks, hosting workplace equity summits, or designing action research projects for critical thinking workshops, my goal is to build bridges between academia and industry.  

The Power of Storytelling in Education  

As a bilingual children’s book author and literacy advocate, I have seen how storytelling nurtures identity, heals generational wounds, and fosters connections. Stories—whether told in classrooms, boardrooms, or through literature—have the power to uplift voices that have long been marginalized. My father, who remains my greatest inspiration, taught me that education and storytelling go hand in hand. Today, I use this belief to mentor first-generation students, helping them navigate a world that was not necessarily built for them but can certainly be reshaped by them.  

Transformational Leadership: A Culturally Rooted Approach  

As a leader using such tools as INFJ and DiSC that identify individuals' personalities and behavioral styles,, I view leadership through transformation. It’s about managing tasks and empowering individuals to reach their full potential. I take a holistic, culturally responsive approach to leadership, whether in higher education, nonprofit work, or corporate partnerships.  

From working with military families to advocating for paid internships for students of color, my leadership philosophy is simple: Rrepresentation matters, and access changes lives. By championing mentorship, hands-on learning, and policy change, I aim to create pathways that allow students from all walks of life to thrive.  

A Call to Action: Embracing Culture in the Workplace  

In a world where industries are becoming increasingly diverse, integrating cultural identity into professional spaces is no longer optional—it’s essential. Whether you are an educator, employer, or policymaker, consider this: How does culture influence the way you lead, mentor, and innovate?  

Culture is the foundation of my purpose. It fuels my advocacy, shapes my research, and deepens my connections with students and industry leaders. As we build equitable, inclusive workplaces and educational institutions, embracing culture is the key to unlocking potential, fostering innovation, and ensuring that every student, employee, and leader can bring their whole selves into their profession.  

Final Thoughts: Leading with Heart and Heritage  

My journey—from a first-generation student to a bilingual professor and DEI leader—has reinforced one powerful truth: Success is not just about where you work; it’s about whom you uplift along the way.  

By embracing our cultural identities, we transform industries, empower future generations, and create legacies that honor those who came before us. As I continue my work in education, career development, and equity advocacy, I remain committed to ensuring that professional success is accessible to all—especially those whose voices have yet to be fully heard.  

To all students, professionals, and leaders navigating the intersection of culture and career—your heritage is your strength, your profession is your platform, and your impact is limitless.