Press Room
Your source for news and updates on Association Latinos' mission to elevate Latino leadership in the association and nonprofit sectors.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Media Contact:
Josie Hernandez, IOM
Association Latinos
Board of Directors
contact@associationlatinos.org
October 26, 2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Association Latinos Announces The Avanza CAE Scholarship Recipients
Chicago, Illinois – Association Latinos proudly celebrates the inaugural recipients.
The Avanza CAE Scholarship recognizes and supports individuals who demonstrate strong potential for continued success and a clear commitment to advancing the association profession. Developed under the CAE Se Puede Program, the scholarship was made possible through a partnership with Dr. Michael Carr-Tatonetti, CPP, CAE, and Pricing for Associations. This program reflects Association Latinos' commitment to advancing Latino Leadership in the association industry and removing barriers to professional credentialing.
The scholarship is designed to empower emerging leaders by providing funding to pursue the Certified Association Executive (CAE) credential.
The recipients are:
Hazel Iglesias
Hazel Iglesias serves as the Director of Governance, Engagement & Operations for the Association of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Nurses (APHON) and Director of Association Solutions at MCI USA, bringing more than 12 years of association management experience across membership growth, volunteer engagement, governance, operations, and client leadership. Iglesias partners with board executives, volunteer leaders, and staff teams to strengthen organizational performance and outcomes, strengthen member value, and support leadership pipelines. She is passionate about helping emerging professionals move beyond mentorship and become strategic partners who contribute meaningfully to organizational priorities, innovation, and association success. Iglesias serves on the ASAE NextGen Advisory Council as the goalkeeper for Learning Experiences, belongs to the ASAE Hispanic Association Executives Community Resource Group, and has discovered her newfound passion for speaking on leadership development, nonprofit operations, and membership strategy.
Elizabeth Mains
Elizabeth Mains is an association professional with a background in higher education, student success, and relationship management. Before entering the association world, she spent nearly three years at DePaul University supporting students throughout their collegiate journeys, helping them access resources, build connections, and work toward their academic and professional goals. She holds an MBA from DePaul University’s Kellstadt Graduate School of Business. In June 2025, Elizabeth took a leap of faith and transitioned into the association profession by joining the Society of Actuaries (SOA). She supports university and candidate engagement initiatives that help strengthen the actuarial talent pipeline, including the U.S. Student Ambassador Program. Her work brings together students, universities, volunteers, and other stakeholders to build meaningful relationships and create opportunities for future actuaries.
Alexander Martinez
Alexander Martinez has been in the association space for five years and currently serves as the Education & Speaker Relations Manager at the School Nutrition Association (SNA), where he supports the development of educational programming at conferences and cultivates strong relationships with industry speakers. In prior roles at SNA, he worked on a multi-million-dollar grant to create leadership & communications training and oversaw a cadre of specialized trainers. He is also actively engaged in the association community, having just completed his 3-year volunteering cycle with ASAE’s NextGen Committee as the Professional Development Goalkeeper, creating programming specifically for young professionals. In addition to professional development, Alex has a passion for event planning and is the Vice-Chair of Association Latinos’ Events & Networking Committee responsible for planning logistics for events like Noche Latina & Conexiones.
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About Association Latinos:
Association Latinos is dedicated to empowering and promoting Latino association professionals across diverse industries. Association Latinos aims to advance the presence and influence of Latino leaders within associations and contribute to the development of a more inclusive and representative association industry.
Website: www.associationlatinos.org
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/association-latinos
Questions? Email awards@associationlations.org
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Media Contact:
Josie Hernandez, IOM
Association Latinos
Board of Directors
contact@associationlatinos.org
Association Latinos Announces 2026 Honores Awards Program Recipients
CHICAGO, IL - September 8, 2026 – Association Latinos proudly celebrates the 2026 Honores recipients. This year’s honorees—the Estrella, Inspira, Impacto, and Alianza Award recipients exemplify outstanding contributions to their associations, the broader association profession, and the Latino community. Each award reflects Association Latinos' core mission: to advance Latino representation, leadership, and inclusion within associations, and to foster a more diverse and equitable association industry.
“On behalf of the Association Latinos Board of Directors, congratulations to our 2026 Estrella, Inspira, Impacto, and Alianza honorees. Honores exists to shine a light on excellence across our community. In the individuals who lead, in the organizations that invest in our people, and in the allies who stand with us. Each recipient shows what our profession looks like at its best. I am proud to recognize them, and prouder still of the path they set for those who come next.” said Carlos Cardenas,CAE, AaiP, Association Latinos Board President.
The 2026 Estrella Award recipient is: Alex Morales, CAE, Executive Director, Bostrom
The 2026 Inspira Award recipient is: Giovanna Salazar, Senior Marketing Manager, Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE)
The 2026 Impacto Award recipient is: Cristina Garcia, Founder & Executive Director, Latinxs in Sustainability
The 2026 Alianza Award recipient is: Black Association Executives (BAE)
The 2026 award recipients will be recognized on November 5th at Association Latinos Honores Awards Ceremony in connection with the November 6th Conexiones Educational Summit in Chicago, IL. They will also be inducted into the Association Latinos Sala de Honor.
The Board of Directors extends its gratitude to the Awards and Recognition Committee members for generously sharing their time and expertise to advance the awards program.
For sponsorship opportunities, media inquiries, or more information about the awards ceremony, please contact Association Latinos at contact@associationlatinos.org.
About the Estrella Award
The Estrella Award is presented to an association professional who has had a profound impact on the development and progression of their association and the association profession overall, in the context of the Association Latinos mission.
About the Inspira Award
The Inspira Award recognizes an early-career association professional who, in the context of the Association Latinos mission, has demonstrated high potential for continued success through strong passion for and commitment to their association and the association profession overall.
About the Impacto Award
The Impacto Award is presented to an individual who has made significant contributions to advancing Latino leadership, representation, and cultural visibility within their workplace, community, or professional organization.
About the Alianza Award
The Alianza Award is presented to an organization that has contributed toward more inclusive Latino leadership, representation, and culture in the workplace, community, and/or organization.
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About Association Latinos:
Association Latinos is dedicated to empowering and promoting Latino association professionals across diverse industries. Association Latinos aims to advance the presence and influence of Latino leaders within associations and contribute to the development of a more inclusive and representative association industry.
Website: www.associationlatinos.org
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/association-latinos
Questions? Email awards@associationlations.org
Previous Press Releases
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Association Latinos Announces Morningstar as Host Location for Honores Award Reception and Conexiones in Downtown Chicago
CHICAGO, IL - August 5, 2026– Association Latinos is proud to announce that Morningstar, a leading provider of independent investment insights, data, and research, will serve as the host location for both the Honores Award Reception and the Conexiones Summit. The events will be held at Morningstar's Chicago office, located at 22 W. Washington Street, Chicago, Illinois.
The Honores Award Reception, taking place on the evening before the Conexiones Summit, will celebrate outstanding Latino leaders and allies whose contributions have advanced the association profession and strengthened the communities they serve. The following day, the Conexiones Summit will bring together Latino professionals working in associations, community leaders, allies, and emerging talent to foster meaningful relationships, expand professional networks, and celebrate the power of connection across the industry and communities.
As a globally recognized financial services company, Morningstar is committed to empowering better financial outcomes through trusted data, research, and technology. The company's "Where Data Speaks" initiative highlights how data-driven insights help organizations and investors make informed decisions on critical topics such as private markets, artificial intelligence, and investment risk management.
"As one of the leading associations for Latinos in the association industry, Association Latinos is excited to partner with Morningstar as the host of Honores y Conexiones," said Marissa Lopez, CAE, Events Committee Board Liaison. "We look forward to the start of a meaningful and lasting partnership and to working together to create an impactful experience for our community."
Morningstar's downtown Chicago headquarters provides a dynamic and collaborative environment that reflects the spirit of both Honores and Conexiones by bringing people together to celebrate achievement, exchange ideas, foster professional development, and strengthen community relationships.
The events are expected to attract professionals from the association management community, offering attendees the opportunity to recognize industry leaders, network with peers, learn from fellow professionals, and engage with individuals who are helping shape the future of associations and the Latino professional community.
Association Latinos extends its sincere appreciation to Morningstar for supporting these important initiatives and for providing a space where recognition, relationships, and opportunities can flourish.
About Association Latinos
Association Latinos is dedicated to fostering professional development, leadership, networking, and community engagement among Latino professionals and allies. Through events, partnerships, and educational opportunities, the organization works to create pathways for success and strengthen diverse professional communities.
About Morningstar
Morningstar is a leading provider of independent investment insights and data. The company helps investors, asset managers, financial advisors, and institutions make informed decisions through research, analytics, technology, and comprehensive investment data solutions. Morningstar's "Where Data Speaks" platform highlights how data can inform strategies and improve investment outcomes across evolving market landscapes.
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Association Latinos and National Hispanic Corporate Council Announce Strategic Alliance to Expand Opportunities and Impact Across Latino Communities
Chicago, IL — July 17, 2026 — Association Latinos today announced a new strategic alliance with the National Hispanic Corporate Council (NHCC), formalized through the signing of an official Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). This partnership underscores a shared commitment to advancing opportunities, collaboration, and impact for Latino communities across both the nonprofit and for-profit sectors.
The alliance brings together the strengths of two organizations dedicated to fostering leadership, professional development, community engagement, and economic growth. Through the formalized relationship, Association Latinos and NHCC will work collaboratively to create meaningful connections, share resources, and expand access to organizations committed to supporting Latino advancement.
“This strategic alliance represents an important milestone for Association Latinos as we continue to strengthen our reach and impact,” said Carlos Cardenas, CAE, AAiP, Board President of Association Latinos. “By partnering with NHCC, we are creating new pathways for collaboration that will help us better serve Latino professionals, businesses, associations, and communities nationwide.”
As part of the agreement, Association Latinos will gain greater access to associations and organizations that maintain existing relationships with NHCC. This expanded network will provide new opportunities for engagement, partnership development, knowledge sharing, and joint initiatives that benefit members and stakeholders across multiple industries.
The collaboration reflects the growing importance of cross-sector partnerships in addressing the needs and aspirations of Latino communities. By leveraging their respective networks and expertise, Association Latinos and NHCC aim to foster greater inclusion, strengthen leadership pipelines, and support sustainable growth within both community-based and corporate environments.
“Our organizations share a vision of empowering communities and employers creating opportunities for success,” said Eduardo Arabu, MSPPM, CAE, CEO of National Hispanic Corporate Council. “This agreement establishes a strong foundation for collaboration and positions us to make an even greater impact together.”
The Memorandum of Understanding outlines a framework for ongoing cooperation, including strategic engagement opportunities, information exchange, collaborative programming, and initiatives designed to increase visibility and participation among Latino professionals and organizations.
As Association Latinos continues to expand its mission and influence, this alliance with NHCC reinforces its commitment to serving as a bridge between nonprofit organizations, associations, corporations, and community leaders working to advance Latino representation and success.
About Association Latinos
Association Latinos is dedicated to advancing Latino leadership, engagement, and professional growth within associations and related industries. Through networking, education, advocacy, and strategic partnerships, Association Latinos creates opportunities that empower Latino professionals and strengthen communities.
About the National Hispanic Corporate Council (NHCC)
The National Hispanic Corporate Council (NHCC) brings together corporate and community leaders to promote opportunities, leadership development, and economic advancement within Hispanic and Latino communities through collaboration, engagement, and strategic partnerships.
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We're excited to share that Association Latinos is launching a new program to support association professionals achieve the Certified Association Executive (CAE) credential.
Chicago IL. — January 26, 2026 — Association Latinos is proud to announce the launch of CAE Se Puede, a new program designed to support Latino association professionals in achieving the Certified Association Executive (CAE) credential. As part of this initiative, we are also introducing the CAE Se Puede Exam Fund, made possible through a founding partnership with Dr. Michael Tatonetti and Pricing for Associations. The fund will provide financial assistance to help offset exam costs for eligible candidates. This program reflects our commitment to advancing Latino leadership in the association industry and removing barriers to professional credentialing.
Carlos Cardenas, CAE, AAiP, Board President, Association Latinos states "The CAE credential opens doors to leadership opportunities in our industry, and CAE Se Puede ensures that Latino professionals have the support they need to walk through them. This program is about more than a credential. It's about investing in future Latino association leaders."
Dr. Michael Tatonetti, CPP, CAE, Founding Partner of the CAE Se Puede Exam Fund, Founder and CEO, Pricing for Associations says "When more professionals have access to high-quality education and credentials, the entire community becomes stronger. At Pricing for Associations, we're honored to partner with Association Latinos to launch the CAE Se Puede Exam Fund and help establish the CAE Se Puede program as a lasting source of opportunity. We're excited to invest in this work and support association professionals for many years to come."
About Association Latinos - Association Latinos is a nonprofit network dedicated to empowering Latino professionals in the association sector through community, advocacy, and recognition. Through its annual awards, professional development initiatives, and leadership programs, Association Latinos works to elevate Latino voices and foster more inclusive associations
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Partnership formalized through an MOU to expand leadership development, advance equity, and strengthen workforce opportunity and community impact for Latino professionals.
CHICAGO, IL – Association Latinos and the Hispanic Alliance for Community Enhancement (HACE) today announced a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) establishing a strategic alliance to advance shared goals related to leadership development, equity, workforce opportunity, and community impact for Latino professionals.
Rooted in reciprocity, mutual benefit, and mission alignment, the alliance will support engagement opportunities designed to increase access to professional networks, career pathways, and resources for Latino talent across sectors.
● Leadership development: joint learning experiences and leadership pathways for emerging and established leaders
● Workforce opportunity: expanded access to career resources, mentors, and employer connections
● Equity and community impact: coordinated efforts to strengthen inclusive practices and community-based outcomes
“This strategic alliance sends a strong signal that Latino-serving organizations are coming together with purpose,” said Carlos Cardenas, CAE, AAiP, Board President of Association Latinos. “Association Latinos and HACE are committed to preparing, developing, and advancing the Latino professional—to learn, to lead, and to grow.”
“I’m proud of what this alliance represents and what we will accomplish for our communities,” said Cristian Biviano, Vice President of Leadership Programs at HACE. “Especially during times of change, opportunities like this expand access, deepen our impact, and help build a stronger, more inclusive pipeline of talent for the future.”
About Association Latinos
Association Latinos is a nonprofit organization committed to increasing and advancing Latino leadership, opportunities, and inclusion in the association and nonprofit profession. Through various initiatives and programs, the organization works to create meaningful change and foster a more diverse and inclusive professional environment.About HACE
HACE is a national non‐profit organization dedicated to the advancement of Latino professionals. Since 1982, HACE has served as a resource for Latinos in the workplace and a source of expertise and insight for employers in attracting, retaining, and developing Latino talent. HACE champions Latino professionals and their advancement in the workplace in partnership with employers and educational institutions. We serve Latino professionals and students throughout the U.S. Learn more at HACEonline.org.Website: www.associationlatinos.org LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/association-latinos
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Association Latinos opens call for 2026 Honores nominations to celebrate Latino leadership and impact in the association profession.
Chicago, IL. — March 30, 2026 — Association Latinos is pleased to announce that nominations are now open for the 2026 Awards Program, and you are invited to submit a self-nomination. These awards recognize Latino professionals and organizations that are advancing leadership, strengthening representation, and making a meaningful impact within the association community. This is an opportunity to showcase your work, highlight your accomplishments, and receive recognition for your contributions to the association profession. The 2026 Honores include:
• Inspira Award – Celebrates an early-career association professional (with 3-5 years of experience) who demonstrates great promise and has shown exceptional leadership, innovation, and dedication to the profession.
• Estrella Award – Honors a mid- or senior-level Latino association executive who has made a significant impact on their organization and on the advancement of Latino professionals in the field.
• Impacto Award – Recognizes an individual who has made significant contributions to advancing Latino leadership, representation, and cultural visibility within their workplace, community, or professional organization.
• Alianza Award – Recognizes an organization that has demonstrated a strong commitment to Latino inclusion and leadership, and has partnered meaningfully with the Latino association community.
We encourage you to take this opportunity to reflect on your achievements and consider submitting an application. Applications must be submitted through the online form, with supporting materials, by June 1, 2026. Late submissions will not be considered.
For questions about the nomination process, please contact awards@associationlatinos.org
About Association Latinos:
Association Latinos is a nonprofit network dedicated to empowering Latino professionals in the association sector through community, advocacy, and recognition. Through its annual awards, professional development initiatives, and leadership programs, Association Latinos works to elevate Latino voices and foster more inclusive associations.
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February 17, 2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Association Latinos Partners with Sidecar to Become First AAiP-Powered Board and Organization in the Association Industry
Partnership provides AI learning and certification pathways to board, volunteers, and community
CHICAGO, IL – Association Latinos has partnered with Sidecar to become the first AAiP-powered board and organization in the association industry.
Through the partnership, Association Latinos board members, volunteers, and community will gain access to Sidecar's AI Learning Hub and a pathway to earn the AAiP (Association AI Professional) credential. The partnership reflects Association Latinos' commitment to professional development that positions Latino association professionals at the forefront of technology adoption.
"Association Latinos will be at the forefront of AI learning, certification, and leadership development. This partnership aligns with our mission and vision, and further establishes Association Latinos as a place to learn, grow, and lead. As an all-volunteer organization, becoming an AAiP-powered board and organization means we will maximize our impact and model what it looks like to lead with this technology," said Carlos Cardenas, CAE, AAiP, Board President, Association Latinos.
"Association Latinos sees this partnership with Sidecar as a positive step toward expanding opportunity and innovation for our comunidad. By becoming an AI-powered board and offering this pathway to our volunteers, we strengthen our ability to advance Latino leadership, representation, and inclusion in associations. It also ensures our community can lead with confidence as technology continues to shape the profession," said Norma Castrejon, MA, CAE, Vice President of IT, American Osteopathic Association and Chair, Association Latinos Technology Taskforce.
About Association Latinos
Association Latinos is a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to advancing Latino leadership, representation, and inclusion in the association industry. Founded in 2020, Association Latinos supports Latino association professionals through professional development, networking, and community building. For more information, visit associationlatinos.org.
About Sidecar
Sidecar is the learning and innovation hub for association professionals. Through the AI Learning Hub and the AAiP (Association AI Professional) certification program, Sidecar helps associations and their teams build AI competency and lead with confidence. For more information, visitSidecar.ai
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Website: www.associationlatinos.org
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/association-latinos
Questions? Email contact@associationlations.org
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January 28, 2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Association Latinos Launches the CAE Se Puede Program
Chicago, Illinois – Association Latinos is proud to announce the launch of CAE Se Puede, a new program designed to support Latino association professionals in achieving the Certified Association Executive (CAE) credential. As part of this initiative, we are also introducing the CAE Se Puede Exam Fund, made possible through a founding partnership with Dr. Michael Tatonetti and Pricing for Associations. The fund will provide financial assistance to help offset exam costs for eligible candidates. This program reflects our commitment to advancing Latino leadership in the association industry and removing barriers to professional credentialing.
Carlos Cardenas, CAE, AAiP, Board President, Association Latinos states "The CAE credential opens doors to leadership opportunities in our industry, and CAE Se Puede ensures that Latino professionals have the support they need to walk through them. This program is about more than a credential. It's about investing in future Latino association leaders."
Dr. Michael Tatonetti, CPP, CAE, Founding Partner of the CAE Se Puede Exam Fund, Founder and CEO, Pricing for Associations says "When more professionals have access to high-quality education and credentials, the entire community becomes stronger. At Pricing for Associations, we're honored to partner with Association Latinos to launch the CAE Se Puede Exam Fund and help establish the CAE Se Puede program as a lasting source of opportunity. We're excited to invest in this work and support association professionals for many years to come."
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About Association Latinos:
Association Latinos is a nonprofit organization committed to increasing and advancing Latino leadership, opportunities, and inclusion in the association and nonprofit profession. Through various initiatives and programs, the organization works to create meaningful change and foster a more diverse and inclusive professional environment.
Website: www.associationlatinos.org
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/association-latinos
Questions? Email contact@associationlations.org
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October 6, 2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Association Latinos Announces 2026 Board of Directors and Officers
Chicago, Illinois – Association Latinos is pleased to announce the results of its 2026 Board of Directors election. Carlos E. Cardenas, CAE, AAiP, Senior Strategic Consultant at Delcor Technology Solutions, has been elected as Association Latinos President.
A distinguished leader with extensive experience in technology and association management, Carlos brings vision and energy to this important role and will lead efforts to elevate Latino representation and influence across the association profession.
Joining Carlos on the 2026 Board of Directors are:
Diana Dabdub, CAE - Secretary
Jay Cariño, MBA, CAE - Board Member at Large
Norma G Castrejon, CAE - Board Member at Large
Josie Hernandez, IOM - Board Member at Large
Marissa Lopez, CAE - Board Member at Large
Ben Yzaguirre, M. Ed., CAE - Board Member at Large
The Association Latinos Treasurer position will be appointed by the President. The new board term begins January 1, 2026.
“As I conclude my time as President, I am deeply grateful for the three years I had the privilege to lead our organization,” said Josie Hernandez, IOM, outgoing Association Latinos Board President. “With much optimism, hope, and excitement, I welcome Carlos E. Cardenas as our next President. I am confident he will guide Association Latinos to the next level of growth and empowerment for our community. Felicidades to Carlos and the entire Association Latinos Board of Directors! Together we are entering an exciting new era!”
Association Latinos extends its gratitude to all Board members and volunteers for their dedication, leadership, and service to the association profession.
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About Association Latinos:
Association Latinos is a nonprofit organization committed to increasing and advancing Latino leadership, opportunities, and inclusion in the association and nonprofit profession. Through various initiatives and programs, the organization works to create meaningful change and foster a more diverse and inclusive professional environment.
Website: www.associationlatinos.org
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/association-latinos
Questions? Email contact@associationlations.org
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