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Breaking Barriers: Latina Leadership in Higher Education
Thursday June 18, 2026 4:00pm - 4:55pm CDT
Room: 203 A
This panel will be an inspiring conversation with Latina leaders in higher education and public service as they share their journeys navigating systemic barriers, advocating for educational access, and creating pathways for future generations. Panelists will discuss the challenges and opportunities facing Latinas in higher education, the importance of mentorship and community leadership, and the impact of policy and advocacy in expanding access and representation. Through personal experiences and professional insights, this session will empower attendees to pursue leadership, service, and educational advancement within their own communities.
Moderator
avatar for Ginny Mendez

Ginny Mendez

National Women’s Commissioner, LULAC
Ginny Mendez is a bilingual public policy professional, program manager, and longtime leader within the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC), the nation's oldest and largest Latino civil rights organization. Born and raised in Oak Cliff, Texas, and a first-generation college... Read More →
Speakers
avatar for Rep. Cassandra Garcia Hernandez

Rep. Cassandra Garcia Hernandez

Texas House of Representatives for the 115th District
Representative Cassandra Garcia Hernandez represents Texas House District 115, serving communities across northwest Dallas County, including Addison, Carrollton, Coppell, Dallas, Farmers Branch, Irving, and Lewisville. An attorney and public servant, she recently completed her first... Read More →
avatar for Diana Flores

Diana Flores

Dallas College Trustee, District 6
Diana Flores serves as Trustee for District 6 on the Dallas College Board of Trustees, where she has helped guide one of the nation's largest community college systems since her election in 1996. A longtime advocate for higher education and workforce development, she currently serves... Read More →
avatar for Elida J. Martinez

Elida J. Martinez

Assistant Director of Student Engagement, University of North Texas at Dallas
Elida J. Martinez hails from the vibrant cultural landscape of Nuevo Leon, Mexico, yet her heart finds its home in Oak Cliff, a mighty neighborhood in the center of Dallas, Texas, where she spent her formative years. A proud first-generation Latina, Elida’s work centers on creating... Read More →
avatar for Dr. Catherine Olivarez

Dr. Catherine Olivarez

Associate Vice Provost for Articulation, Transfer, and Educational Policy, Dallas College
Dr. Catherine Prieto Olivarez is Associate Vice Provost for Articulation, Transfer, and Educational Policy at Dallas College, one of the nation's largest community college systems. A nationally recognized leader in higher education, she has dedicated her career to expanding opportunity... Read More →
Thursday June 18, 2026 4:00pm - 4:55pm CDT
Room: 203 A
  Women's Conference Event

Attendees (11)


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