ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Eneida Roman CEO Amplify Latinx
Eneida Roman is the President & CEO of Amplify LatinX, driving Latino prosperity through leadership, economic mobility, and policy solutions. As an acclaimed business leader and innovator, she champions the U.S. economy by enhancing the potential of women and communities of color. Eneida’s efforts in economic development and equity have earned her national recognition and numerous accolades.

Andrew Melendez Founder/Director, Latino Economic Development Corporation
Andrew Melendez, as the Founder/Director of the Latino Economic Development Corporation (LEDC), has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to supporting and uplifting businesses within the Western MA community. Andrew also served as the Western MA Director for the Associated Industries of Massachusetts, the largest business association in the state with over 700 members securing $4.3 million in dues.

 

WORKFORCE

Rosalin Acosta Former Secretary of Labor and Workforce Development, Unidos in Power Vice Chair
Rosalin Acosta is a seasoned leader in workforce development, with extensive experience in financial services and government. As a former Secretary of Labor and Workforce Development for Massachusetts, she championed workforce initiatives and policies. Rosalin is dedicated to building equitable and robust workforce systems.

Xiomara DeLobato Vice President and Chief of Staff Western Mass Economic Development Council
As Vice President and Chief of Staff for the Western Massachusetts Economic Development Council (EDC), she is instrumental in facilitating the growth and development of the region’s economy. In her role, Xiomara has focused on industry sector and workforce development, recognizing the full activation and support of community, entrepreneurship, and tourism as integral ingredients to the success and prosperity of an economy.

 

HOUSING

Vanessa Calderón-Rosado Ph.D., CEO, IBA – Chief Executive Officer, Inquilinos Boricuas en Acción (IBA)
Vanessa Calderón-Rosado has led IBA since 2003, significantly expanding its affordable housing portfolio and enhancing community programs. She holds a Ph.D. in Public Policy from the University of Massachusetts Boston and has been recognized as one of Massachusetts’ most influential people. Her leadership continues to drive IBA’s mission to empower individuals and strengthen communities.

Joesiah Gonzalez Chief Philanthropy & Communications Officer, Home City Development
Joesiah joined Home City Development in 2023, leading fundraising and marketing. With experience in social impact and public administration, he previously enhanced youth and workforce programs at New North Citizens’ Council. He holds an MBA from Fitchburg State University and is pursuing a Doctorate in Educational Leadership.

 

EDUCATION

Amanda Fernandez Founder & CEO, Latinos for Education
Amanda Fernandez founded Latinos for Education in 2016 to develop and connect Latino leaders in education. With a strong background in nonprofit leadership, she previously worked at Teach For America and NewSchools Venture Fund, focusing on diversity initiatives. She holds a Bachelor’s degree from Northeastern University and a Master’s in Urban Policy and Management from The New School.

Jose Escribano Chief of Family and Community Engagement for the Springfield Public Schools
José has served as a principal prior to his current position. Jose holds a Masters in Mental Health Counseling and School Adjustment Counseling along with his Administrators license.

 

IMMIGRATION

Iván Espinoza-Madrigal Executive Director of Lawyers for Civil Rights (LCR)
Iván Espinoza-Madrigal is the Executive Director of Lawyers for Civil Rights (LCR), New England’s leading organization on racial justice and immigration. Under his leadership, LCR tackles key legal and policy issues affecting immigrants. Iván has won numerous landmark cases and is recognized for his impactful advocacy in immigration reform.

Claudia Quintero Staff Attorney, Central West Justice Center & Assistant Professor of Law, Western New England University School of Law
Claudia Quintero is a staff attorney at Central West Justice Center and an Assistant Professor at Western New England University School of Law. She leads the Migrant and Seasonal Farmworker Project and the Fairness for Farmworkers Coalition. Her research focuses on social justice, immigration, and workers’ rights.

 

HEALTH

Joseph R. Betancourt M.D., President, The Commonwealth Fund, Unidos in Power Chair
Dr. Joseph Betancourt is a leading authority in addressing health disparities, serving as Senior Vice President of Equity and Community Health at Mass General Brigham. He has dedicated his career to improving healthcare access and quality for underserved communities, earning national recognition for his impactful work in health equity.