Larissa Romero Valenzuela
International Services Specialist, Rice University
Larissa Romero Valenzuela is a seasoned leader in international relations and economic development, with nearly three decades of experience fostering U.S.-Mexico collaboration. A native of Mexico, she moved to the U.S. in 2001 to work at the Mexican Consulate, where she led programs in business, education, and cultural empowerment for Hispanic communities.
She later served as Political Analyst and Media Liaison at the Mexican Consulate in Phoenix, managing high-level relationships with elected officials, business leaders, faith organizations, and advocacy groups.
Returning to Tucson, Larissa became Director of International Relations at the Tucson Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, where she launched a cross-border business program that helped earn the Chamber national recognition as Hispanic Chamber of the Year.
She holds a degree in International Relations and began her career at Bancomext, Mexico’s federal export agency. Her early leadership included serving as CEO of her family’s business and being elected President of her hometown Chamber of Commerce, where she launched binational initiatives like cross-border baseball games and business expos.
Her work spans public and private sectors, including roles with the Sonora Secretary of Economy, the City of Tucson, the Sonora-Mexico Commission, Native American tribes, and regional municipalities.
Larissa has received multiple awards, including two Community Service Awards from LULAC and a joint LULAC–FBI Leadership Award. She is a graduate of the Hispanic Leadership Institute and the University of Arizona’s Entrepreneur Academy, and has served on various boards, including the Instituto Cultural Mexicano de Tucson and the YMCA.
She currently works at Rice University in Houston, Texas, as an International Services Specialist. Throughout her career, Larissa has been recognized for her leadership, cultural fluency, and unwavering commitment to regional progress.
Panel Information
WOMEN’S CONFERENCE - Fueling the Next Wave of Latina Entrepreneurs
9:30 AM
The LULAC Academy Opening Session Ceremony launches the educational track for emerging Latino leaders with inspiring remarks from distinguished speakers to celebrate Latino excellence and potential. The ceremony underscores LULAC's commitment to developing talent through education, mentorship, and professional development, setting the foundation for the Academy experience that follows.