LULAC National Women's Conference

The League of United Latin American Citizens and the LULAC Women’s Commission invite you to participate in the 2025 LULAC National Women’s Conference. The conference will take place at the Long Beach Convention Center in Long Beach, CA on August 7th, 2025.

The mission of the LULAC National Commission for Women is to empower Latinas throughout the country to be exemplary leaders in their families, communities, and workplaces. The commission understands that through education, economic and leadership development and political empowerment women can positively impact change in their community.

The Women's Conference at the LULAC National Convention celebrates the remarkable achievements of Latinas, showcasing inspiring stories of resilience, perseverance, and success. This dynamic event aligns with the mission of the LULAC National Commission for Women, empowering Latinas to excel as leaders in their families, communities, and workplaces.


Links:


Agenda -
Thursday, August 7, 2025


9:00 - 9:20 am

WOMEN’S CONFERENCE - Opening Remarks

From LULAC’s founding days, it’s been women—often behind the scenes, always at the frontlines—who’ve built the backbone of this movement. They organized when it wasn’t popular, stood firm when others stayed silent, and pushed forward when the road got rough. This opening session is more than a ceremony—it’s a recognition of that legacy and a charge to those carrying it forward. These remarks will kick off a series of sessions grounded in leadership, mentorship, and the practical tools women need to lead at every level—from the local community to the halls of power.

Speakers:

Lupe Torres

National Vice President for Women, League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC)

Dr. Nina Richardson

Interim Dean of Enrollment Services, Long Beach Community College

Sen. Lena Gonzalez

California State Senate, District 33

Lu Johns-De La Garza

LULAC Research and Policy Fellow, Vanderbilt University

Room: 103 A


9:30 - 10:45 am

WOMEN’S CONFERENCE - Fueling the Next Wave of Latina Entrepreneurs

This session tackles the economic roadblocks Latinas face—barriers to capital, exclusion from key networks, and a persistent underestimation of their potential. Yet from leading breakthroughs in tech and AI to organizing hospitality workers across Southern California and Arizona, Latinas are turning struggle into strength. This is economic empowerment in action—rooted in labor, innovation, and a deep commitment to community. They're not just participating in the economy—they're redefining it on their terms.

Introduction:

LULAC Research and Policy Fellow, Brigham Young University

LULAC Research and Policy Fellow, Virginia Tech (Master’s)

Speakers:

Caroline Sanchez Crozier

Digital Leaders Now and Chair, LULAC Committee on Technology and AI

Larissa Romero Valenzuela

International Services Specialist, Rice University

Laura Linda

Award-winning Tejano and Country Music Artist

Ana Valenzuela (Moderator)

National Vice President for the Elderly, League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC)

Room: 103 A


11:00 - 11:50 am

WOMEN’S CONFERENCE - La Lucha Continua: Navigating Aging with Mental Strength

This session takes a clear-eyed look at the mental health challenges Latinas face when aging—and the impact those struggles have on entire families. It explores what it means for loved ones to step up as caregivers, often without a roadmap or support. By focusing on this too-often overlooked reality, the session calls for real solutions that honor the strength of Latinas and the families who stand beside them.

Introduction:

LULAC Research and Policy Fellow, Boston College

LULAC Research and Policy Fellow, University of Portland

Speakers:

Dr. María P. Aranda

Professor, USC Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work

Pastor Asia Clermont

Mental Health Advocate and State Director, LULAC-Florida

Dr. Charito Cisneros

President, Hispanic Cosmetology and Beauty Chamber of Commerce of New York

Lydia Guzman (Moderator)

Director of Advocacy and Civic Engagement, Chicanos Por La Causa

Room: 103 A


2:00 - 2:50 pm

WOMEN’S CONFERENCE - Democracy Looks Like This

This session brings together a powerhouse panel to tackle the real and often overlooked challenges Latinas face in civic life—from navigating voter suppression and language barriers to the uphill battles of fundraising, campaigning, and being heard in rooms where decisions are made. The 2024 raids on LULAC abuelitas in Texas exposed just how threatened the system feels by Latina political power. These panelists don’t just understand the struggle—they’re leading through it. When Latinas vote, run, and lead, they turn lived experience into political force—ensuring our democracy doesn’t just include them, but is shaped by them.

Introduction:

LULAC Research and Policy Fellow, Wellesley College

Speakers:

Ada Briceño

Co-President, UNITE HERE Local 11

Dr. Elba Garcia

Dallas County Commissioner, District 4

Sen. Lena Gonzalez

California State Senate, District 33

Lourdes Galvan (Moderator)

Past National Vice President for Women, League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC)

Room: 103 A


Friday, August 8, 2025


7:30 - 9:00 am

Latina Welcome Breakfast

Join us for a special Fireside Chat hosted by Airbnb during Friday’s breakfast session at the LULAC Women’s Conference. This engaging conversation will feature Melissa Sandgren (Director, External Community Engagement) from Airbnb and Latina Superhost Ambassadors, Ceci Jayo and Marija Chandler, who will share their personal journey as hosts and how hosting on Airbnb has created new opportunities in their life. Whether you're curious about becoming a host, looking for flexible ways to earn income, or simply want to explore new paths of entrepreneurship, this session will offer real-world insights and practical advice. Learn how Airbnb can help you take the first step in your own entrepreneurial journey. [Ticket Required]

Lupe Torres

National Vice President for Women, League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC)

Mary Palomares

First Lady of LULAC and Education Advocate

Melissa Sandgren

Director of External Community Engagement, Airbnb

Ceci Jayo

Airbnb Superhost Ambassador

Marija Chandler

Airbnb Superhost Ambassador

Room: 101 A&B


12:00 - 1:45 pm

Women’s Hall of Fame Luncheon

The Women’s Hall of Fame Luncheon, an annual celebration hosted by the LULAC Women’s Commission, shines a spotlight on the remarkable contributions of women within the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC). [ticket required]

Speakers:

Dolores Huerta

Civil Rights Trailblazer & Co-Founder, United Farm Workers

Supervisor Hilda Solis

Member of the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors and Former Secretary of Labor

Lupe Torres

National Vice President for Women, League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC)

Ballroom


2025 Hall Of Fame Awardees

Josie Ramona Marrujo

Labor Leader & President, LULAC Council 8057 (New Mexico)

Virginia Mitzelman

Community Advocate; LULAC Leader (San Antonio)

Diana Castillo Perez

Housing Justice & Disability Rights Advocate (Bexar County, TX)

Elizabeth Moran-Degen

Production and Traffic Manager, The Atkins Group

Yvette Moran

Vice President of Quality Assurance and Contracts, SJRC Texas

Rickyana Estrada

Educator and Education Chair, LULAC Arizona

Plenary Sessions [August 8, 9AM to 5PM]