{Covina, CA November 3, 2023} - Latinos In Transit (LIT), a national nonprofit organization committed to advancing the representation of Latinos and other minorities in the transit industry, proudly announces the appointment of Christina Villarreal as its first Executive Director. Hailing from Laredo, Texas, Villarreal has played a pivotal role in the organization and is now ready to lead it to new heights.

Villarreal embarked on her journey with LIT in a contract-based capacity, where she quickly demonstrated her unwavering dedication and passion for the organization's mission. Her exceptional contributions have earned her the role of Executive Director.

"Christina has taken LIT to a whole other level. In a short period of time she streamlined LIT's membership process, launched a new website and successfully took over planning and implementation of LIT's major activities and events." said Alva Carrasco, President of the Board of Directors. "Christina has become an integral member of our team and I am delighted that with her leadership, LIT will continue to shine." 

Villarreal brings an impressive track record of more than 25 years in the nonprofit sector, underpinned by a solid educational foundation. She holds a bachelor's degree in nonprofit management, a master's degree in public administration, and a master's degree in human services. As an active member of the Association of Consultants to Nonprofits, Villarreal has worked in supporting and advocating for immigrant educational programs, providing valuable resources and assistance to immigrant communities. She has contributed to city planning commissions and committees, where she played a crucial role in urban development, community revitalization, and ensuring equitable and sustainable city planning. 

Villarreal also played a pivotal role in safeguarding her Latino community's rich cultural and historical legacy by dedicating herself to historic preservation. Through her efforts, she brought to light the often-overlooked historical narrative of her community, making it accessible to a wider audience. Her work provided her the opportunity to be a Diversity Scholar for the National Trust of Historic Preservation.

These qualifications equip her to steer LIT toward greater success. Since her involvement, the organization has achieved remarkable milestones, including a 300 percent increase in its membership base.

"I am humbled to be given the opportunity to help push the mission of LIT forward,” Villarreal said. “I am extremely grateful for the board of directors for having the confidence in me to implement the organization's strategic plan, and I look forward to working with our organizational members. I am most excited about expanding the programs and services of LIT."

Under her administrative direction, LIT successfully organized the organization's 2023 Leadership Summit in Washington, D.C. This summit provided a platform for industry professionals to collaborate, share ideas, and inspire positive change within the transit sector.

Furthermore, Villarreal played a key role in facilitating the 2023 Leadership Academy program, a significant milestone for LIT. Thirty transit industry professionals from across the country participated in the program, and under her guidance, they successfully completed the academy, enhancing their skills and knowledge within the industry.

Villarreal's dedication, extensive experience, and visionary leadership make her the ideal candidate to lead LIT and champion the organization's mission of promoting diversity and excellence within the transit industry.