Latinos In Transit Closes out Landmark Year in 2024: Leadership Transitions, Strategic Initiatives, and Membership Growth

Latinos In Transit (LIT) started 2024 with significant leadership changes and strategic initiatives aimed at advancing diversity, equity, and professional growth within the transit industry. The organization, dedicated to elevating Latinos and minorities in public transportation, welcomed Herold Humphrey as the new President, with Elizabeth Carter stepping in as Vice President. Eugenio Bonet will continue his work as Treasurer, while Megan Perrero takes on the role of Board Secretary. Additionally, the Board of Directors was expanded with the election of Dietter Aragon and Lina Aragon, whose expertise and insights bring fresh perspectives to LIT’s vision for the future.

In February 2024, under Humphrey's leadership, LIT established the Avanzando Workforce Task Force to tackle workforce challenges facing the transit sector. The task force is responsible for launching a series of in-person and virtual training sessions aimed at equipping LIT members with the skills and knowledge needed to navigate a rapidly evolving transit landscape. This initiative underscores LIT’s commitment to preparing Latino transit professionals for executive roles and impactful careers within the industry.

By March 2024, LIT’s Leadership Academy, now in its third year, launched with an innovative addition: a Board Transit Leader track, specifically designed to develop participants’ skills in board governance and strategic oversight. LITLA was facilitated by LIT Executive Director, Christina Villarreal. The program welcomed 36 participants during its orientation.

May 2024 saw LIT’s Board of Directors launching a comprehensive policy review and amendment process, enhancing organizational bylaws to better support LIT’s continued growth and the evolving needs of its members. This policy refinement aims to ensure that LIT remains a resilient, forward-thinking organization equipped to advocate for equity and inclusion in public transportation.

As the summer progressed, LIT’s active committees ramped up their efforts in July 2024 to implement the organization’s strategic plan, with a concentrated focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), led by Lina Aragon. This period also marked the beginning of planning for a new Employee Resource Group (ERG) committee, led Jose Felciano by to provide additional support and resources for minority professionals within the industry.

LIT’s hallmark Leadership Summit in September 2024 brought together over 271 attendees in Portland, Oregon. Hosted by TriMet, the sold-out event featured an impressive lineup, including the first-ever “Contigo” mentor pair-up program designed to introduce the upcoming 2025 mentorship initiative. The Summit was also the stage for the first live-streamed Café Con LIT, an interactive discussion on diversity in transit that was broadcasted to a national audience. Attendees participated in industry tours, intensive training sessions, and engaging discussions on workforce development and policy-making, while LIT also announced that Rio Metro Regional Transit District in Albuquerque, New Mexico, will host the 2025 Summit.

At the Leadership Summit, the Leadership Academy’s third cohort celebrated the graduation of 29 participants, marking a pivotal moment in LIT’s mission to provide professional development opportunities for Latino and minority transit professionals. Additionally, LIT awarded $40,000 in scholarships to members advancing their careers in the transportation sector, demonstrating its ongoing investment in the education and advancement of its community.

In October, Latinos In Transit proudly got its official trademark status, marking a milestone in the organization’s growth. This achievement has prompted a restructuring of affiliate events and communications policies, a strategic initiative led by Board Secretary Megan Perrero. These updates aim to standardize LIT’s branding and enhance its outreach, ensuring a consistent and impactful presence across all platforms and events.

Throughout 2024, LIT continued to see remarkable growth in its membership, prompting virtual and in person meetings with LIT Executive Director, Christina Villarreal and various organizational members across the country. Other efforts led by the organization's staff include the implementation of a new job board and a small business committee landing page to help support our small business members.

Ongoing programs such as Café Con LIT continued to thrive, with the monthly sessions doubling in registrant numbers by the year’s end. This growth signals LIT’s role as a vital platform for discussion, networking, and professional enrichment for Latino professionals and allies in public transportation.

As the organization closes out 2024, Latinos In Transit has laid the groundwork for another year of impactful work in 2025, furthering its mission of advancing Latino and minority professionals within the transit industry and beyond.

     The summit welcomed more than 271 attendees that developed their leadership skills through special sessions, interactive workshops and programmed networking events. 

October 14, 2024 | Portland, Oregon – Latinos In Transit (LIT) proudly welcomed over 271 attendees to its sold-out 2024 Leadership Summit, hosted by TriMet in Portland, Oregon, from September 12 to 14. The Summit, held as part of LIT’s Hispanic Heritage Month activities, featured an expanded two and a half days of programming, marking a reimagined experience for its members and supporters. This year’s Summit showcased LIT’s commitment to advancing Latinos and other minorities into executive roles by providing mentorship, leadership training, workforce development programming, and by highlighting Latino industry leaders.

Mentor Pair-Up: "Contigo" Program

The Summit commenced with LIT’s first-ever “Contigo” mentor pair-up program, designed to foster relationships between first-time attendees, new LIT members, and individuals new to the transit industry with experienced professionals. Mentees were matched with mentors based on their field of interest, creating valuable networking opportunities. The program, which served as a preview for LIT’s forthcoming 2025 Mentorship Program, was aimed at ensuring attendees gained the most from their Summit experience.

Opening Reception at The Melody

Attendees were welcomed to an opening reception at The Melody, featuring DJ OG ONE, the official DJ of the Portland Trail Blazers. The event offered an evening of lively conversation, networking, and local cuisine, organized by TriMet staff. Sam Desue Jr., TriMet General Manager, addressed the attendees with welcome remarks, followed by a video presentation on the history of TriMet. A photo booth at the event captured memorable moments, which were later compiled into a Summit yearbook, distributed to all attendees.

Café Con LIT Livestream – A Historic First

For the first time, Café Con LIT, LIT’s monthly virtual program, was hosted in front of a live audience and streamed to viewers across the country. Access to the live stream was offered free of charge, making part of the Summit economically accessible to all. The session, hosted by LIT Board Secretary Megan Perrero, centered on equity and diversity in the public transportation industry and featured Ozzie Gonzalez, former TriMet Board President; Karol Orozco, Senior Project Manager, IDEA, TriMet; and Moises Gutierrez, Deputy CEO, Sound Transit. Sponsored by Sound Transit, this engaging conversation highlighted the challenges and opportunities in creating more inclusive work environments.

Technical Tours

As part of Friday’s programming, attendees participated in two exclusive tours:

• 4T Tour: Participants experienced how Portland’s unique transportation modes—train, trolley, tram, and Tilikum Crossing, Bridge of the People—have shaped the city’s mobility culture.

• Powell Garage Tour: This tour showcased TriMet’s newly modernized Powell Garage, featuring a cutting-edge bus wash system capable of reclaiming 300 gallons of water per minute and a 400,000-square-foot bus yard housing over 300 buses. The tour, organized by TriMet, demonstrated the agency’s commitment to safety, capacity expansion, and employee well-being.

Training Sessions

For the first time, attendees had the opportunity to participate in intensive training sessions led by Latino industry leaders.

• DEI and Non-discrimination, Addressing the Shift: Presented by Aida Berduo Berry, VP of Advisory Services/Civil Rights Practice Lead at WSP USA, this session focused on ensuring public transportation programs remain inclusive amid challenges to DEI programs across the country. Topics covered included Title VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Americans with Disabilities Act, and the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Program.

• Developing Employees: Led by Rosa Medina-Cristobal, SVP & Chief HR Officer, Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART), and Salvador Llamas, COO, AC Transit, this training highlighted DART’s successful post-pandemic strategies for employee retention and development, emphasizing leadership training and workforce morale improvements.

Annual Membership Meeting

The Annual Membership Meeting, sponsored by HNTB, provided attendees with an overview of LIT’s achievements and plans for the future. LIT Board President Herold Humphrey opened the meeting, discussing the organization’s strategic growth.

• Elizabeth Carter, LIT Vice President, gave a year-in-review report, noting the success of the Leadership Academy, which celebrated its third year with 29 graduates.

• Eugenio Bonet, LIT Treasurer, presented a financial report highlighting LIT’s financial milestone, with the organization generating over $275,940 in membership fees, donations, and special events, contributing to a half a million dollars in total revenues for LIT in the past eight months, reflecting a 24.86 percent increase in membership revenue.

• Christina Villarreal, LIT Executive Director, reported a 580 percent increase in program activity and a 420 percent growth in membership, noting that LIT had seen a 1,100 percent increase in public transit agency members.

Member and Small Business Awards

LIT honored outstanding members and small businesses for their contributions:

• Member of the Year Award: Presented to Sal Llamas, COO of AC Transit, for his dedication to LIT programs, including co-chairing the Workforce Development Task Force and mentoring emerging leaders.

“To say I'm surprised, humbled and shocked is an understatement. I’m rarely ever speechless and I’m very touched. Thank you very much for the honor,” Llamas said while accepting the award. 

• Small Business Member of the Year Award: Awarded to VTS Engineering, recognized for its commitment to diversity and inclusion and its active collaboration with LIT.

“What an honor, thank you to the LIT board. When I stumbled upon LIT a couple of years ago, I could not begin to describe how impactful this organization has been to my company. Thank you for the award,” said Anthony Valdiosera, CEO and co-founder, VST Engineering, during his acceptance speech. 

Leadership Academy Capstone Presentations

The Leadership Academy capstone presentations were  a key highlight, with participants showcasing projects they had worked on for five months. Notable presentations included one by Ramiro Navarro Jr. of Cherriots and Michael Guzman of Denver Regional Transportation District, who presented on the topic of onboarding transit board members. Their research will be published as a white paper by LIT.

Employee Resource Group (ERG) Meeting

LIT hosted its first-ever ERG meeting, which brought together cohorts from WeDriveU, TriMet, and Sound Transit for an in-depth discussion on creating support structures for ERGs. This meeting laid the groundwork for future LIT programming to help organizations establish and manage ERGs effectively.

Scholarship Awards and Graduation Celebration

Sponsored by WeDriveU, the Summit’s celebratory evening recognized Leadership Academy graduates and scholarship recipients, emphasizing the importance of mentorship and professional development in the transit industry. A total of $40,000 was awarded in scholarships this year. 

Saturday Breakout Sessions

Saturday’s programming brought high-energy leadership development sessions, spearheaded by LIT founding board members Alva Carrasco, David Mugica, and Aurora “AJ” Jackson. The sessions provided attendees with actionable insights into navigating career challenges, building strong professional networks, and fostering collaboration across generations in the workplace.

One of the highlights was Alva Carrasco’s session, creatively moderated in a Late Night Show-inspired format. Carrasco invited panelists to the stage with their favorite music, infusing the room with excitement and encouraging active audience participation, including some dancing. Attendees shared experiences and strategies for success, creating an atmosphere that blended education with engagement.

The breakout sessions also included a significant discussion on equity in active transportation, hosted by the Transportation Research Board and moderated by LIT Board Director Mariela Garcia-Colberg. This session explored how cities can design transportation systems that are accessible and inclusive, with a focus on ensuring that underrepresented communities, particularly Latinos, benefit from active transportation programs like biking and walking.

Plenary Sessions

The plenary sessions featured powerful discussions led by several dignitaries and regional officials, offering attendees insights into the broader impact of public transportation on diverse communities.

• Portland City Commissioner Carmen Rubio and Oregon State Representative Ricki Ruiz (D-40-OR) opened the plenaries by discussing the critical importance of public transportation in serving diverse populations. Both highlighted how transit can be a tool for social equity, providing access to jobs, education, and essential services for underrepresented communities.

• The Leadership Luncheon featured remarks from Coral Torres-Cruz, U.S. Department of Transportation Chief of Staff and Senior Advisor to the Under Secretary of Transportation, who shared her personal journey as a Latina leader in the federal government. She spoke passionately about her connection to her heritage and how it has shaped her approach to leadership in public service, particularly in transportation.

• Metro Councilor Juan Carlos González delivered the keynote address at the luncheon, focusing on the role of regional transit systems in driving sustainable and inclusive growth. He emphasized the importance of local governments and transit agencies working together to ensure that all communities benefit from transportation investments.

• Milo Victoria was presented with the 2024 Founders’ Award for his unwavering service to Latinos In Transit and for serving as the organization’s first board president.

Closing Plenary: Authentic Leadership

The closing plenary was led by Billy Terry, executive director of the National Transit Institute (NTI). In a heartfelt discussion on authenticity in leadership, Terry guided attendees through an exploration of what it means to be an authentic leader. He encouraged participants to explore and dissect the elements of authenticity, identify the barriers and catalysts that influence authenticity in the workplace, and reflect on the decision to embrace or avoid being authentic in professional settings. Terry’s insights left the audience inspired to lead with greater self-awareness and confidence.

2024 Transit Agency of the Year

The Summit also celebrated the accomplishments of Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART), which was awarded the prestigious 2024 Transit Agency of the Year award. DART was recognized for its innovative workforce development programs and commitment to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion within the agency.

2025 Leadership Summit Announcement

LIT also announced the host agency for the 2025 Leadership Summit, Rio Metro Regional Transit District. Next year’s Summit will take place in Albuquerque, New Mexico. In a symbolic ceremony, representatives from TriMet passed a gold-plated baton to Rio Metro, representing the transfer of Summit responsibilities to the new host agency.

Planning for the 2025 Leadership Summit is already underway, building on this year’s success and feedback. LIT continues to foster a sense of belonging and connection for all its members, with anticipation growing for next year’s event in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Milo Victoria Founders Award_Press Release.docx.pdf

LITLA Graduation and Scholarship Awards 2024_Press Release.docx.pdf

 
Juan Antonio Lopez Statement.pdf

February 23, 2024 [Covia, CA] - Latinos In Transit (LIT) has selected the participants for the 2024 Leadership Academy, a program that allows transit professionals to learn about management practices, finance, procurement, labor relations and regulatory compliance. 

This year, LIT’s Leadership Academy (LITLA) is divided into four different development tracks: Making of An Executive, Leading in Middle Management, Transit Board Leadership, and New Careers in Transit. The 35 participants selected represent the public and private sector from across the country. 

"We eagerly extend our warmest welcome to the 35 LITLA participants embarking on their journey through the 2024 academy,” said Christina Villarreal, executive director, LIT and LITLA program coordinator. “Embracing diversity in transportation, we anticipate their transformative growth during this immersive experience. With great anticipation, we await the unveiling of their impactful capstone projects at the 2024 Leadership Summit in Portland, Oregon.” 

Each track consists of five modules, with each module occurring once a month for five months starting in April 2024. Modules will be taught virtually by industry leaders. Participants must complete a team project and presentation to graduate from the academy. Presentations will be made at the 2024 Leadership Summit in Portland, Oregon, on Friday, September 13. LIT encourages anyone who is interested to attend the ceremony. Registration opens Monday, February 26.

The 2024 LITLA Class participants for each track are:

New Careers in Transit

Karla Martinez Gallardo, TriMet

Madeline Saldana, Lane Transit District

Meliton Chaidez, DILAX Systems US

Melissa Martinez, Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority 

Leading in Middle Management

Francis Rodriguez, Houston-Galveston Area Council

Marcela Moreno, Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority

Brian Ramirez, WeDriveU

Lourdes Melissa Gomez, Sound Transit

Dioselyn Ayala-Moreno, SunLine Transit Agency

Cristobal Villegas, Jr., Utah Transit Authority

Nelson Valle, Transdev

Gaston Eugenio Kelly, Uber Technologies

Yanior Concepcion, Transdev

Matthew Nakano, Foothill Transit

Elizabeth Zambrano, Access Services

Maria Cristina Hallner, National Express Transit Corporation

Rick Ramirez Diaz, Keolis

Ruben Ledesma, WeDriveU

Sanskrit Singh, WSP

Jocelin Padilla, Long Beach Transit

Edith Hernandez, SunLine Transit Agency

Eva Esquivel, HNTB Corporation

Lourdes L. Alvarez, Foothill Transit

Arantxa Contreras, Keolis

Jessica Leon, SunLine Transit Agency

Making of an Executive

Juan R Guillermo, MeVa Transit

Jonathan Javier, Keolis

Daniela Waltersdorfer, HNTB

Hector Vargas, MV Transportation

Jesse Soto, Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority

Juan A Lopez, MV Transportation

Ruben E Mendoza, MV Transportation

Luefras Robinson, WSP

Transit Board Leadership

Ramiro Navarro, Salem Area Mass Transit District d/ba Cherriots

Michael Guzman, Denver Regional Transit District 

Now in its third year, the LITLA Committee plans to implement new strategies to catapult the success of the program to expand its opportunities for Latinos and other minorities in the transit sector.

Covina, CA, February 2024 – Latinos In Transit (LIT), a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, and the New Mexico Transit Association (NMTA) are excited to announce a strategic partnership dedicated to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion within the public transit industry. The collaboration was formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed on January 29, 2024, outlining a framework for mutual cooperation between the two organizations.

"Our collective efforts in the advancement and development of Latinos and other minorities have the power to create positive change in the transportation industry,” said LIT President Herold Humphrey. “We are very excited for this MOU with the New Mexico Transit Association and look forward to working on collaborative changes together. This MOU signifies our commitment and shared accountability for diversity, equity, and inclusion.”

The MOU is set to remain in effect for five years, during which LIT and NMTA will collaborate closely to shape the public transit industry positively for Latinos and other minorities in the workforce. This includes activities such as developing programs, content and speakers for conferences, meetings and webinars; promote events and news to each membership base; participate in meetings and events; and cooperate on identifying and developing potential research problem statements related to diversity, equity, inclusion, and Latino/other minority transportation-related issues, among others.

“New Mexico Transit Association is excited to partner with Latinos In Transit to continue to develop and advance Latinos and other minorities into leadership roles to create a more inclusive and diverse workforce in the transportation industry.” said NMTA President Elizabeth Carter.

Both LIT and NMTA share common objectives, including supporting diversity and inclusion in the public transit industry, contributing to the future of transportation through professional development, providing leadership in the global transportation community, addressing issues concerning Latinos and other minorities, and shaping the next generation of transportation leaders. The signing of the MOU solidifies their commitment to working together to achieve these shared goals.

This partnership marks one of several MOUs that LIT plans to execute in 2024, demonstrating the organization's dedication to advancing its mission. LIT's current strategic partners include influential entities such as the American Public Transportation Association, Conference of Minority Transportation Officials, Women's Transportation Seminar, MV Transportation, KEOLIS, National Express, and the Texas Transit Association.

Latinos In Transit (LIT) announced its board for 2024 by confirming the appointment of officers and directors and welcoming two new directors.

The newly appointed officers will serve a two-year term starting January 2024, bringing a wealth of experience to their respective roles. The appointed officers are:

Herold Humphrey - President:

• Herold Humphrey, a seasoned transit professional serving as senior transit operations specialist at Jacobs, brings almost four decades of public and private transit experience to his role as president. Previously serving as the vice president of LIT for the last two years, his dedication and extensive knowledge make him an invaluable asset to the organization.

Elizabeth Carter - Vice President:

• Elizabeth Carter, assistant transit director at RIO Metropolitan Transit District and president of the New Mexico Transit Association, assumes the role of vice president after serving as secretary for the past two years. Her commitment to advancing transit initiatives combined with her leadership within the New Mexico Transit Association positions her as a dynamic force in shaping the future of LIT.

Eugenio Bonet - Treasurer:

• Eugenio Bonet, the architecture operations director at HNTB, continues with the responsibilities of treasurer. His financial acumen and strategic thinking will contribute significantly to LIT's fiscal management and long-term sustainability.

Megan Perrero - Secretary:

• Megan Perrero, partnerships and engagement specialist at the Shared-Use Mobility Center, assumes the role of secretary. Her expertise in fostering collaborations and community engagement aligns seamlessly with LIT's mission to create a more inclusive and accessible transit environment.

“I am truly honored for the opportunity to serve as President of Latinos In Transit.  The work that this organization does is meaningful and makes a positive impact on Latinos and other minorities.  I look forward to more collaboration with our team and our dedicated supporters to further our mission” said Humphrey.  

LIT also welcomes two new board members: Dietter Aragon, business development manager at The Routing Company, and Lina Aragon, operations manager at PalmTran. Dietter Aragon brings more than 22 years of comprehensive experience in the public and private transit sector to his new role as a board member. He began his transit journey in 2001 as a coach operator.

“I've witnessed firsthand the impact this organization has made on me and many others in our industry,” D. Aragon said. “I am grateful for the opportunity to continue contributing to an organization that is pivotal in advancing the transportation sector for minorities. As a board member, my commitment is to provide unwavering support to the next generation of Latinos and minorities eager to make their mark in our industry.”

Lina Aragon joins LIT as a distinguished board member with more than 15 years of experience in management, training, customer service, and operations. 

“When we support and work to advance and increase the participation of Latinos and other minorities in all transit and transportation industry levels, we build a better future for all,” L. Aragon said. “It is my honor to serve on the board of Latinos In Transit. I am committed to shape the ideas and put in practice initiatives to ensure a seat at the table for Latinos and all minorities.”

Other directors who were reappointed for a two-year term include:

• Hector Vargas, area safety director, MV Transportation

• Carmen Garcia, president/CEO, ABRAC, and board member for Dallas Area Rapid Transit

• Oscar Gonzalez, senior vice president of transit and rail market leader for the Capital Area, WSP USA

• Mariela Garcia-Colberg, senior program officer of the Transit Cooperative Research Program, Transportation Research Board

• José C. Feliciano Jr., intergovernmental affairs officer, Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority

• Rick Pulido, vice president of business development, National Express Shuttle & Transit

• Ivan Rodriguez, chief of staff, Jacksonville Transportation Authority 

Immediate past LIT President Alva Carrasco will serve as ex-officio. 

Alva Carrasco: Concludes Her Presidential Term at Latinos In Transit - A Transformative Legacy Unveiled

Since its establishment in 2016, Latinos In Transit (LIT) has experienced a remarkable journey, evolving from a small grassroots organization to a national nonprofit force in the transportation industry. This transformation has been made possible through the dedication of key individuals, and none have played a more pivotal role than Alva Carrasco, who served as the LIT Board President during a critical phase of growth and development of LIT and as LIT’s first vice president.  

In its infancy, LIT was propelled by the passion of a few founding members who envisioned a nationwide organization dedicated to addressing the unique needs and challenges faced by Latinos in the transit and transportation sector. Under the leadership of Milo Victoria, the organization made significant strides, establishing a foundation for growth and impact.

As Milo Victoria transitioned out of the role of president, Alva Carrasco stepped in, in 2019, to guide LIT to new heights. Recognizing the organization's eagerness to grow, she spearheaded the development of a strategic plan, a membership program, a scholarship program,  a committee structure and launched LIT’s first website, social media presence and rebranded LIT’s logo. Her leadership and strategic vision laid the groundwork for LIT's expansion beyond regional borders which now includes in-person and virtual programming such as the Leadership Summit and Leadership Academy. 

Her commitment to LIT went beyond her role as president. She dedicated countless hours to LIT marketing and administration during her free time, showcasing her unwavering dedication to the mission of the organization. As a representative of both the transit industry and the Latino community, Carrasco became a powerful advocate poised to lead the way in the c-suite of the transportation industry.

Under her leadership, LIT achieved numerous milestones and gained recognition within the transportation sector. The organization's mission to bridge gaps and promote diversity and inclusion resonated with many, leading to increased support and engagement. She forged partnerships with organizations such as the American Public Transportation Association, Transit Research Board, Conference of Minority Transportation Officials (COMTO) and Women Transportation Seminar and secured a  multi-year agreement with MV Transportation, Inc. 

During her tenure she was recognized for her advocacy work as a Top Latinos Leaders by the National Diversity Council for Latinos Workplace Equity in 2021 and as a COMTO Women Who Move The Nation honoree in 2022. 

As the year 2023 draws to a close, LIT bids farewell to Alva Carrasco as its Board President. Her legacy, however, will endure through the impact she has had on the organization. Her dedication, strategic initiatives, and tireless efforts have positioned LIT as a force to be reckoned with in the transportation sector. 

With Alva Carrasco's departure, LIT is set to embark on a new chapter under the leadership of its incoming president, Herold Humphrey. Carrasco’s commitment to the cause remains steadfast as she pledges to stay active within the organization, offering guidance and advice to ensure a seamless transition and continued success.

Carrasco’s impact will endure as LIT continues advocating for diversity, inclusion, and excellence within the transit and transportation industry.

{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.