The Purple Line

Dr. Rios is a pioneer in the healthcare industry. Born and raised in southeast Los Angeles and influenced by her civic-minded mother, Dr. Rios first entre into medicine was working as candy striper, studied at Stanford University, became campaign staffer, and working on Capitol Hill. Dr, Rios will tell you two things: A meaningful and successful career doesn't always travel in a straight line, and the importance of personal and professional networks. Join CHLI President & CEO, Mary Ann Gomez Orta as she interviews Dr. Rios and discuss her schooling, public service, and her deep gratitude to her mother and mentors.

Join us on The Purple Line as our host Mary Ann Gomez Orta sits down with Carlos A. Becerra, Associate Vice President of Government Relations at Florida International University (FIU)! From growing up in Miami to advocating for students at FIU in Washington, DC, Carlos shares how his journey fuels his mission to expand opportunity and elevate student success. With lifelong ties to FIU and a contagious “Go Panthers!” spirit, his story is a powerful testament to the impact of education, public service, and community-driven leadership.

This encore episode of the Purple Line is dedicated to celebrating the life and legacy of our dear friend and Founder of the Congressional Hispanic Leadership Institute, The Honorable Lincoln Díaz-Balart. His unwavering dedication to freedom, service, and the empowerment of future leaders continues to inspire us all. Lincoln's vision and passion will forever light our path, and we commit to carrying his torch forward.

Jorge Zamanillo is the Founding Director of the Smithsonian National Museum of the American Latino in Washington, DC. This episode of the CHLI Purple Line Podcast explores Jorge's Cuban-American experience from museum enthusiast to founding a national museum honoring the contributions of America's Hispanic communities.

Sol Ortega's life experience and career is a testament to hard work, taking brave steps, and the sacrifice of a loving family. Having immigrated from Peru at the age of seven, Sol focused on school, attended college, pursued internships, and launched her career in Washington, DC. After her internship as a CHLI Global Leader, Sol worked as a staffer on Capitol Hill, and then served at the White House as Advisor for Public Engagement. Sol is currently a Public Engagement Advisor, NASA. Listen to Sol Ortega share her experiences and explore how to support and mentor the next generation of talented Hispanic graduates.

After spending four months of on-the-job learning— first placement working on Capitol Hill for a member of Congress, and second placement at a CHLI corporate board members Washington office— these Global Leaders are going home wiser, better prepared, and with a valuable network of Washington, D.C. connections. Watch as our host Emily Benevides, invites our Fall 2024 cohort to share where they served, what they learned, and what advice they'd give to the next cohort of Global Leaders.

Join us on the Purple Line for a great discussion with U.S. Navy Veteran, Jeyben Castro, Community Outreach and Engagement Director, Office of the Chief Administrative Office at the U.S. House of Representatives, and recipient of the CHLI 2023 Vermillion Award. Jeyben Castro shares his journey migrating to the U.S. from Nicaragua to becoming a great mentor to Capitol Hill Staffers and supporting the next generation of Hispanic leaders by guiding them into meaningful careers.

Join us on The Purple Line as Amy Hinojosa, President and CEO of MANA, celebrates the organization's 50th anniversary with our host, Emily Benavides. In this episode, Amy Hinojosa shares MANA's mission to strengthen Latina women and girls through mentoring, education, and advocacy, while sharing her vision for the future. Her dedication to serving the Hispanic community truly shines.

Tune into our special episode featuring our Fall 2024 CHLI Global Leaders class. The Global Leaders sat down with our host, Emily Benavides, during the first few days of their time in Washington D.C. to hear about their impressions as they begin the program. We're confident you'll learn a valuable lesson—or two—listening to their astute and lively answers.

Eduardo Arabu is committed to hard work, education, serving others—and the value of diversity in the workplace. Learn how his experiences of migrating to the U.S. from Venezuela as a young child, to now serving as the Chief Executive Officer of the National Hispanic Corporate Council have influenced his view of the “American Dream”. Eduardo also explores the power of hard work, pushing boundaries, and the strength of mentors. Eduardo shares how his own commitment to diversity and CHLI's vision of “Advancing the Hispanic community's diversity of thought” have played such an important role in his career and his commitment to supporting the next generation of young Hispanic professionals.

Luis Martinez serves as the Senior Pentagon Reporter at ABC News. As a journalist covering national and international politics for 30 years Luis has risen up the ranks from Desk Assistant to industry veteran—in this Purple Line Podcast Luis shares how he got his first job, what sacrifices he made for his career, and how he's helping the next generation of your journalist. Luis also shares his experience of migrating to the U.S. with his family from Honduras, and how these experiences have influenced his education, career, and work ethic.

Gabriella Boffelli grew up under the authoritarian dictatorship of Daniel Ortega in Nicaragua which helped shape Gabriella's view of on politics, international relations, and the value of freedom. Gabriella now serves as Chief of Staff for Congresswoman Jenniffer González-Colón of Puerto Rico. Listen to Gabriella discuss her career growth from staff assistant to the Honorable Ileana Ros-Lehtinen to rising to the role of Chief of Staff, the politics of Puerto Rico, and the island's desire for statehood. We are honored to have Gabriella Boffelli as our Purple Line Podcast guest for the month of July.

Keith Fernandez, outgoing host of the CHLI Purple Line Podcast Series and President of the CHLI Alumni Association, gives new Purple Line host CHLI Senior Communications Advisor and 2021 Vermillion Honoree Emily Benavides, tips, encouragement, and shares entertaining anecdotes about interviewing CHLI Chairman Emeritus the Honorable Lincoln Diaz-Balart and current CHLI Chairwoman, the Honorable Ileana Ros-Lehtinen.

Host Keith Fernandez sits down with CHLI Chairman and Founder, The Honorable Lincoln Diaz-Balart. They discuss his impactful career in Congress, the importance of bipartisanship, and CHLI's mission.

Join us on The Purple Line, Episode 29, featuring the incredible Cesar Prieto, Chief of Staff to Representative Tony Gonzales and a distinguished 2019 CHLI Global Leader. In this insightful episode, they discover how Cesar's CHLI Global Leader internship ignited his career in Washington, D.C., and learn about his philosophy as the "Chief of Culture," striving to foster an inclusive and dynamic workplace environment. Tune in to learn from one of the youngest Chief of Staffs on Capitol Hill and celebrate his journey and achievements. Listen as Cesar discusses his commitment to excellence in leadership and building a positive culture in government. Don't miss this inspiring conversation on leadership, culture, and crossing borders—both literal and metaphorical.

This Women's History Month, we are doing a special re-release of our podcast featuring the Honorable Ileana Ros-Lehtinen, who now serves as CHLI Chairwoman. Hosted by Keith Fernandez the pair dive into her trailblazing journey from the heart of South Florida to the halls of Congress, her pivotal role in U.S. foreign policy, and her unwavering commitment to democracy and human rights.

This #WomensHistoryMonth, CHLI is honored to feature Elaine Coronado, a remarkable businesswoman and philanthropist, on the Purple Line Podcast with host Keith Fernandez. From lessons learned from her military dad to the global experiences that shaped her outlook on life, Elaine opens up about her journey. As CEO & Chief Strategist of Argus Events + Marketing, she shares her zeal for crafting events that inspire communities. Hear about her achievements, including being recognized as one of the Top 100 Influential Hispanics in the U.S., and her dedication to giving back. Tune in to be inspired!

In CHLI's latest episode of The Purple Line Podcast, we're honored to be joined by David Olivencia, CEO of Angeles Investors and author of 'NetWORKing Excellence. Tune in to hear about David's influential work as an angel investor supporting Latino business leaders, strong support of STEM education, and the lessons he's learned throughout his successful career. #TheCHLI #ThePurpleLinePodcast #NetWORKingExcellence #STEM #LatinoLeadership

On this episode of The Purple Line host Keith Fernandez sits down with the inspiring Angela Anderson Guerrero, the executive director of Lideramos, a national Latino leadership development organization.  Angela's passion for cultivating Latino leaders and her pursuit to increase their representation across the United States is a remarkable effort. She shares how incorporating cultural values and experiences into leadership development can help individuals create their unique leadership brand.The conversation explores the personal growth and self-discovery that comes with participating in a leadership program, and how it can shape one's leadership brand.We also explore Angela's personal journey and her belief in planning and being open to change, providing insight into the woman behind the leadership. This episode is a testament to Angela's dedication to empowering the Latino community through leadership development, and her story is bound to inspire.

Sara Guerrero, who is a Communications Director for Congressman Robert Garcia, talks with Keith Fernandez about her career journey, experiences living in Capitol Hill and the importance of relationships and networking in the field of politics.Sara shares her experiences of making tough career decisions and how she's grown more comfortable with them over time. The conversation focuses on Sara Guerrero's career in public service, her journey, and her commitment to diverse representation in politics and on Capitol Hill. Guerrero shares her experiences of making tough career decisions and how she's grown more comfortable with them over time.The conversation also emphasizes Sara's dedication to representing diverse voices and communities.She shares life lessons on the importance of relationships, mentorship, and supporting the professional growth of individuals from diverse backgrounds.

In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, Keith Fernandez sits down with Colonel Gil Coronado, the father of Hispanic Heritage Month. They discuss the history of expanding the celebration from a week to a month and why we celebrate it. Learn more about the Colonel's life story and achievements in this month's episode of The Purple Line.Gil Coronado retired from the United States Air Force on August 1, 1989 as a Colonel after serving his country for thirty years. Gil Coronado enlisted in the U.S. Air Force at the age of sixteen, and his life story reads like a novel. The recipient of such awards as the 1982 European "Commander of the Year”, and a 1984 inductee into the U.S. army officer candidate school "Hall of Fame”, Colonel Coronado was named the 1988 "Serviceman of the Year” by the American G. I. Forum of the United States, and was the recipient of the league of United Latin American citizens (LULAC) 1989 president's award.

In this month's episode of The Purple Line, Keith sits down with CHLI Treasurer John Hoel. He shares his journey of success that started with an internship. He also shares his points of view on diversity of thought, public and private sector work, and advice for people interested in a career in Washington, D.C.John Hoel is Director, Federal Government Affairs for Altria Client Services. John has served on the Board of Directors of the Congressional Hispanic Leadership Institute since 2008. He currently serves as the Chair of the Fundraising Committee and mentor to CHLI's Global Leaders Program interns and fellows.

In this month's episode of The Purple Line, Keith sits down with Alejandro Alba, Public Affairs Specialist at FEMA's Office of External Affairs and a 2014 CHLI Global Leader. He shares his experience being a CHLI intern and his career working in the nation's capital at FEMA. He also offers insight into furthering one's education in a postgraduate setting.

In honor of Women's History Month, Keith sits down with Rep. Sharlett Mena - the first CHLI alumna elected into public office at the state level. Rep. Mena represents Washington's 29th district in the Washington State House of Representatives. She shares her story of the path to public service, her humble beginnings through CHLI's internship program, and what she hopes to succeed during her tenure.Learn more about Rep. Mena and her agenda: https://www.sharlettmena.org/

In honor of American Heart Month, Keith sits down with Jeff Holden, founder of Multipoint Content Strategies and the host of Imperfect Heart. He shares the personal story behind his diagnosis of a Myocardial Bridge and offers insight into how people of all ages and backgrounds can improve their livelihood.Imperfect Heart is a podcast designed for, hosted by and recorded with those affected by or involved with the care and support for those with the birth defect of a Myocardial Bridge. Learn more about Imperfect Heart and where to stream it: https://www.myimperfectheart.com/

In this month's episode of The Purple Line, Keith sits down with Dina Siegel Vann, Director of the American Jewish Committee (AJC) Belfer Institute for Latino and Latin American Affairs. She discusses her career in building global Latino-Jewish bridges and shares advice on how young leaders can take action to help the community combat antisemitism.In her AJC role, DIna has traveled widely and developed a network of diplomatic and political contacts. Check out AJC's Translate Hate Glossary: https://www.ajc.org/translatehateglossaryLearn more about AJC: https://www.ajc.org/

In this month's episode of The Purple Line, Keith sits down with Rafael Bernal, a Staff Writer at The Hill. He discusses the importance of Latino representation in politics and journalism that affects the community nationally.Rafael Bernal is a Staff Writer for The Hill, where he covers Hispanic politics by focusing on Latino leaders, issues that affect the Latino community at a national level, including Puerto Rico, and relations between the United States and Latin America. Through The Hill Latino, Rafael has opened to the mainstream coverage of a political phenomenon that is at the center of political discourse in the United States. 

In this month's episode, Keith sits down with Juan Carlos Martinez Jr., Vice President of The Wendy Martinez Legacy Project. They discuss the foundation's history, Wendy's legacy, and mission.Juan Carlos Martinez Jr. is the brother of Wendy K. Martinez, a CHLI alumna who lost her life in Washington, D.C., on September 18, 2018. He and his family created The Wendy Martinez Legacy Project in honor of his sister. They provide strategic grants and support projects encouraging women's empowerment through running, technology, entrepreneurship and leadership.Learn more about getting involved and supporting the organization's efforts: https://www.wendyslegacy.org/

In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, Keith Fernandez sits with CHLI Chairman and Founder, The Honorable Lincoln Diaz-Balart. They discuss his impactful career in Congress, the importance of bipartisanship, and CHLI's mission.

In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, Keith Fernandez sits down with Colonel Gil Coronado, the father of Hispanic Heritage Month. They discuss the history of expanding the celebration from a week to a month and why we celebrate it. Learn more about the Colonel's life story and achievements in this month's episode of The Purple Line.Gil Coronado retired from the United States Air Force on August 1, 1989 as a Colonel after serving his country for thirty years. Gil Coronado enlisted in the U.S. Air Force at the age of sixteen, and his life story reads like a novel. The recipient of such awards as the 1982 European "Commander of the Year”, and a 1984 inductee into the U.S. army officer candidate school "Hall of Fame”, Colonel Coronado was named the 1988 "Serviceman of the Year” by the American G. I. Forum of the United States, and was the recipient of the league of United Latin American citizens (LULAC) 1989 president's award.

In this month's episode, Keith Fernandez sits down with Danny Vargas, an award-winning noted business and community leader, accomplished media commentator, and marketing/public relations professional. They discuss the successful effort in passing the authorization bill in Congress to establish the National Museum of the American Latino and the importance of telling Latino stories in the nation's capital.Danny Vargas is the Founder/President of VARCom Solutions, a nationally recognized, marketing, public relations, and professional services firm. Founder/Chairman/CEO of the American Latino Veterans Association (ALVA), focused on helping Latino veterans thrive and recognizing their contributions to our military since 1776. He is Chairman Emeritus of the Friends of the National Museum of the American Latino. The Molina Family Latino Gallery is the first physical presence of the National Museum of the American Latino. It's now open at the National Museum of American History. Learn more about the exhibit at: https://latino.si.edu/exhibitions/presenteTo learn more about the National Museum of the American Latino, visit https://latino.si.edu/

In this month's episode, Keith Fernandez sits down with CHLI Award winners Emily Benavides, recipient of the Stephen D. Vermillion CHLI Congressional Staff Appreciation Award, and Tony Flores, recipient of the Wendy Martinez CHLI Alumni Community Engagement Award. They discuss their experience working on Capitol Hill and provide insight for future Hispanic leaders.Emily Benavides is a Republican communications operative, with extensive statewide and presidential campaign experience in national and Hispanic media. Benavides is currently serving as Ranking Member Rob Portman's Communications Director at the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, strategically advising him on his media presence in her home state of Ohio and nationwide.Tony Flores was raised in the city of Anaheim, CA. As the first-generation son of Mexican immigrant parents, Tony is personally invested in issues revolving around social justice, equity, and community development. Tony transitioned into a new role as a Field Representative for the District Office of CA State Assemblymember Tom Daly. Tony also serves on the Parks and Recreation Commission for the City of Anaheim.

In this month's episode, Keith Fernandez sits down with Janelle Perez, candidate for the Florida State Senate, to discuss her inspiring story of running for public office as a first-time candidate.Janelle Perez is a mother, small business owner, and cancer survivor at the forefront of the fight for equality. Born and raised in Miami, Janelle saw her parents become successful entrepreneurs after fleeing Castro's dictatorship. Now, she's running for the Florida State Senate to fight for opportunities for every child and family. Her personal experience battling illness and professional experience as an advocate and business owner has deepened her commitment to ensuring every Floridian has access to affordable, high-quality healthcare. Learn more about Janelle and her journey at janelleperez.com 

In this month's episode of The Purple Line, Keith Fernandez sits down with former Congresswoman, The Honorable Ileana Ros-Lehtinen, to discuss her political career representing South Florida.The Honorable Ileana Ros-Lehtinen served for almost three decades as a member of Congress representing a congressional district in South Florida and was the first Hispanic and Cuban-American woman to serve in Congress.As a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, she became a leader in crafting U.S. foreign policy. She served as the Committee's Chairwoman, and Chair or Co-Chair of multiple subcommittees.Ileana has been a consistent voice for democratic movements in all corners of the globe. Starting with her native island of Cuba, in opposition to the Cuban regime, she has been and remains an outspoken advocate for freedom, democracy, the rule of law and human rights.Former Congresswoman Ros-Lehtinen now serves as a Senior Advisor at Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP in Washington, D.C. and serves as a Corporate Board Member at CHLI. She also serves as Chairman of the CHLI “We Belong” Scholarship Campaign. A strong proponent of education, Ileana holds multiple education degrees, including an Ed.D. from the University of Miami, and master's and bachelor's degrees from Florida International University. She began her career as a Florida certified teacher, and then founded, and served as the principal of, a private bilingual elementary school.

In the relaunch episode of The Purple Line Podcast, Keith Fernandez sits down with CHLI President & CEO, Mary Ann Gomez Orta, to discuss her experience and background from corporate America to the non-profit world.

Mauricio Villacres is the Programs Assistant at the Congressional Hispanic Leadership Institute (CHLI). Previous to his current role, he was hired remotely in July 2020 as Programs Fellow. Soon he will be relocating to Washington D.C. to work alongside the rest of the CHLI team in-person once COVID-19 restrictions allow. Eric Di Monte is the Director of Talent Acquisition at Warner Music Group. With over 15 years of recruitment experience, Eric has worked in both the corporate and agency environments to attract talent, especially among the professional Latino community. Joining his current organization within the scope of the COVID-19 pandemic, he understands how recruitment affects both those looking for a job and the recruiter in a virtual landscape. 

E. Carmen Ramos is the Acting Chief Curator and Curator of Latinx Art for the Smithsonian American Art Museum. Ramos's most recent exhibition is ¡Printing the Revolution! The Rise and Impact of Chicano Graphics, 1965 to Now, scheduled to open in November 2020. From satire and portraiture to politicized pop, this exhibition examines how artists created visually captivating graphics that catalyzed audiences into social justice action. Vibrant posters and prints announced labor strikes and cultural events, highlighted the plight of political prisoners, educated viewers in Third World liberation movements, and, most significantly, challenged the invisibility of Mexican Americans in U.S. societyMireya Loza curated significant Latino content for the exhibit Girlhood (Ser chica es complicado). The exhibit, now open, commemorates the anniversary of women's suffrage by exploring the concept of what it means to grow up female in the United States. And we see that girls, even though they may not have a vote, use their voices to effect change.To learn more about the exhibits, visit: https://americanart.si.edu/exhibitions/chicano-graphics https://americanhistory.si.edu/girlhood*The two museums are open but require visitors to reserve free timed entry passes before

Voting is a fundamental component of our democracy, designed so that We the People, would be the ones to determine the way we shape our society. Over the years, the right to vote in America has evolved and although many movements made this possible, they weren't necessarily inclusive and didn't erase barriers or discrimination that citizens would continue to fight for years to come. On this episode, American Politics Professor at Florida International University, Dr. Kathryn DePalo-Gould takes us back to the start and talks us through the evolution of voting in America. Dr. DePalo-Gould is the author of “The Failure of Term Limits in Florida,” which examines the effects of term limits on Florida's State legislature. She has extensive experience in state and local government processes and elections and has managed several campaigns. Her teaching focus is American politics, including judicial process, gender and politics, and state and local government. Dr. DePalo's primary research interest is in Florida politics, and has published on topics such as state judicial selection, the effects of gender in state legislative politics, and career paths of term-limited legislators.

From the Ford Motor Company Program to the Gateway to Madrid Program, and more recently the Global Leaders Program, CHLI continues to provide first-class leadership development programs for Hispanic college students nationwide. In this episode, we chat with CHLI Alumni who share first-hand how these programs empowered and shaped their lives. Keith Fernandez (Ford Motor Company CHLI Program, 2006), Michael Monrroy (Gateway to Madrid Program, 2010), and Lucinda Borque (Global Leaders Program, 2016) each recall their experiences. From the application process to their reactions about being selected, as well as how they navigated a new city away from friends and family. They reminisce about their first day on the job, lasting impressions, and what they're currently up to now. Today, CHLI internship & fellowship programs include the CHLI Global Leaders Program, Communications Fellowship Program, and its newly launched University of Miami Law Summer Fellowship Program. To learn more about CHLI visit us at www.chli.org.

Financial anxiety is a burden for many college students, forcing them to turn down unpaid opportunities for jobs that can help make ends meet. Pay Our Interns was founded by two former unpaid interns in 2016 who have been working closely with Congress for more paid internships. On this episode, Co-Founder, Carlos Vera shares the launch of the organization and the impact they've had for youth employment. We also discuss how Pay Our Interns stepped up during this on-going pandemic by setting up an interns relief fund and advocating for virtual internships. To learn more about the organization, visit payourinterns.org.

Landing a role after college has become increasingly competitive for graduating seniors, especially with the added stress of COVID-19 and its subsequent shortage in positions. Author of "Mastering College to Career" and motivational speaker, Daniel Botero explains that although it may be a challenge, it is not impossible. On this episode, Daniel provides a sneak peek of his keynote address for CHLI's Future Leaders Virtual Conference on July 23rd. He shares his expertise on how you can stand out from hundreds of applications, and touches on important topics of imposter syndrome and staying motivated through challenging times. To learn more about the upcoming CHLI conference, visit www.chli.org/flc.

Films have possibly become our most accessible form of escape, from within our walls, and time after time we have witnessed the power of film inspire individuals and sometimes cause an uproar within society. During this episode, we explore the relationship between films and politics and the role they play for a more diverse and inclusive culture. Featuring Jeyben Castro (Republican Initiative) and Kemba Hendrix (Democrat Initiative) from the House Office of Diversity & Inclusion and Josh Welsh, President of Film Independent, we take a closer look at statistics in the workforce and how it impacts business, as well as behind the scenes decisions and what we can do now to prevent COVID-19 from setting us back as we move to a more digital future. To learn more about Film Independent's programs and/or become a member visit www.filmindependent.org. To learn more about the Committee on House Administration Democrats visit www.cha.house.gov. For more information on the work the Committee on House Administration Republicans and to see current job openings visit www.housegopjobs.com.

In this episode, we interview CHLI Alumnus and Public Affairs Specialist at FEMA, Alejandro Alba. He shares how the agency adapts while discussing the actions they are taking to help vulnerable communities and individuals coping with anxiety and depression. He also sheds light on FEMA myths and rumors and shares how you can work with the agency to help those in need. To read about the agency's response efforts, states approved for disaster assistance, rumors control, and how to work with the agency to help those in need, please visit FEMA's webpage on COVID-19 : www.fema.gov/coronavirus. For additional COVID-19 advice, please visit www.coronavirus.gov.

On the launch of The Purple Line, we chat with CHLI President and CEO, Mary Ann Gomez Orta, and explore its semester-long internship program, as well as how CHLI plans to educate, engage and empower young voters to make their mark in the 2020 election. To apply to the CHLI Global Leaders Internship Program, please visit www.chli.org/global-leaders-program.