Women | Business | Wellness Series Launches in Temecula

Women | Business | Wellness Series Launches in Temecula

Women | Business | Wellness Series Launches in Temecula

Temecula, California — March 26, 2026

In what marks the beginning of a new era for Hispanic Lifestyle’s in-person experiences, the inaugural Women | Business | Wellness Series brought together a dynamic and thoughtfully curated audience inside the women’s store at Macy’s Temecula.

Designed as an invitation-only gathering, the evening reflected a shift in how HL convenes its community—more intentional, more personal, and more connected.

Guests were welcomed with a glass of sparkling wine and a curated gift bag, setting the tone for an experience that blended professional insight with lifestyle engagement.

Event Photo Gallery

A full collection of moments from the Women | Business | Wellness Series launch is now available. From candid conversations to powerful exchanges on stage, the gallery captures the energy, connection, and experience of the evening.

2026 Women | Business | Wellness Series

A Curated Experience at the Center of It All

Set in the heart of the cosmetics and fashion floor, the event transformed a retail environment into a live forum for ideas, inspiration, and connection.

The space was filled with professional women from across the Inland Empire community leaders, entrepreneurs, business owners, and elected officials creating a room rich with perspective and shared ambition.

The energy extended beyond invited guests. Passersby paused, observed, and leaned in. Several asked how they could become part of the HL community some ultimately joining the experience in real time.

That response said everything: this wasn’t just an event it was a signal of what’s next.

Voices That Set the Tone

The evening featured conversations centered on dressing for success, presentation skills, confidence, and entrepreneurship topics that resonated deeply with attendees.

Prior to the event, Genoveva L. Arellano shared her enthusiasm:

“I have a lot to say about women, business and wellness… thank you Hispanic Lifestyle for this conversation!”

Her perspective, along with fellow speakers, set the tone for a meaningful and engaging dialogue focused on growth, presence, and leadership.

A Community Responds

The impact of the evening was best reflected in the voices of those in the room.

As shared by Jackie Scott:

“Put on your imagination cap for a second—a successful women-packed event in the center of Macy’s Temecula cosmetic department. Yes, you read that right.”

“So many women came out ready to be engaged and open… sharing valuable insight around confidence, presence, finding your voice, and styling your next move.”

“You found a special way to carry out what you do best—creating connections.”

Her reflections captured the essence of the evening—an environment where women showed up ready to engage, learn, and support one another.

Partners and Community Support

The success of the Women | Business | Wellness kickoff event was made possible through the collaboration of valued partners and community leaders.

We extend our appreciation to our host partner, Macy’s Temecula, whose team created a welcoming and engaging environment that elevated the entire experience.

We also recognize the support of our community host partners, including the Inland Empire Women’s Business Center, credit.org, and Arellano Associates, Inc..

Additional thanks to LatinosTalk for their engagement and support.

Guests also enjoyed thoughtfully prepared offerings from our catering partners, Simply Cheese and Yums by Maria, whose presentation and quality added to the overall experience of the evening.

PRESENTER

Genoveva L. Arellano is the Founder and President & CEO of Arellano Associates, Inc., a leading consulting firm specializing in public outreach and communications for transportation, urban planning, energy and water initiatives.

With more than 30 years of experience, Ms. Arellano has led the development of innovative engagement strategies that integrate digital tools, creative design, and inclusive community outreach. She provides strategic leadership on multi-jurisdictional infrastructure programs, including transportation, energy, water and other local planning projects, helping agencies incorporate meaningful public input into project development.

Her bilingual proficiency and deep connection to the Latino community have made her a trusted advisor for projects aimed at Spanish-speaking and underserved populations.

PRESENTER

Michelle Taylor is a senior operations executive with extensive experience in nonprofit financial counseling, housing programs, and regulatory compliance. At Credit.org, she serves as Senior Vice President of Business Operations, overseeing national programs in credit counseling, debt management, and housing stability. Her leadership ensures adherence to NFCC and HUD standards while advancing operational efficiency, staff development, and measurable client outcomes.

Michelle is recognized for building scalable systems, leading high-performing teams, and executing grant-funded programs with accuracy, accountability, and a commitment to financial empowerment. Her cross-agency experience makes her a trusted leader in implementing large-scale, mission-driven programs with both precision and empathy.

PRESENTER

Jackie Scott is the Director of the Inland Empire Women’s Business Center (IEWBC), where she leads efforts to help entrepreneurs start, grow, and scale successful businesses. A former entrepreneur with over 25 years of experience building and operating a wholesale distribution company, Jackie brings real-world insight to the founders and business owners she serves.

Beyond her role at IEWBC, Jackie is a recognized leader in the small business ecosystem. She serves on the CA WBC Network Steering Committee, chairs its Advocacy Committee, and holds board positions with the Microenterprise Collaborative Inland Southern California and the Association of Women’s Business Centers, where she also serves as Advocacy Committee Co-Chair.

The Beginning of What’s Next

This kickoff event represents more than a single evening it signals the launch of an ongoing series designed to elevate conversations around business, wellness, and personal growth.

With additional locations already in development, Hispanic Lifestyle is actively seeking partners who align with this vision of curated, high-impact community engagement.

Closing Perspective

What took place in Temecula was intentional.

It was a reintroduction of how Hispanic Lifestyle brings people together not just to attend, but to engage, reflect, and connect.

This is the direction forward.

How to Get Involved

This is an invitation-only experience—by design.

The Women | Business | Wellness Series is built around a curated audience of professionals, entrepreneurs, and community leaders who value meaningful connection and purposeful conversation.

There are several ways to be part of what’s next:

Attend an Upcoming Experience

Participation is limited to ensure a high-quality environment.
Priority consideration is given to subscribers of HL | Update and members of the HL Partner Network.

Become a Community Host Partner

We collaborate with organizations that are actively engaged in their communities and want to bring people together in a meaningful way.
Host partners receive a limited number of curated invitations and are recognized across our platforms.

Partner or Sponsor the Series

We are actively developing future events and welcome aligned partners who see value in connecting with a professional audience through content, experiences, and community engagement.

Submit a Speaker or Contributor

We welcome professionals with expertise in business, wellness, leadership, and personal growth to be considered for future programs.

Stay Connected

To receive updates, invitations, and announcements for upcoming events:

👉 Subscribe to HL | Update
👉 Follow Hispanic Lifestyle across our platforms

COMMUNITY HOST PARTNERS

HL | Milestone – New York

HL | Milestone – New York

A curated reception, leadership forum, and awards experience designed to recognize those shaping business, community, and culture.

A Curated Reception

Each Milestone Series event begins with a private, curated reception that brings together a select group of professionals, decision-makers, and community leaders.

This is a space designed for intentional connection where conversations are meaningful, relationships are strengthened, and the people in the room reflect a shared commitment to leadership and progress.

Event Overview

Date: Wednesday, May 20, 2026
Time: 5:00 PM – 7:30 PM
Location: Bally’s Golf Links at Ferry Point
500 Hutchinson Riv Pkwy, Bronx, NY 10465

5:00 PM – Guest Arrival & Networking Reception
Guests arrive and enjoy an evening of conversation, hors d’oeuvres, and relationship building in a curated room of influence.

5:30 PM – Welcome Remarks
Opening comments from Richard Sandoval and a welcome from our Funding Partner, Wells Fargo.

5:45 PM – Leadership Forum
Capital, Real Estate & Your Wealth Strategy in a Changing Economy
A timely conversation featuring leaders from business, finance, and real estate.

6:30 PM – HL | Milestone Recognition Ceremony
Honoring individuals and organizations whose leadership, influence, and legacy continue to shape our communities.

2026 HL | Milestone Series – New York Honorees

  • Ana Ceppi
    Co-Founder, Multicultural Growth Partners
  • Saraciea J. Fennell
    Founder, The Bronx Is Reading / Bronx Book Festival
  • Esperanza Teasdale
    Executive & Fractional Chief Marketing Officer
  • Elizabeth C. Yeampierre
    Executive Director, UPROSE
  • Felix Cabreja
    CEO, A&H Security
  • Fernando Brinn
    CEO, The Brinn Group
  • Diana Caba
    Vice President for Community & Economic Development, Hispanic Federation
  • Michelle Herrera Mulligan
    Vice President & Associate Publisher, Primero Sueño Press, an imprint of Atria Books and Simon & Schuster
  • Maria Rios
    CEO, Classico Building Maintenance Inc.
  • NAWBO NYC
    Recognized for its leadership in supporting women business owners throughout New York City.
  • Rhina Valentin
    TV Host, Actress, Producer

7:15 PM – Closing Remarks & Group Photo
A celebration of our honorees followed by final networking opportunities.

7:30 PM – Event Concludes

VENUE 

Location:

Bally’s Golf Links at

Ferry Point  500 Hutchinson Riv Pkwy

Bronx, NY 10465

Leadership Forum

Capital, Real Estate and Your Wealth Strategy in a Changing Economy

The evening will feature a timely leadership forum focused on how business owners, professionals, and community leaders are navigating today’s changing economy.

The discussion will explore:

  • Capital and access to lending
  • Real estate and wealth-building strategies
  • Business growth in uncertain markets
  • How economic shifts are influencing investment decisions
  • The role of trusted relationships in long-term financial planning

This conversation is designed for leaders who are making decisions, building relationships, and thinking about what comes next.

Nelson Ramos - Moderator

Senior Business Growth Strategy Consultant, Customer Growth Segments, Wells Fargo

Nelson Ramos is a Senior Business Growth Strategy Consultant with Wells Fargo & Company  where he develops growth strategies and strategic partnerships designed to expand sustainable homeownership and strengthen community impact.

Based in the Northeast, Nelson supports initiatives across Connecticut, New York, and New Jersey, working closely with organizations, community leaders, and financial professionals to create pathways to homeownership and long-term financial stability.

He brings more than 30 years of experience in financial services, including 26 years in the mortgage industry. Throughout his career, Nelson has held leadership roles with JPMorgan Chase, SunTrust Bank, Radian Guaranty and Charles Schwab Bank.

A respected voice in housing and community development, Nelson previously served as Chair of the Board of Governors for NAHREP, where he helped advance policies and initiatives that promote Hispanic homeownership nationwide.

Lucy Wu - Panelist

Lucy Wu is a Corcoran Group real estate agent, entrepreneur, and lifelong New Yorker who brings an unusually layered lens to real estate in The City. Born in Shanghai, China and raised in Brooklyn, New York, Lucy spent more than twenty years inside iconic luxury fashion lifestyle houses including Vera Wang and Ralph Lauren before turning that operator’s mindset fully toward real estate.

Today, Lucy averages $20M in annual sales volume as a solo agent across New York City, representing buyers, sellers, and landlords in condos, co-ops, and townhomes. She is ranked among the top 1.5% of real estate professionals nationwide by RealTrends Verified and is named annually to Corcoran’s Million-Dollar Club. Beyond being an agent, Lucy is a personal real estate investor across New York, Connecticut, and Florida, and a coach to her clients globally, as they navigate one of the most complex housing markets in the country.

Lucy is an active chapter leader with NAHREP Manhattan the National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals’ local chapter — where she helps drive community outreach, educational programming, and business networking for Manhattan’s real estate community. She also serves as an Agent Ambassador to REBNY’s Deal of the Year and Member in Need Fund Committee, where she helps fundraise and grow member engagement for the annual event. Lucy has spoken publicly on housing access and prepared a congressional briefing for the offices of New York State Congressman Dan Goldman and Senator Chuck Schumer on the NAHREP State of Hispanic Homeownership Report.

She leads with strategy, emotional intelligence, and heart the same qualities that have made her a trusted advisor across New York’s real estate, investment, and business community.

Eric Gotsch - Panelist

Eric Gotsch is the New York Market Manager for Wells Fargo Home Lending. In this role, he oversees, manages, and develops the company’s Home Mortgage retail sales team in New York City and Long Island, which includes 3 regional offices and more than 120 employees. He is responsible for the successful execution of home mortgage and asset management services to a wide range of customers across the five boroughs, as well as Nassau and Suffolk counties.

 

Gotsch, who joined Wells Fargo in 2010, has more than 39 years of experience in the residential real estate industry. Prior to Wells Fargo, he spent 20 years at JP Morgan Chase and served as Head of Retail Mortgage Production for their Northeast Division

 

He is graduate of the University of Maryland with a bachelor’s degree in finance and earned his MBA from Fairleigh Dickinson University.

Esperanza Teasdale - Panelist

Esperanza Teasdale is an award-winning executive, certified executive coach, and Founder, Mariposa Zenith a leadership advisory firm focused on helping executives lead with greater intentionality, mindfulness, and cultural fluency.

Over a distinguished corporate career spanning more than 30 years, Esperanza held senior leadership roles at PepsiCo and Unilever, where she led growth strategies for globally recognized brands including Pepsi and Propel and managed relationships with major retailers such as 7-Eleven and Dollar General.

She is widely recognized for her expertise in integrating business strategy, creativity, and analytics to deliver measurable growth while helping organizations connect more effectively with multicultural consumers.

In 2025, Esperanza launched Mariposa Zenith and introduced two signature frameworks: The Cultural Fluency Advantage and The Mindful Leadership Advantage, which combine executive coaching, inclusivity, and mindfulness to help leaders and organizations thrive.

Her many honors include induction into the American Marketing Association New York Hall of Fame, recognition as Hispanic Marketer of the Year, Campaign US’s “Female Frontier” award, and inclusion in People en Español’s “25 Most Powerful Women” list.

Among her notable achievements, she led the launch of PepsiCo’s Juntos Crecemos initiative, which helped drive significant growth while supporting Hispanic-owned small businesses across the United States.

Lisa Sorin - Panelist

President, Bronx Chamber of Commerce

Lisa Sorin is President of the Bronx Chamber of Commerce and the first woman to lead the organization in its history. She also made history as the Chamber’s first female Board Chair, helping pave the way for a new generation of women leaders in business and community development.

Under Lisa’s leadership, the Bronx Chamber has expanded its role as a powerful advocate for businesses throughout the borough, supporting entrepreneurs, strengthening strategic partnerships, and promoting policies that advance economic opportunity.

Lisa is widely recognized as one of the Bronx’s most influential civic and business leaders. She serves on the boards of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, Chamber Alliance of New York State, New York State Choice Savings Program, and Bronx Council on the Arts. She also serves on the New York City Districting Commission and the Small Business Advisory Commission, where she co-chairs the Licensing, Fees, and Fines Subcommittee.

Before joining the Bronx Chamber, Lisa served as Executive Director of the Westchester Square Business Improvement District, where she led economic development initiatives, enhanced marketing efforts, and launched community programs that increased engagement and revitalized the district.

She is also the founder of LAS Consulting Services, Inc., a firm that provided marketing, public relations, and event planning services to nonprofit and corporate clients for more than 15 years.

Lisa holds a master’s degree in Business Leadership and a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Concordia College. She established the Bronx Chamber of Commerce Scholarship Program, which annually awards scholarships to young women in the Bronx during Women’s History Month.

Her leadership has earned her numerous honors, including recognition as one of the “25 Most Influential Women of the Bronx” by the Bronx Times Reporter and accolades from organizations such as the American Red Cross, the American Cancer Society, and New York City Parks and Recreation.

A lifelong advocate for the Bronx, Lisa is driven by a commitment to strengthening her community and inspiring future generations through leadership, service, and opportunity.

Sandra Bonilla Panelist

Financial Advisor, Wells Fargo Advisors

Sandra Bonilla is a Financial Advisor with Wells Fargo Advisors and a member of The Voyage Group. She works with individuals, families, and small business owners to help them build, preserve, and transfer wealth through thoughtful, personalized financial planning.

Sandra began her career in financial services while attending university in 2011. After earning her degree in Finance and International Business from Fairfield University, she joined Morgan Stanley before moving to Wells Fargo Advisors, where she developed her passion for wealth management.

She takes a comprehensive approach to financial planning, helping clients navigate retirement planning, education funding, wealth preservation, charitable giving, and tax-efficient investment strategies. Sandra carefully reviews each client’s full financial picture, including cash reserves, liability management, investments, insurance, estate planning strategies, and employee stock options.

Known for her high level of personal service, Sandra also helps develop customized investment plans and leads social media initiatives that create new ways to connect with clients and the broader community.

Beyond her professional work, Sandra is deeply committed to giving back. She serves as a financial coach with The Women’s Development Council and is a board member of Lifting Up Westchester.

When she is not advising clients, Sandra enjoys travel, fitness, and outdoor activities including running, skiing, and hiking.

FUNDING PARTNER

Wells Fargo Logo

HL | Culture & Influence is proud to announce Wells Fargo as a Funding Partner of the HL | Milestone Series “an invitation-only” leadership experience recognizing individuals and organizations shaping business, community, and culture.

As part of this collaboration, Wells Fargo will support the Milestone Series across three key markets in 2026: Orange County, New York, and Silicon Valley.

“We are proud to collaborate with Wells Fargo as a Funding Partner of the Milestone Series,” said Richard Sandoval, Storyteller | Producer | Connector, HL | Culture & Influence. “Their support allows us to elevate conversations, recognize leadership, and create spaces where relationships and ideas can move forward with purpose.”

ORANGE COUNTY HL | MILESTONE KICK OFF EVENT

ANNOUNCING THE MILESTONE SERIES

THE EXPERIENCE

A curated, invitation-only reception

A leadership forum featuring market-relevant insights

Recognition of selected honorees

An elevated setting designed for meaningful engagement

Upcoming Events

OUR MILESTONE HONOREES

Milestone | Judith Valles

HL | Milestone SeriesFor generations, Mayor Judith Valles represented the very best in public service. As an educator, trailblazer, and the first Hispanic elected Mayor of the City of San Bernardino, she dedicated her life to expanding opportunities for others while...

A Question Worth Asking

HL | Milestone SeriesHow a conversation between a high school student and artist Carlos Pérez became one of the most memorable moments of the HL | Milestone Series in Silicon Valley.Photos and article by Richard SandovalArtist and designer Carlos Pérez with Nicholas...

HL | Milestone Series – Honors Jazmin Diaz

Growth • Purpose • Impact When Jazmin Diaz founded Flourish Learning & Development, she transformed a lifetime of personal resilience, professional achievement, and leadership experience into a mission dedicated to helping others grow with intention, confidence,...

HL | Milestone Series – Honors Paleta Planeta

Family • Vision • Impact Some businesses begin with a business plan. Others begin with family. For brothers Luis Salazar, Mauricio Salazar, and Gabriel Salazar, the journey that would become Paleta Planeta started during one of the most uncertain periods in recent...

HL | Milestone Series – Honors Hilda Ramirez

Leadership • Opportunity • Impact For Hilda Ramirez, leadership has never been defined solely by transactions or titles. It has been measured by the opportunities she creates for others, the professionals she mentors, and the families she helps move closer to...

HL | Milestone Series – Honors Rocio Medina van Nierop

Purpose • Influence • Courage When Rocio Medina van Nierop co-founded Latinas in Tech in 2014, she set out to create opportunities for Latina professionals in an industry where representation at leadership levels remained limited. What began as a vision to support and...

HL | Milestone Series – Honors OSI Engineering

Leadership, Innovation & Community Impact Some companies are built to generate revenue. Others are built to create opportunity. OSI Engineering has accomplished both. In Silicon Valley, success is often measured by innovation, growth, and market influence. Yet the...

HL | Milestone Series – Honors Gloria Mirazo Gregor

Leadership, Influence & Legacy Throughout her career, Gloria Mirazo Gregor has helped families achieve one of life's most important milestones homeownership. As a respected mortgage banking executive and community leader, her influence extends beyond lending,...

HL | Milestone Series – Honors Dr. Marilyn Flores 

Breaking Barriers. Expanding Opportunity. Transforming Lives. When Dr. Marilyn Flores was appointed President of San José City College, she became the first Latina president in the institution's more than 100-year history a milestone that reflects decades of...

HL | Milestone Series – Honors Julian Cañete

Culture • Influence • Legacy Some leaders advocate for business. Others dedicate their careers to creating opportunities that allow businesses, entrepreneurs, and communities to thrive. Julian Cañete has spent more than two decades doing exactly that. As President and...

Milestone Series

Milestone Series

A curated reception, leadership forum, and awards experience designed to recognize those shaping business, community, and culture.

A Curated Reception

Each Milestone Series event begins with a private, curated reception that brings together a select group of professionals, decision-makers, and community leaders.

This is a space designed for intentional connection where conversations are meaningful, relationships are strengthened, and the people in the room reflect a shared commitment to leadership and progress.

A Leadership Forum with Market Insights

At the core of the experience is a leadership forum focused on timely conversations shaping today’s business and community landscape.

Discussions may include:

  • Generational wealth and economic opportunity
  • Real estate and housing market insights
  • Business leadership and growth strategies
  • Community influence and long-term impact
  • Regional trends unique to each host market

These conversations are designed to provide perspective, clarity, and insight connecting ideas with real world experience.

THE EXPERIENCE

A curated, invitation-only reception

A leadership forum featuring market-relevant insights

Recognition of selected honorees

An elevated setting designed for meaningful engagement

FUNDING PARTNER

Wells Fargo Logo

HL | Culture & Influence is proud to announce Wells Fargo as a Funding Partner of the HL | Milestone Series “an invitation-only” leadership experience recognizing individuals and organizations shaping business, community, and culture.

As part of this collaboration, Wells Fargo will support the Milestone Series across three key markets in 2026: Orange County, New York, and Silicon Valley.

“We are proud to collaborate with Wells Fargo as a Funding Partner of the Milestone Series,” said Richard Sandoval, Storyteller | Producer | Connector, HL | Culture & Influence. “Their support allows us to elevate conversations, recognize leadership, and create spaces where relationships and ideas can move forward with purpose.”

Upcoming Events

HONOREES

Milestone | Judith Valles

HL | Milestone SeriesFor generations, Mayor Judith Valles represented the very best in public service. As an educator, trailblazer, and the first Hispanic elected Mayor of the City of San Bernardino, she dedicated her life to expanding opportunities for others while...

A Question Worth Asking

HL | Milestone SeriesHow a conversation between a high school student and artist Carlos Pérez became one of the most memorable moments of the HL | Milestone Series in Silicon Valley.Photos and article by Richard SandovalArtist and designer Carlos Pérez with Nicholas...

HL | Milestone Series – Honors Jazmin Diaz

Growth • Purpose • Impact When Jazmin Diaz founded Flourish Learning & Development, she transformed a lifetime of personal resilience, professional achievement, and leadership experience into a mission dedicated to helping others grow with intention, confidence,...

HL | Milestone Series – Honors Paleta Planeta

Family • Vision • Impact Some businesses begin with a business plan. Others begin with family. For brothers Luis Salazar, Mauricio Salazar, and Gabriel Salazar, the journey that would become Paleta Planeta started during one of the most uncertain periods in recent...

HL | Milestone Series – Honors Hilda Ramirez

Leadership • Opportunity • Impact For Hilda Ramirez, leadership has never been defined solely by transactions or titles. It has been measured by the opportunities she creates for others, the professionals she mentors, and the families she helps move closer to...

HL | Milestone Series – Honors Rocio Medina van Nierop

Purpose • Influence • Courage When Rocio Medina van Nierop co-founded Latinas in Tech in 2014, she set out to create opportunities for Latina professionals in an industry where representation at leadership levels remained limited. What began as a vision to support and...

HL | Milestone Series – Honors OSI Engineering

Leadership, Innovation & Community Impact Some companies are built to generate revenue. Others are built to create opportunity. OSI Engineering has accomplished both. In Silicon Valley, success is often measured by innovation, growth, and market influence. Yet the...

HL | Milestone Series – Honors Gloria Mirazo Gregor

Leadership, Influence & Legacy Throughout her career, Gloria Mirazo Gregor has helped families achieve one of life's most important milestones homeownership. As a respected mortgage banking executive and community leader, her influence extends beyond lending,...

HL | Milestone Series – Honors Dr. Marilyn Flores 

Breaking Barriers. Expanding Opportunity. Transforming Lives. When Dr. Marilyn Flores was appointed President of San José City College, she became the first Latina president in the institution's more than 100-year history a milestone that reflects decades of...

HL | Milestone Series – Honors Julian Cañete

Culture • Influence • Legacy Some leaders advocate for business. Others dedicate their careers to creating opportunities that allow businesses, entrepreneurs, and communities to thrive. Julian Cañete has spent more than two decades doing exactly that. As President and...

Cal Poly Pomona Names Vanya Quiñones as University President

Cal Poly Pomona Names Vanya Quiñones as University President

Cal Poly Pomona Names Vanya Quiñones as University President

by Richard Sandoval, for HL and Inland Valley Living

Women’s History Month Reflection

Veteran educator and scientist becomes the first Latina to lead the institution

The California State University Board of Trustees has appointed Dr. Vanya Quiñones as the next president of California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, marking a historic milestone for the university and the broader California State University system.

Quiñones, who currently serves as president of California State University, Monterey Bay, will assume the role on July 1, 2026, becoming the eighth president of Cal Poly Pomona and the first Latina to lead the institution.

Quiñones’ 30-year career in education as a scientist, researcher and academic administrator has been centered in student success and diversity in the arts and sciences.

Her appointment comes at a time when the university continues to expand its role as one of Southern California’s leading institutions for applied learning, innovation, and workforce development.

“I am profoundly honored to be chosen to lead Cal Poly Pomona, become part of its long and impressive history and contribute to its future vision,” Quiñones said. “I am drawn to Cal Poly Pomona’s strong focus on measuring success by the opportunities it creates and the impact it has on students, families and the surrounding community.”

Quiñones emphasized her commitment to working closely with faculty, students, and community partners to advance the university’s mission.

“I welcome the opportunity to work in partnership with the campus community to support the continued success of the institution and advance its mission for years to come,” she said.

A Record of Leadership and Growth

CSU leadership highlighted Quiñones’ strategic leadership and results-driven approach to higher education.

“Dr. Quiñones is an innovative and data-driven decision maker who aligns institutional priorities with student needs to support immediate progress and long-term stability,” said Diego Arambula, vice chair of the CSU Board of Trustees and chair of the Cal Poly Pomona Presidential Search Committee.

“Under her leadership at Cal State Monterey Bay, the university has thrived, and the committee is confident that her record of success will continue in service to Cal Poly Pomona.”

Since becoming president of Cal State Monterey Bay in 2022, Quiñones has led the university through a period of renewed momentum. During her tenure, the institution experienced nearly 30 percent enrollment growth, reversing several years of declining student numbers.

Her leadership has emphasized expanding experiential learning opportunities, strengthening student mentorship programs, and creating clearer academic pathways for students. The university has also improved its financial outlook while increasing research funding and philanthropic support.

A Career Dedicated to Student Success

Quiñones brings more than three decades of experience in higher education, including roles as a scientist, researcher, and academic leader focused on advancing student success in the arts and sciences.

Before joining the CSU system, she served as provost and executive vice president for Academic Affairs at Pace University in New York, where she oversaw academic programs, student academic services, and information technology while also holding the rank of full professor of psychology.

Earlier in her career, Quiñones spent 21 years at the City University of New York’s Hunter College, where she rose through the ranks from assistant professor to department chair in psychology before becoming associate provost for Student Success and Retention.

During her time at CUNY, she secured more than $25 million in funding from the National Institutes of Health, private foundations, and the U.S. Department of Education. Much of the funding supported research and academic initiatives focused on expanding opportunities for a wide range of students pursuing careers in science and research.

A Scientist and Pioneer in Research

Beyond her leadership in higher education, Quiñones is a respected scientist and scholar.

A neurobiologist and biopsychologist, she has published more than 70 peer-reviewed research papers and was among the early researchers whose work helped identify gender differences in the brain, contributing to a shift in how scientists approached neurological and behavioral research.

Her academic background includes:

  • Bachelor of Science in Biology – University of Puerto Rico
  • Master of Science in Cell Biology – University of Puerto Rico
  • Ph.D. in Neurobiology and Physiology – Rutgers University

Looking Ahead

As Cal Poly Pomona prepares for its next chapter, Quiñones’ leadership is expected to build on the university’s strong reputation for hands-on learning, community engagement, and preparing graduates for California’s evolving economy.

Her appointment also reflects the growing presence of Latina leadership within higher education  an important milestone for one of the nation’s most diverse public university systems.

More Stories

Latinas Shaping the Future of Perris, CA

Latinas Shaping the Future of Perris, CA

Latinas Shaping the Future of Perris, CA

by Richard Sandoval, for HL and Inland Valley Living

Women’s History Month Reflection

Sometimes the most meaningful stories begin with a simple decision to step away from routine.

During Women’s History Month, a visit to a morning gathering hosted by the Perris Valley Chamber of Commerce offered a reminder of how leadership and economic development are increasingly connected to the rise of Latina professionals shaping their industries.

The event featured remarks from 2023 HL Latina of Influence Vanessa Delgado, who spoke about progress on the Harvest Landing development project in Perris.

Business and community leaders gather during a Perris Valley Chamber of Commerce event highlighting regional development and leadership during Women’s History Month in Perris, California. From left to right: Laura Vazquez, Realtor; Violeta Aguilar-Wyrick, Founder of XARA Public Affairs; Vanessa Delgado, President of Azure Development; Maria Rosales of Taqueria 2 Potrillos; and Adriana Ochoa, Executive Director of the Perris Valley Chamber of Commerce.

The proposed project is significant in both scale and potential impact. Planned as a 358-acre retail center and business park, Harvest Landing represents one of the largest economic development efforts currently under consideration in the region. Projects of this magnitude have the potential to bring new businesses, jobs, and long-term economic growth to the community.

Vanessa Delgado President, Azure Development

During her remarks, Delgado shared a personal perspective that resonated with many in the room: she is among the small number of Latina developers in California working on projects of this scale.

Her comments prompted a deeper look into the broader landscape of women in the construction and development industries. A growing number of Latina professionals from engineers and architects to project managers and developers are entering fields historically dominated by men and contributing to major infrastructure and real estate projects across the country.

Just as noteworthy was the audience gathered that morning.

Among those attending were community leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals representing the evolving leadership landscape of the Inland region. Conversations in the room included a Latina candidate running for a judicial seat in Riverside County, a new small business owner who recently launched an ice cream shop, and chamber members working to support business growth throughout the Perris Valley.

Moments like these illustrate the importance of local chambers of commerce as gathering spaces where ideas, relationships, and opportunities intersect.

And during Women’s History Month, it serves as an important reminder that Latinas are increasingly visible in industries helping shape the economic and physical future of communities across California.

For those paying attention, the takeaway is simple.

Sometimes the best insights about leadership and economic growth come not from formal reports or boardrooms, but from stepping into a room where community members are actively building the future together.

***

Editorial Note

HL will continue exploring the growing presence of Latina professionals in construction and development as part of an upcoming segment in our series “The Business of Surviving to Thrive.” The feature will spotlight women working across construction, engineering, real estate development, and infrastructure who are helping shape the next generation of projects in the United States.

More Stories