It is with great honor and pride that I begin my tenure as the new Executive  

  Director of the Latino Coalition for a Healthy California.  Having been part of the

  political scene in Sacramento for the past twelve years- in many different roles- I

  have had the opportunity to watch LCHC grow and become an important voice in the health care arena.  The capacity and reputation of LCHC in the corridors of the state capitol and the Governor’s cabinet is unblemished.

As Latinos who will soon become the majority of the state, we have taken the mantle of leadership in various quarters.  This is a responsibility that I take seriously.  It is a momentous time to be a leader in Latino health, in California, given the opportunities that are brewing after healthcare reform efforts, and the chance to catapult our agenda onto the national level.  The present challenge is to exercise that leadership for the health of all Californians and improve the health status of our communities.

I invite you to join our efforts and make your mark for social change, which in the end, is all about improving the quality of life of our people and affording a real opportunity to thrive and inspire future generations.  Please do not hesitate to contact my staff should you have any questions.