CELEBRACIÓN DEL MES DE LA HERENCIA HISPANA
Hispanic
Heritage Month Celebrating the Successes of Today’s Hispanic/Latino Leaders and Executives
H
ispanic Heritage Month begins September 15, the anniversary of independence for five Latin American countries—Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua—that all declared independence in 1821. Today, more than 50 million people in the United States identify themselves as Hispanic or Latino.
With key input in the last presidential election and increased buying power, Hispanic/Latinos are now the largest minority group in the United States and arguably the most dynamic. We asked a selection of today’s Hispanic/Latino leaders and executives to elaborate on their identities and experiences as Hispanics/Latinos in America. The following are personal glimpses into these leaders’ lives, both personally and professionally.
Patricia Abrego-Santucci OfficeMax HEADQUARTERS: Naperville, Illinois WEBSITE: www.officemax.com BUSINESS: Products, solutions and services for the workplace
REVENUES: $6.8 billion EMPLOYEES: 29,000 Title: VP, Compensation Education: BS, Northwestern University; MBA, Loyola University; Northwestern Women’s Senior Leadership Program
Last Book I Read: One Hundred Years of Solitude, by Gabriel Garcia Marquez
My Perfect Day: Starts with a cup of coffee sitting in my favorite chair watching the raindrops in the garden, followed by an entire day at home with my daughter.
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How has your heritage been beneficial or helpful in your career and/or business relationships? From a practical standpoint, being bilingual allows me opportunity to work on projects I may not otherwise have access to. In general, I began my career in the 1980s when women, and especially Hispanic women, were breaking new ground in the workplace. I brought both perspectives to my work. These perspectives helped me approach problem solving and team building in a way that was often different than my male peers. That experience molded me into a leader who brings a more well-rounded view to challenges. What are the major values of your heritage? How have they helped you in your career? Stereotypes will continue and are always difficult to refute. I recall an incident that remains very clear in my mind, although it happened about twenty years ago. I was asked to use the service entrance as I entered the elevator to my condo in Chicago. I had bought a new broom and my neighbor assumed I was the cleaning lady. What advice would you give the next generation of Hispanic business leaders? What are some tips for other Hispanics beginning their careers? Work hard, always be true to yourself, and never forget what it took to get to where you are. Volunteer for special projects and community involvement, be patient, and build your success with integrity. As you begin your career, have a passion for everything you do and be available to mentor others. Know that every experience, good and bad, will teach you and can inspire you to the next level of success.
PROFILES IN DIVERSITY JOURNAL
September/October 2013