CELEBRATING HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH
Eduardo J. Quiñones Novak Druce Connolly Bove + Quigg LLP HEADQUARTERS: Houston, Texas WEBSITE: www.novakdruce.com BUSINESS: Law firm EMPLOYEES: 262 Title: Counsel Education: BS, BS, Vanderbilt University; MS, PhD, University of Texas; JD, University of Florida
Last Book I Read: A More Perfect Heaven: How Copernicus Revolutionized the Cosmos, by Dava Sobel
My Perfect Day: A quiet day at home sitting in the garden with my family while reading the news or a good book
Interests: Computers and electron-
How do you see Hispanics moving forward in years to come? I see Hispanics as no longer being considered a minority that stands apart from other groups. Rather, Hispanics will be an integral part, at all levels, of communities around the country. What does it mean to be a part of the fastest growing minority in the U.S.? Growing up I always felt I was the outsider in many communities. Now, with so many Hispanics in my community and elsewhere, that feeling is completely gone. Now I see myself and my family as an important part of the greater whole. Are there any stereotypes of Hispanics/Latinos that should be refuted or are incorrect? People should know that with respect to careers, family, taste in music, books, and food, we are as diverse as can be. For example, my dad loves traditional Latin American music, my uncle loves opera, and my brother loves heavy metal. You can’t be more diverse than that. What advice would you give the next generation of Hispanic business leaders? What are some tips for other Hispanics beginning their careers? Hispanics, whether leaders or just beginning a career, should remember that being Hispanic should never be used as an excuse, but as an attribute. The values of hard work and family we all share must be carried over into our careers and lives. Ultimately, if you want equality and respect, it is better to be a success who is Hispanic, rather than someone who is a success only because he is Hispanic.
ics, science fiction, and history
Alejandro Quiroz Whirlpool Corporation What does it mean to be a part of the fastest growing minority in the U.S.? It is a phenomenal responsibility. As Hispanics, we will help shape a new America within the next few decades. We need to improve our understanding of the global economy. Higher education and ethical behavior in the workplace provide a foundation for this understanding. It is essential to build a strong reputation and establish consistent credibility. How does being Hispanic shape your identity? We must ensure that we maintain our Hispanic identity. Too often young Hispanics assume they must shed this identity to acculturate to the leadership norms of our society. Embracing exactly who we are and then leveraging it for everyone’s benefit is key to a shared success. What advice would you give the next generation of Hispanic business leaders? What are some tips for other Hispanics beginning their careers? I would recommend the next generation of Hispanic business leaders work outside of our continent as early as possible in their careers. America’s economy needs leaders who understand the dynamics of the global markets, and therefore taking an international assignment in Asia or Europe while learning another language will prove greatly advantageous.
HEADQUARTERS: Benton Harbor, Michigan
WEBSITE: www.whirlpoolcorp.com BUSINESS: Home appliances REVENUES: $19 billion EMPLOYEES: 67,000 title: Vice President, Global Advanced Manufacturing
Education: BS, Universidad de las Américas Puebla, San Andrés Cholula, Mexico; MBA, University of Michigan
Last Book I REad: The Corporate Athlete Advantage: The Science of Deepening Engagement by Jim Loehr My Perfect Day: Family time filled with action and conversations at a ski resort
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PROFILES IN DIVERSITY JOURNAL
September/October 2013