My ALPFA Story Valerie

I encourage others to spread the word about ALPFA as an organization that continuously provides and offers many life-changing opportunities to so many individuals.

My ALPFA story started back in 2003 when I recently joined the ALPFA student chapter at the University of New Mexico. I had applied for the HCF/ALPFA scholarship and much to my surprise, was awarded one of the scholarships and a paid registration to the 2003 ALPFA Annual Convention held in Albuquerque. I was certainly not looking to join an organization to fill my free time as I was a new young mother to my precious son and was occupied with my undergraduate studies. However, I will be forever thankful that I was introduced to ALPFA.

After attending the Albuquerque convention, I was amazed by the opportunities available to students as well as professionals. The networking, the workshops the people! I can honestly say that to me, ALPFA is much more than a distinguished Latino professional organization, it’s a family of people who care and are passionate about not only enhancing opportunity for Latinos, but also encouraging others to become more aware of the importance of diversity and inclusion in our society. Because of ALPFA, I have a greater appreciation of the term “diversity” and I believe that it is a very important issue that many corporate organizations are facing today. I strongly believe that not everyone has to be the same to make an organization successful; however we must understand the beauty of one’s culture and embrace each others differences. Diversity is a multi-faceted effort that must be addressed at all levels in our education and/or career and I am confident that ALPFA has a strategic plan to continue educating and growing Latino individuals on how to make the best of their careers.

One of the most important things about ALPFA that impresses me is the team atmosphere. I was provided with an opportunity while I was in school and feel that it is important to give back and encourage young adults to get involved and learn what a career in accounting, finance and other related fields has to offer. I applaud all current and past ALPFA National members as they are tremendous leaders and inspire me in my career daily. I have grown so much through this organization. As President of the Albuquerque Chapter I have the joy of watching other lives changed as well. This organization is truly about helping others and I love that.