By Mariella Godinez 

Milwaukee, Wis. — Hispanic Professionals of Greater Milwaukee held its annual meeting last Friday, August 14. The winners of the 2020 Leadership were honored at the event along with HPGM’s scholarship recipients. This year, more than 30 outstanding students received scholarships. Like other Milwaukee-area nonprofit organizations, HPGM has made adjustments to the event due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The event was held virtually and included a panel discussion with award winners titled “A Year of Change: Conversations with Milwaukee’s Diverse Leaders.”

The HPGM Leadership Awards recognize students, local leaders and organizations who exhibit innovation, passion, and achievement in their careers, while also serving as role models and giving back to the community.

The 2020 Leadership Award winners are: 

· Distinguished Leader – Irissol Arce, Senior Director of Diversity & Inclusion, Northwestern Mutual

· Community Leader – Ian Bautista, Senior Director of Civic Engagement, Greater Milwaukee Foundation

· Rising Leader – Fabiola Ramirez, Assistant Principal, Carmen Middle School

· HPGM Ally – Peggy Williams-Smith, President & CEO, VISIT Milwaukee

· Student Leader – Karla Loera, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee

· Partner Organization – Alverno College

HPGM has awarded advanced degree scholarships since 2004, adding an undergraduate in 2016 and 2-Year degree in 2019. Their goal is to improve retention and graduation rates for the increasing number of Hispanics pursuing higher education. To date, HPGM has awarded $661.500 to 173 students.  The 2020 Leadership Award recipients were formally recognized at HPGM’s Annual Meeting, and winners participated in a panel discussion.

“As the Milwaukee professional community has larger conversations around diversity and inclusion in the workforce, it’s important to recognize those who exemplify HPGM’s vision of cultivating Hispanic talent in our region,” said Kim Schultz. “We are proud to honor these 2020 Leadership Award winners who exhibit true passion and commitment to building strong communities and a more equitable future for our young leaders.”

Saying that, save the date because and Join HPGM for a Virtual Gala “A Dia de los Muertos Celebration” on Friday October 30. For more information about this and other events, Visit the HPGM website to register: www.hpgm.org