Hispanic Heritage Foundation CEO Addresses San Miguel Students

José Antonio Tijerino, CEO of the Hispanic Heritage Foundation, encouraged San Miguel students on September 28 for the work they are doing every day to chart a path of success for those that will follow in their footsteps.

“It’s important that through getting an education, through having a virtuous life, through having a productive life, you’re able to set a course for the next generation that’s coming up…This journey that you’ve been on, you have a perspective that somebody’s going to need to hear.”

As Tijerino fielded questions from students, he discussed the value of understanding one’s identity, and he encouraged students to use their voices. “No matter what you do, you’re going to have value that you’re going to present and a perspective that someone’s going to need.”

Tijerino’s insight resonated with many students. One eighth grade student in particular shared, “He measures [success] through his service to the community in his position in the Hispanic Heritage Foundation. From this, I can measure my own success through my good works and my service that I perform here at San Miguel.” 

Tijerino has served as President and CEO of the Hispanic Heritage Foundation for more than twenty years, an organization that “identifies, inspires, prepares, and connects Latino Leaders in the community, classroom, and workforce.” Under his leadership, the organization has been recognized by the White House, US Congress, the Government of Mexico, and multiple Fortune 500 companies and non-profit organizations. Tijerino also produces the Hispanic Heritage Awards at the Kennedy Center each year.