TAMPA — Committed to transforming lives through education, leadership, and mentorship, the Hispanic Professional Women’s Association officially began a new administrative term on July 1 — running through June 30, 2027 — led by a board of directors composed of women leaders from diverse professional sectors.
The nonprofit organization, founded in 1990 by a group of Hispanic professional women in Tampa, has established itself over more than three decades as a key support platform for first-generation college-bound Latinas, thanks to its mentorship, professional development, and academic scholarship programs.
Upon assuming the new term, HPWA President Brenda Báez Costa said the organization is beginning this phase with a strengthened team ready to expand the impact achieved in recent years.
“The new board of directors for the 2026–2027 term is an outstanding team of successful women from various professions, all sharing a single purpose: to serve Hispanic women. We are bringing new programs and many initiatives to continue growing,” she said.
Báez Costa explained that the board members are not chosen by chance; the organization promotes a selection process based on demonstrated commitment to the institutional mission.
“Generally, they are women who already participate actively in our events or have served as mentors,” she said. “They are then invited to apply; we evaluate each profile alongside the outgoing board and determine who will assume leadership roles. Some members may also continue if they wish.”
Strengthening mentorship and reaching more students
One of the main objectives for this new term will be to expand the reach of the educational programs that have defined HPWA since its inception.
“Our mentorship program is well-established and serves as one of the organization’s pillars. Now, we want to make an impact on many more Hispanic women who are pursuing their education and need financial support to start or complete their university degrees,” she said.
Báez Costa also called on the community to help spread the word about the organization’s work.
“Many young women still aren’t aware that these resources exist. We want families to share this information with their daughters, nieces, neighbors, or friends. Here, they will find professional women ready to guide and support them in their academic and personal growth.”
A leadership transition already underway
During the ceremony, Paula Sofía Gómez was also officially introduced as the president-elect for the 2027–28 term — a role she will assume once Báez Costa’s tenure concludes.
Although her presidency begins in a year, Gómez is already working alongside the current board to develop the strategic plan that will chart the organization’s course.
“We have been holding meetings from the very beginning to define our action plan. We want the entire board to be aligned because we are a team here to work and deliver results. What I am most passionate about regarding this organization is that it truly transforms lives,” she said.
Gómez shared that her decision to accept the challenge stemmed from years of active participation in HPWA and the experience she gained collaborating with business organizations in the region.
“I felt I could contribute much more. Education and the empowerment of Latina women are among my deepest convictions. When I realized that this position would allow me to help create more opportunities, I decided to take on the commitment.”
The president-elect believes that one of the major challenges will be increasing HPWA’s visibility both within and outside the Hispanic community. “The media are key allies in sharing the story of what we do. We must also strengthen partnerships with community organizations, corporations, foundations, and higher education institutions to reach many more women, regardless of their background.”
Inspiring leadership
Dr. Oemil Rodríguez, who transitioned from being a mentor to joining the new board of directors, believes that HPWA’s greatest asset is its members’ dedication to service.
“It is an honor to take on this new responsibility. Serving as a mentor allowed me to see firsthand the impact the organization has on the lives of many young women. Now, from the board of directors, I want to continue creating opportunities for more students to pursue a professional career.”
Rodríguez maintains that the organization’s growth will depend on maintaining accessible and authentic leadership.
“When people perceive a genuine attitude of service, that energy becomes contagious. That is how we will get more women interested in learning about HPWA and becoming part of this mission.”
With this new chapter, the Hispanic Professional Women’s Association reaffirms its commitment to continuing to develop female leaders, strengthening access to education, and building support networks that enable more Hispanic women to reach their full potential in the Tampa Bay area.
More than three decades after its founding, the organization remains true to the mission that inspired its creators: opening doors so that new generations of Latina women can find opportunities for professional growth, leadership, and community service.