Latine High School Leadership Conference
Conference 2027 Is Coming Soon!
Friday, February 26, 2027
The Latine High School Leadership Conference seeks to inspire, inform, and prepare Latine high school students to pursue their post-secondary educational goals. The conference includes motivational keynote speakers, informative and relevant workshops, and a resourceful college and career resource fair. High school juniors and seniors in high schools in Linn and Benton counties are strongly encouraged to attend. Schools may also consider inviting sophomores and freshmen. The conference welcomes all students interested in attending a Latine-focused leadership conference.
For additional conference information, email engagementcenter@linnbenton.edu.
Check Out Previous Years
Our Voice, Our Future / Nuestra Voz, Nuestro Futuro
Friday, April 24, 2026
Keynote Speaker: Pedro Villagran
Pedro Villagran is a senior operations executive, leadership speaker, and community
advocate dedicated to developing the next generation of leaders through purpose-driven
leadership, resilience, and authentic growth. With more than 20 years of experience
leading global customer experience and operations organizations, Pedro currently serves
as Senior Director of Operations at Kelly Education, where he oversees large virtual
teams, strategic partnerships, and performance programs supporting thousands of educators
and school districts nationwide.
Born into poverty to undocumented parents and raised in challenging environments, Pedro鈥檚 journey to executive leadership reflects perseverance, determination, and a deep commitment to personal growth. He began his career in an entry-level role and advanced to executive leadership by building high-performing teams, driving operational excellence, and developing leaders across diverse organizations and cultures.
Pedro is a passionate advocate for leadership development and representation. He regularly delivers keynote speeches and workshops that encourage students and professionals to recognize their potential, embrace their identity, and build confidence as leaders in their communities and future careers. His message centers on the belief that leadership is shaped by experience, mindset, and the willingness to create positive impact.
Beyond his corporate career, Pedro serves as Board President of PODER Action Alliance, a political action committee focused on strengthening Latino civic engagement and leadership in Oregon. He is deeply committed to mentorship, community empowerment, and expanding opportunities for emerging leaders.
Pedro lives in Oregon with his family and is dedicated to inspiring young people to
see their background as a foundation for future success.
United in Strength and Hope / Unidos en Fuerza y Esperanza
Friday, April 25, 2025
Keynote Speaker: Teresa Alonso Le贸n
Teresa Alonso Le贸n is the Founder and President of Parakata Consulting LLC, focusing
on leadership, professional, and educational development with expertise in program
development. A former Oregon House Representative for the 22nd District (2017-2023),
she made history as the first indigenous Latina immigrant to serve in the Oregon Legislature.
Teresa holds a bachelor鈥檚 degree from Western Oregon University and a master鈥檚 in
public administration from Portland State University. As a legislator, she was the
first Latina Chair of the House Education Committee and advocated for policies such
as the Oregon Driver鈥檚 License, Family Paid Leave, healthcare equity, and expanded
educational opportunities. She was recognized as Legislator of the Year by the National
Hispanic Caucus of Latino Legislators in 2022. Her legacy includes passing significant
equity-focused policies in education and healthcare. Through her consulting business,
Teresa continues her work to support leadership and professional development across
sectors.
Rise and Lead with Authenticity / Elevate y Liderea con Authenticidad
Friday, May 3, 2024
