2024 LULAC National Convention & Exposition

Attending this event?

2024 LULAC National Convention & Exposition

9:00am PDT

FTI Opening Ceremony

Federal Employees, Officers and Dignitaries will participate in the grand opening ceremony of the FTI which highlights the significance of this organization in advancing continued education of federal professionals.

Moderators

Al Gallegos

President, NAHFE

Mr. Al Gallegos is a native of California, a graduate of San Diego State University and holds a bachelor’s degree in public administration. He was a certified Network Engineer and Instructor. In San Diego he worked for several agencies within the Department of the Navy.NON-PROFITS:NAHFE... Read More →

Speakers

Carmen Garcia

Deputy HR Director & Deputy Chief Human Capital Officer, OPM

Carmen Garcia was appointed Deputy HR Director & Deputy Chief Human Capital Officer for the U.S. Office of Personnel Management in July 2021. In this role, Ms. Garcia assists the Chief Human Capital Officer in shaping corporate human resources strategy, policy, and solutions to workforce... Read More →

Dr. Javier E. Inclán

Assistant Inspector General for Management and Chief Information Officer, NSF OIG

Javier E. Inclán joined the National Science Foundation Office of Inspector General as the Assistant Inspector General for Management and Chief Information Officer in May 2022. In this role, Dr. Inclán has responsibility for the OIG’s budget planning and execution; human capital... Read More →

Marianne Malizia

Deputy Assistant Secretary (Force Resilience) & Chief Diversity Officer, USAF

Marianne Malizia, a member of the Senior Executive Service, is the Deputy Assistant Secretary, Office of Force Resilience, and the Chief Diversity Officer for the U.S. Air Force. In this role, Ms. Malizia is responsible for planning, establishing, and implementing policy for activities... Read More →

Lilian Sotolongo Dorka

Journalist, publicist and nonprofit strategist.

Lilian joined EPA’s Office of Land and Emergency Management (OLEM) in April 2024, as Senior Advisor for Environmental Justice and External Civil Rights. In this role, she works with OLEM components to identify and implement opportunities to integrate environmental justice and external... Read More →

Wednesday June 26, 2024 9:00am - 10:00am PDT
Neopolitan 1

11:00am PDT

FTI Spotlight - Maintaining an Inclusive Culture by Promoting DEI in the Workplace

This panel will delve into the practical strategies and best practices to maintain an inclusive workplace environment that embraces DEI. Led by seasoned professionals who are committed to building inclusive cultures that drive innovation, collaboration, and employee engagement, this workshop is a must-attend for federal professionals.

ECQ competencies covered: Leading People-leveraging Diversity/Business Acumen-Human Capital Management/Building Coalitions-Partnering, Influencing

Moderators

Dr. Marirosa Molina

Research Microbiologist with the Office of Research and Development, Center for Environmental Measurement and Modeling

Dr. Marirosa Molina is a Research Microbiologist with the Office of Research and Development, Center for Environmental Measurement and Modeling. Dr. Molina has a BS in Biology (Microbiology) from the University of Puerto Rico-Mayagüez, a MS in Microbiology and a PhD in Ecology from... Read More →

Speakers

Cynthia D. Dunn

Director, Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, Internal Revenue Service

Cynthia “Cin-dee” D. Dunn currently serves as the Director for the Internal Revenue Service, Tax Exempt and Government Entities, Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion. Cin-dee has held this position in Washington, DC since 2004. She started her federal government career in... Read More →

Dr. James Mcdonald

Senior Executive Service Advisor for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion And Accesibillity, EPA

Dr. James McDonald currently serves as the Senior Executive Senior Advisor for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility for the Office of the Regional Administrator at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 6. Prior this role, he served as the Assistant Regional Administrator... Read More →

Wednesday June 26, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Neopolitan 1

11:00am PDT

FTI Spotlight - Senior Executive Service Overview

The successful delivery of our Nation’s Federal Government services relies on a healthy and vibrant Senior Executive (SES) corps. Come and learn first-hand about the SES and why considering joining the SES could be one of the most exciting career-moves you’ve ever made.
Get a brief history of this unique system and the "why" it was established. Understand the differences between the SES Corps and its composition/culture/benefits/challenges.
Learn from a former or current SES about the challenges and career strategies. Come and ask your “burning” questions from someone who has successfully mentored dozens of candidates into the SES.

ECQ competencies covered: Leading Change/Leading People/Results Driven/Business Acumen/Building Coaltions

Moderators

Alejandra Hernandez

Senior Federal Investigator, DoDIG

Alejandra Hernandez is a first-generation Mexican American who was raised in the inner city of Chicago, Illinois. She enlisted into the delayed entry program at 17 years old; and shortly after graduating Curie high school in 2004, she left to begin her journey in the Marine Corps... Read More →

Speakers

Marguerite C. Garrison

Deputy Inspector General for Administrative Investigations, DoDIG

Ms. Marguerite C. Garrison became the Deputy Inspector General for Administrative Investigations and was appointed to the Senior Executive Service on July 18, 2011.Prior to accepting this position, Ms. Garrison was a career Army military police officer, retiring in the rank of Colonel... Read More →

Hong Miller

Chief Human Capital Officer (CHCO), Army Futures Command (AFC)

Ms. Hong Miller began serving as the Army Futures Command (AFC) Chief Human Capital Officer (CHCO) in December 2022. In this capacity, she is responsible for supporting the Commanding General, AFC with the synchronization, development and oversight of all things people including Civilian... Read More →

Wednesday June 26, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Neopolitan 2

1:30pm PDT

FTI Spotlight - Executive Core Competencies - ECQs

What are they? How do you gain them and write/speak about them? What factors are selection and OPM boards really looking for and how you do show you have what they are seeking? This presentation provides you with guidance when preparing your ECQs in a way that will help you stand out from a crowded field of candidates. This will begin with detailed guidance on what a package should contain. You’ll hear from current or former Senior Executives who have served on numerous selection panels and dozens of QRB sessions to depart with practical knowledge that you can apply immediately.

Moderators

Camille Weber

Recruitment & Outreach Coordinator, EPA

Camille is the Recruitment and Outreach Coordinator in Region 9’s Mission Support Division. She helps lead the Region’s recruitment efforts by establishing relationships with nationally identified Minority Serving Institutions and providing workshops on the federal hiring process... Read More →

Speakers

Mrs. Suzanne R. Torres

Chief, Programs and Management Division, Human Capital, U.S. Army Futures Command (AFC), Army Futures Command (AFC)

Mrs. Suzanne R. Torres serves as the Chief, Programs and Management Division, Human Capital, U.S. Army Futures Command (AFC). She is responsible for the development and management of the full HR spectrum of civilian programs. She is responsible for developing and implementing policy... Read More →

Dr. Javier E. Inclán

Assistant Inspector General for Management and Chief Information Officer, NSF OIG

Javier E. Inclán joined the National Science Foundation Office of Inspector General as the Assistant Inspector General for Management and Chief Information Officer in May 2022. In this role, Dr. Inclán has responsibility for the OIG’s budget planning and execution; human capital... Read More →

Wednesday June 26, 2024 1:30pm - 3:00pm PDT
Neopolitan 1

1:30pm PDT

FTI Spotlight - Trust In the Workplace

Trust is the foundation of all leadership and work environments. This presentation will examine trust from the concepts of the “Thin Book of Trust” by Charles Feldman. Learn what constitutes trusting teams and authentic leadership.

ECQ competencies covered: Leading People-Team Building-Conflict Resolution

Moderators

Melissa Lasanta-Edwards

Deputy Assistant Secretary (Force Resilience) & Chief Diversity Officer, USAF

Melissa is from the vibrant streets of New York City, but her early years were marked by constant movement as her military family traveled to different places, including Puerto Rico and the enchanting Canal Zone in Panama.After completing her BS in Human Services at Audrey Cohen College... Read More →

Speakers

Dr. Lyle J Hogue

Director, Army Strategic Outreach and Partnerships, USArmy

Dr. Lyle J. Hogue assumed duties as Director of Army Strategic Outreach and Partnerships on 1 November 2023. Prior to this role, Dr. Hogue served as the Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Army (Equity and Inclusion). In this new position, Dr. Hogue partners with Army organizations... Read More →

Dr. Lisa R. Ramírez

Director, USDA, Office of the Secretary, Office of Partnerships and Public Engagement

Dr. Lisa R. Ramírez currently serves as the Director of the Office of Partnerships and Public Engagement (OPPE) at the United States Department of Agriculture in Washington, DC. Dr. Ramírez recently served as the Chief Innovation Officer for Lubbock ISD. She relocated to Lubbock... Read More →

Wednesday June 26, 2024 1:30pm - 3:00pm PDT
Neopolitan 2

3:15pm PDT

FTI Spotlight - Emotional Intelligence and the Clear Connection of ECQs

How does Emotional Intelligence contribute to leadership and to career success? Explore the concepts and relationships to the competencies, and the ways to evaluate your current use of EI and using it for the ECQ development.

ECQ competencies covered: Leading People-Team Building-Leveraging Diversity /Results Driven-Accountability-Decisiveness/Leading Change-Flexibility-Resilience/Building Coalitions-Political Savvy-Influencing

Moderators

Nydia Yanira Reyes-Morales

Speakers

Blanca A. Sanchez

Director, Civilian Human Resources,Diversity & Leadership Directorate, USCG

Ms. Blanca A. Sanchez ia a member of the Senior Executive Service currently serving as a Director of the Civilian Human Resdources (HR), Diversity, and Leadership at the United States Coast Guard (USCG) Headquarters, in Washington DC. Ms. Sanchez is responsible for USCG's overall... Read More →

Wednesday June 26, 2024 3:15pm - 4:45pm PDT
Neopolitan 1

3:15pm PDT

FTI Spotlight - Execuitive Interview Strategies

This presentation provides you guidance when getting ready for the interview process. You’ll hear from a former or current SES who has served on multiple SES panels. Learn what to expect and how to orient your responses to your maximum advantage. You’ll learn more about how to share stories about yourself and defend why you are ready to be a member of the SES.

ECQ competencies covered: Leading Change/Leading People/Results Driven/Business Acumen/Building Coaltions

Moderators

Alejandra Hernandez

Senior Federal Investigator, DoDIG

Alejandra Hernandez is a first-generation Mexican American who was raised in the inner city of Chicago, Illinois. She enlisted into the delayed entry program at 17 years old; and shortly after graduating Curie high school in 2004, she left to begin her journey in the Marine Corps... Read More →

Speakers

Marguerite C. Garrison

Deputy Inspector General for Administrative Investigations, DoDIG

Ms. Marguerite C. Garrison became the Deputy Inspector General for Administrative Investigations and was appointed to the Senior Executive Service on July 18, 2011.Prior to accepting this position, Ms. Garrison was a career Army military police officer, retiring in the rank of Colonel... Read More →

Hong Miller

Chief Human Capital Officer (CHCO), Army Futures Command (AFC)

Ms. Hong Miller began serving as the Army Futures Command (AFC) Chief Human Capital Officer (CHCO) in December 2022. In this capacity, she is responsible for supporting the Commanding General, AFC with the synchronization, development and oversight of all things people including Civilian... Read More →

Dr. Corinna Balderramos Robinson

Nat'l Leadership Dev Director, NAHFE

Wednesday June 26, 2024 3:15pm - 4:45pm PDT
Neopolitan 2

9:15am PDT

FTI Spotlight - Resilience at time of stress and uncertainty

How are you managing during these uncertain times? Join us for an interactive overview of personal resilience concepts, strategies, and tools to help manage stress.
This is an opportunity to share some of the concerns and challenges we are all facing and learn how we can strengthen both personal and team resilience.
Take a Personal Resilience Inventory and follow a Daily Resilience Countdown. Learn ways to Rest Your Brain and build your resilience during times of stress and uncertainty.

Moderators

Melissa Lasanta-Edwards

Deputy Assistant Secretary (Force Resilience) & Chief Diversity Officer, USAF

Melissa is from the vibrant streets of New York City, but her early years were marked by constant movement as her military family traveled to different places, including Puerto Rico and the enchanting Canal Zone in Panama.After completing her BS in Human Services at Audrey Cohen College... Read More →

Speakers

Cynthia D. Dunn

Director, Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, Internal Revenue Service

Cynthia “Cin-dee” D. Dunn currently serves as the Director for the Internal Revenue Service, Tax Exempt and Government Entities, Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion. Cin-dee has held this position in Washington, DC since 2004. She started her federal government career in... Read More →

Blanca A. Sanchez

Director, Civilian Human Resources,Diversity & Leadership Directorate, USCG

Ms. Blanca A. Sanchez ia a member of the Senior Executive Service currently serving as a Director of the Civilian Human Resdources (HR), Diversity, and Leadership at the United States Coast Guard (USCG) Headquarters, in Washington DC. Ms. Sanchez is responsible for USCG's overall... Read More →

Thursday June 27, 2024 9:15am - 10:30am PDT
Neopolitan 1

9:15am PDT

FTI Spotlight - Senior Executive Service Overview

The successful delivery of our Nation’s Federal Government services relies on a healthy and vibrant Senior Executive (SES) corps. Come and learn first-hand about the SES and why considering joining the SES could be one of the most exciting career-moves you’ve ever made.
Get a brief history of this unique system and the "why" it was established. Understand the differences between the SES Corps and its composition/culture/benefits/challenges.
Learn from a former or current SES about the challenges and career strategies. Come and ask your “burning” questions from someone who has successfully mentored dozens of candidates into the SES.

ECQ competencies covered: Leading Change/Leading People/Results Driven/Business Acumen/Building Coaltions

Moderators

Sandra Rivera

Communications Branch Manager and EPA's Hispanic Employment Program Council Chair Office of Engagement & Program Management, EPA

Sandra Rivera is a diversity leader with 23+ years of experience in developing and managing various organizational programs from the development and implementation of business solutions to program strategies. She has industry experience with the Big 4 international professional services... Read More →

Speakers

Mrs. Suzanne R. Torres

Chief, Programs and Management Division, Human Capital, U.S. Army Futures Command (AFC), Army Futures Command (AFC)

Mrs. Suzanne R. Torres serves as the Chief, Programs and Management Division, Human Capital, U.S. Army Futures Command (AFC). She is responsible for the development and management of the full HR spectrum of civilian programs. She is responsible for developing and implementing policy... Read More →

Marguerite C. Garrison

Deputy Inspector General for Administrative Investigations, DoDIG

Ms. Marguerite C. Garrison became the Deputy Inspector General for Administrative Investigations and was appointed to the Senior Executive Service on July 18, 2011.Prior to accepting this position, Ms. Garrison was a career Army military police officer, retiring in the rank of Colonel... Read More →

Hong Miller

Chief Human Capital Officer (CHCO), Army Futures Command (AFC)

Ms. Hong Miller began serving as the Army Futures Command (AFC) Chief Human Capital Officer (CHCO) in December 2022. In this capacity, she is responsible for supporting the Commanding General, AFC with the synchronization, development and oversight of all things people including Civilian... Read More →

Thursday June 27, 2024 9:15am - 10:30am PDT
Neopolitan 2

10:45am PDT

FTI Spotlight - Executive Core Competencies - ECQs

What are they? How do you gain them and write/speak about them? What factors are selection and OPM boards really looking for and how you do show you have what they are seeking? This presentation provides you with guidance when preparing your ECQs in a way that will help you stand out from a crowded field of candidates. This will begin with detailed guidance on what a package should contain. You’ll hear from current or former Senior Executives who have served on numerous selection panels and dozens of QRB sessions to depart with practical knowledge that you can apply immediately.

Moderators

Dr. Marirosa Molina

Research Microbiologist with the Office of Research and Development, Center for Environmental Measurement and Modeling

Dr. Marirosa Molina is a Research Microbiologist with the Office of Research and Development, Center for Environmental Measurement and Modeling. Dr. Molina has a BS in Biology (Microbiology) from the University of Puerto Rico-Mayagüez, a MS in Microbiology and a PhD in Ecology from... Read More →

Speakers

Hong Miller

Chief Human Capital Officer (CHCO), Army Futures Command (AFC)

Ms. Hong Miller began serving as the Army Futures Command (AFC) Chief Human Capital Officer (CHCO) in December 2022. In this capacity, she is responsible for supporting the Commanding General, AFC with the synchronization, development and oversight of all things people including Civilian... Read More →

Dr. Beatriz Cuartas

DOE Senior Advisor for Workforce Engagement at the office of Energy Justice & Equity (EJE), Department of Energy

Dr. Cuartas is a public servant, social scientist, writer, speaker, volunteer, and mom. Currently, Beatriz serves as DOE Senior Advisor for Workforce Engagement at the office of Energy Justice & Equity (EJE). He role is to keep the workforce engaged (~ 175k employees that spans over... Read More →

Blanca A. Sanchez

Director, Civilian Human Resources,Diversity & Leadership Directorate, USCG

Ms. Blanca A. Sanchez ia a member of the Senior Executive Service currently serving as a Director of the Civilian Human Resdources (HR), Diversity, and Leadership at the United States Coast Guard (USCG) Headquarters, in Washington DC. Ms. Sanchez is responsible for USCG's overall... Read More →

Thursday June 27, 2024 10:45am - 12:00pm PDT
Neopolitan 2

10:45am PDT

FTI Spotlight - Trust In the Workplace

Trust is the foundation of all leadership and work environments. This presentation will examine trust from the concepts of the “Thin Book of Trust” by Charles Feldman. Learn what constitutes trusting teams and authentic leadership.

ECQ competencies covered - Leading People-Team Building-Conflict Resolution

Moderators

Maricela Garcia

Chief Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, USCG

CHIEF, DIVERSITY, EQUITY, & INCLUSION Mari Garcia is a results-driven thought leader with a stellar record developing, implementing, and evaluating diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) strategies that show the value of diverse and inclusive environments. She serves as the Chief... Read More →

Speakers

Blanca A. Sanchez

Director, Civilian Human Resources,Diversity & Leadership Directorate, USCG

Ms. Blanca A. Sanchez ia a member of the Senior Executive Service currently serving as a Director of the Civilian Human Resdources (HR), Diversity, and Leadership at the United States Coast Guard (USCG) Headquarters, in Washington DC. Ms. Sanchez is responsible for USCG's overall... Read More →

Thursday June 27, 2024 10:45am - 12:00pm PDT
Neopolitan 1

1:30pm PDT

FTI Spotlight - Emotional Intelligence and the Clear Connection of ECQs

How does Emotional Intelligence contribute to leadership and to career success? Explore the concepts and relationships to the competencies, and the ways to evaluate your current use of EI and using it for the ECQ development.

ECQ competencies covered: Leading People-Team Building-Leveraging Diversity /Results Driven-Accountability-Decisiveness/Leading Change-Flexibility-Resilience/Building Coalitions-Political Savvy-Influencing

Moderators

Nydia Yanira Reyes-Morales

Speakers

Cynthia D. Dunn

Director, Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, Internal Revenue Service

Cynthia “Cin-dee” D. Dunn currently serves as the Director for the Internal Revenue Service, Tax Exempt and Government Entities, Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion. Cin-dee has held this position in Washington, DC since 2004. She started her federal government career in... Read More →

Thursday June 27, 2024 1:30pm - 3:00pm PDT
Neopolitan 1

1:30pm PDT

FTI Spotlight - Speed Mentoring Session

You will have an opportunity to meet a group of SES members who will rotate among your tables to answer your questions and provide wisdom and insights into how to reach your career goals.

Moderators

Maricela Garcia

Chief Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, USCG

CHIEF, DIVERSITY, EQUITY, & INCLUSION Mari Garcia is a results-driven thought leader with a stellar record developing, implementing, and evaluating diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) strategies that show the value of diverse and inclusive environments. She serves as the Chief... Read More →

Speakers

Hong Miller

Chief Human Capital Officer (CHCO), Army Futures Command (AFC)

Ms. Hong Miller began serving as the Army Futures Command (AFC) Chief Human Capital Officer (CHCO) in December 2022. In this capacity, she is responsible for supporting the Commanding General, AFC with the synchronization, development and oversight of all things people including Civilian... Read More →

Dr. James Mcdonald

Senior Executive Service Advisor for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion And Accesibillity, EPA

Dr. James McDonald currently serves as the Senior Executive Senior Advisor for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility for the Office of the Regional Administrator at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 6. Prior this role, he served as the Assistant Regional Administrator... Read More →

Dr. Victoria Dixon

Director of, Equity and Inclusion EEO/EO Programs at Army Futures Command, DoD, U.S. Army

Dr. Victoria Dixon’s greatest thrill in life is helping someone else progress in theirs, whether it’s his or her professional or personal side. She feels moving up and out is a way of life and that the way to success is often through perseverance. She lives by the motto, "It's... Read More →

Cynthia D. Dunn

Director, Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, Internal Revenue Service

Cynthia “Cin-dee” D. Dunn currently serves as the Director for the Internal Revenue Service, Tax Exempt and Government Entities, Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion. Cin-dee has held this position in Washington, DC since 2004. She started her federal government career in... Read More →

Marguerite C. Garrison

Deputy Inspector General for Administrative Investigations, DoDIG

Ms. Marguerite C. Garrison became the Deputy Inspector General for Administrative Investigations and was appointed to the Senior Executive Service on July 18, 2011.Prior to accepting this position, Ms. Garrison was a career Army military police officer, retiring in the rank of Colonel... Read More →

Blanca A. Sanchez

Director, Civilian Human Resources,Diversity & Leadership Directorate, USCG

Ms. Blanca A. Sanchez ia a member of the Senior Executive Service currently serving as a Director of the Civilian Human Resdources (HR), Diversity, and Leadership at the United States Coast Guard (USCG) Headquarters, in Washington DC. Ms. Sanchez is responsible for USCG's overall... Read More →

Dr. Lyle J Hogue

Director, Army Strategic Outreach and Partnerships, USArmy

Dr. Lyle J. Hogue assumed duties as Director of Army Strategic Outreach and Partnerships on 1 November 2023. Prior to this role, Dr. Hogue served as the Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Army (Equity and Inclusion). In this new position, Dr. Hogue partners with Army organizations... Read More →

Dr. Javier E. Inclán

Assistant Inspector General for Management and Chief Information Officer, NSF OIG

Javier E. Inclán joined the National Science Foundation Office of Inspector General as the Assistant Inspector General for Management and Chief Information Officer in May 2022. In this role, Dr. Inclán has responsibility for the OIG’s budget planning and execution; human capital... Read More →

Mrs. Suzanne R. Torres

Chief, Programs and Management Division, Human Capital, U.S. Army Futures Command (AFC), Army Futures Command (AFC)

Mrs. Suzanne R. Torres serves as the Chief, Programs and Management Division, Human Capital, U.S. Army Futures Command (AFC). She is responsible for the development and management of the full HR spectrum of civilian programs. She is responsible for developing and implementing policy... Read More →

Marianne Malizia

Deputy Assistant Secretary (Force Resilience) & Chief Diversity Officer, USAF

Marianne Malizia, a member of the Senior Executive Service, is the Deputy Assistant Secretary, Office of Force Resilience, and the Chief Diversity Officer for the U.S. Air Force. In this role, Ms. Malizia is responsible for planning, establishing, and implementing policy for activities... Read More →

Thursday June 27, 2024 1:30pm - 3:00pm PDT
Neopolitan 2

3:15pm PDT

FTI Spotlight - Establishing or Refining USAJOBs and LinkedIn Profiles

This workshop will provide the opportunity for participants to establish or refine profiles
“on the spot” with experts that can help guide you during the process. Both profiles are
necessary to maximize success when applying for most Federal government positions.

ECQ competencies covered: Building Coalitions

Moderators

Camille Weber

Recruitment & Outreach Coordinator, EPA

Camille is the Recruitment and Outreach Coordinator in Region 9’s Mission Support Division. She helps lead the Region’s recruitment efforts by establishing relationships with nationally identified Minority Serving Institutions and providing workshops on the federal hiring process... Read More →

Speakers

Dr. Corinna Balderramos Robinson

Nat'l Leadership Dev Director, NAHFE

Dr. James Mcdonald

Senior Executive Service Advisor for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion And Accesibillity, EPA

Dr. James McDonald currently serves as the Senior Executive Senior Advisor for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility for the Office of the Regional Administrator at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 6. Prior this role, he served as the Assistant Regional Administrator... Read More →

Alejandra Hernandez

Senior Federal Investigator, DoDIG

Alejandra Hernandez is a first-generation Mexican American who was raised in the inner city of Chicago, Illinois. She enlisted into the delayed entry program at 17 years old; and shortly after graduating Curie high school in 2004, she left to begin her journey in the Marine Corps... Read More →

Thursday June 27, 2024 3:15pm - 4:45pm PDT
Neopolitan 2

3:15pm PDT

FTI Spotlight - Executive Interview Strategies

This presentation provides you guidance when getting ready for the interview process. You’ll hear from a former or current SES who has served on multiple SES panels. Learn what to expect and how to orient your responses to your maximum advantage. You’ll learn more about how to share stories about yourself and defend why you are ready to be a member of the SES.

ECQ competencies covered: Leading Change/Leading People/Results Driven/Business Acumen/Building Coaltions

Moderators

Sandra Rivera

Communications Branch Manager and EPA's Hispanic Employment Program Council Chair Office of Engagement & Program Management, EPA

Sandra Rivera is a diversity leader with 23+ years of experience in developing and managing various organizational programs from the development and implementation of business solutions to program strategies. She has industry experience with the Big 4 international professional services... Read More →

Speakers

Dr. Javier E. Inclán

Assistant Inspector General for Management and Chief Information Officer, NSF OIG

Javier E. Inclán joined the National Science Foundation Office of Inspector General as the Assistant Inspector General for Management and Chief Information Officer in May 2022. In this role, Dr. Inclán has responsibility for the OIG’s budget planning and execution; human capital... Read More →

Dr. Beatriz Cuartas

DOE Senior Advisor for Workforce Engagement at the office of Energy Justice & Equity (EJE), Department of Energy

Dr. Cuartas is a public servant, social scientist, writer, speaker, volunteer, and mom. Currently, Beatriz serves as DOE Senior Advisor for Workforce Engagement at the office of Energy Justice & Equity (EJE). He role is to keep the workforce engaged (~ 175k employees that spans over... Read More →

Thursday June 27, 2024 3:15pm - 4:45pm PDT
Neopolitan 1

9:00am PDT

FTI Spotlight - Emotional Intelligence and the Clear Connection of ECQs

How does Emotional Intelligence contribute to leadership and to career success? Explore the concepts and relationships to the competencies, and the ways to evaluate your current use of EI and using it for the ECQ development.

ECQ competencies covered: Leading People-Team Building-Leveraging Diversity /Results Driven-Accountability-Decisiveness/Leading Change-Flexibility-Resilience/Building Coalitions-Political Savvy-Influencing

Moderators

Maricela Garcia

Chief Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, USCG

CHIEF, DIVERSITY, EQUITY, & INCLUSION Mari Garcia is a results-driven thought leader with a stellar record developing, implementing, and evaluating diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) strategies that show the value of diverse and inclusive environments. She serves as the Chief... Read More →

Friday June 28, 2024 9:00am - 10:15am PDT
Neopolitan 2

9:00am PDT

FTI Spotlight - The Importance of Mentorship & Professional Networks

This panel brings together Senior Executive and Senior Government Official mentors and aspiring Federal professionals. The discussion will focus on the transformative power of mentoring and building networks. Participants will have the opportunity to engage in meaningful conversations, gain insights into leadership experiences, and receive personalized guidance from seasoned mentors. Attendees will learn about the invaluable role of mentoring and networking for career development, leadership growth, and fostering a culture of knowledge-sharing within the federal sector.

ECQ competencies covered: Leading Change/Leading People/Building Coalitions

Moderators

Olga Cano

Architect and Environmental Engineer, EPA

Olga is an Architect and Environmental Engineer supporting the Water Sense® Homes Program at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). She is dedicated to transforming residential water efficiency standards and practices. As the manager of the EPA’s Office of Water Women... Read More →

Speakers

Cynthia D. Dunn

Director, Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, Internal Revenue Service

Cynthia “Cin-dee” D. Dunn currently serves as the Director for the Internal Revenue Service, Tax Exempt and Government Entities, Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion. Cin-dee has held this position in Washington, DC since 2004. She started her federal government career in... Read More →

Dr. Javier E. Inclán

Assistant Inspector General for Management and Chief Information Officer, NSF OIG

Javier E. Inclán joined the National Science Foundation Office of Inspector General as the Assistant Inspector General for Management and Chief Information Officer in May 2022. In this role, Dr. Inclán has responsibility for the OIG’s budget planning and execution; human capital... Read More →

Friday June 28, 2024 9:00am - 10:15am PDT
Neopolitan 1

10:30am PDT

FTI Spotlight - Joining National Association of Hispanic Federal Executives

Come prepared to learn of the many exciting benefits of being a NAHFE member. This presentation will be delivered in two Parts:

Part 1 - "What NAHFE is About," which provides and Overview of NAHFE as well as the connections between each ECQ, each Emotional Intelligence Element and each of NAHFE's Strategic Goals. It will also reference its continued partnership with LULAC's Federal Training Institute (FTI) Program to further these goals and enhance federal service inclusivity and effectiveness.

Part 2 - "Charting our Path Forward," ," focuses on future strategies for continuing NAHFE's mission, encouraging members to reflect on key questions, embrace cultural awareness, and celebrate diversity. It inspires members to use their leadership roles to open doors for others and highlights unity and interconnectedness.

ECQ competencies covered: Leading Change/Leading People/Results Driven/Business Acumen/Building Coaltions

Speakers

Al Gallegos

President, NAHFE

Mr. Al Gallegos is a native of California, a graduate of San Diego State University and holds a bachelor’s degree in public administration. He was a certified Network Engineer and Instructor. In San Diego he worked for several agencies within the Department of the Navy.NON-PROFITS:NAHFE... Read More →

Dr. Beatriz Cuartas

DOE Senior Advisor for Workforce Engagement at the office of Energy Justice & Equity (EJE), Department of Energy

Dr. Cuartas is a public servant, social scientist, writer, speaker, volunteer, and mom. Currently, Beatriz serves as DOE Senior Advisor for Workforce Engagement at the office of Energy Justice & Equity (EJE). He role is to keep the workforce engaged (~ 175k employees that spans over... Read More →

Friday June 28, 2024 10:30am - 11:00am PDT
Neopolitan 1

11:00am PDT

FTI Spotlight - FTI Closing Ceremony

All FTI Attendees, Speakers and Moderators will be invited.

Speakers

Al Gallegos

President, NAHFE

Mr. Al Gallegos is a native of California, a graduate of San Diego State University and holds a bachelor’s degree in public administration. He was a certified Network Engineer and Instructor. In San Diego he worked for several agencies within the Department of the Navy.NON-PROFITS:NAHFE... Read More →

Friday June 28, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Neopolitan 1