Name: Tony Salazar
Leadership Charlotte Class: 31
Company: Spanish Marketing Communications
Hometown: Tulsa, OK
Education: MS, Organizational Development, Managing Cultural Differences
Current personal or leadership goals: Explore ways to assist the Charlotte Hispanic community and make their elementary, middle school, high school and college students successful in their studies, careers, and to give back to their community.
If you could describe your Leadership Charlotte experience in three words or phrases what would they be?
Gratifying and exceeded my expectations. I learned about our local community, government and social infrastructure. I discovered new ways to contribute my talents and skills to improve others’ way of life.
What do you remember most vividly from your Leadership Charlotte experience and why?
The first and last days. It is not every day that one has the opportunity to open up your inner self and share deep thoughts and feelings with others. Having a safe and secure environment to do so was a great beginning and quite satisfying.
Advice to current participants:
Be on time, be alert, pay attention. Contribute your ideas and actively participate in group discussions. You’re in a safe place, so open up your heart and mind.
What are you doing in the community these days?
I am Chair of ASPIRA.org, a 54 year old non-profit organization with presence in 9 states and Puerto Rico. ASPIRA.org is dedicated to providing local Hispanic students with much needed after-school STEM programs, as well as youth leadership opportunities to give back to their community.