ENGLISH

A familiar face in Amarillo, and in the Hispanic Community, Ana is a community leader who has worked in business and community development for over 10 years. She recently assisted in launching “Tu Cuidad”, City Federal’s Credit Union community development program helping bridge financial gaps in underserved communities. For fifteen years, she consulted business owners and taught classes for entrepreneurs in all areas of business from start-up to exit planning at America’s SBDC at WTAMU. She launched a series called Pasos al Exito for Spanish-speaking entrepreneurs. As a first-generation student and business owner, she understands the importance of small business and education for our community.

She has also held leadership roles at Los Barrios de Amarillo, GROW Christian Network Amarillo Business Women, Barrio Neighborhood Planning Committee. Ana holds an M.B.A. in Finance and a Bachelor’s in Business Administration from West Texas A&M University. She is the recipient of the TAMACC Award, Hispanic Women of the Year, SBDC’s State Star, Top 20 under 40 and Cinco de Mayo Grand Marshal.
When she is not talking business, she is planning her next vacation, working on her planner or playing with her kids.

SPANISH

Una cara familiar en Amarillo y en la comunidad hispana, Ana es una líder comunitaria que ha trabajado en negocios y desarrollo comunitario durante más de 10 años. Recientemente ayudó en el lanzamiento de “Tu Cuidad”, el programa de desarrollo comunitario de la Cooperativa de Crédito de City Federal que ayuda a cerrar las brechas financieras en comunidades desatendidas. Durante quince años, consultó a dueños de negocios e impartió clases para emprendedores en todas las áreas de negocios, desde el inicio hasta la planificación de salida en America’s SBDC en WTAMU. Lanzó una serie llamada Pasos al Éxito para emprendedores en español. Como estudiante de primera generación y propietaria de un negocio, comprende la importancia de las pequeñas empresas y la educación para nuestra comunidad.

También ha desempeñado funciones de liderazgo en Los Barrios de Amarillo, GROW Christian Network Amarillo Business Women, Comité de Planificación Vecinal del Barrio. Ana tiene una Maestría en Finanzas y una Licenciatura en Administración de Empresas de la Universidad West Texas A&M. Ella recibió el Premio TAMACC, Mujer Hispana del Año, Estrella Estatal de SBDC, Top 20 menores de 40 años y Gran Mariscal del Cinco de Mayo.

Cuando no está hablando de negocios, está planificando sus próximas vacaciones, trabajando en su agenda o jugando con sus hijos.

ENGLISH

Known for her outgoing and welcoming spirit, Marissa was born in Amarillo, Texas, and spent twelve formative years in Dimmitt, TX before returning home to graduate proudly from Caprock High School in 2011.

Deeply connected to her Hispanic heritage, Marissa’s family has always been at the center of her heart—especially her two boys, Zavien and Josiah, who inspire her every day to lead with love, kindness, and integrity. They are her joy, her motivation, and her reason to be the example her community needs. Marissa also helps run her family’s business, The Rustic Leopard Boutique, where she combines creativity, energy, and a passion for making people feel valued. For nearly two years, she has been a dedicated member of the Bienvenidos Committee, proudly contributing to her community and celebrating the culture and people she loves.

Known for turning strangers into friends and always bringing her whole heart to everything she does, Marissa is excited for the future and the opportunity to make a lasting, positive impact on her family, community, and everyone she meets.

SPANISH

Conocida por su espíritu extrovertido y acogedor, Marissa nació en Amarillo, Texas, y pasó doce años de formación en Dimmitt, Texas, antes de regresar a casa para graduarse con orgullo de la Preparatoria Caprock en el 2011.

Profundamente conectada con su herencia hispana, la familia de Marissa siempre ha estado en el centro de su corazón, especialmente sus dos hijos, Zavien y Josiah, quienes la inspiran cada día a liderar con amor, amabilidad e integridad. Son su alegría, su motivación y su razón de ser el ejemplo que su comunidad necesita. Marissa también ayuda a dirigir el negocio familiar, The Rustic Leopard Boutique, donde combina creatividad, energía y pasión para hacer que las personas se sientan valoradas. Durante casi dos años, ha sido un miembro dedicado del Comitéde Bienvenidos, contribuyendo con orgullo a su comunidad y celebrando la cultura y a las personas que ama.

Conocida por convertir a desconocidos en amigos y siempre poner todo su corazón en todo lo que hace, Marissa está entusiasmada con el futuro y la oportunidad de tener un impacto positivo y duradero en su familia, su comunidad y todas las personas que conoce.

EDUCATION CREDIT UNION

With more than 16 years of experience in the banking and technology industries and a Bachelor of Business Administration in Computer Information Systems from WTAMU, I am dedicated to providing leadership and guidance to help others succeed. As a true believer in the principles of servant leadership, I am passionate about giving back to my community and empowering those around me. Currently serving as the Manager of Business Intelligence & Development at Education Credit Union, I am committed to leveraging my skills and expertise to drive strategic growth, innovation, and organizational success.

In my personal life, I am happily married and the proud father of a baby boy and a baby girl. I enjoy staying physically active through activities such as going to the gym, mountain biking, running, playing sports, and golfing, which help me maintain balance, focus, and energy in both my professional and personal life.

CASTILLO PROPERTIES

Originally from Dumas, Texas, Yolanda Castillo has called Amarillo home for the past 20 years. As the owner of Castillo Properties, she brings over 15 years of experience in the banking industry, having successfully managed multiple branches.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Yolanda is deeply committed to giving back to the community. She has served as a Loan Executive with United Way, raising funds to support families in need across Potter and Randall Counties. Yolanda is also an active volunteer with several local organizations, including the March of Dimes, Eveline River’s Christmas Project, Hi-Plains Food Bank, Meals on Wheels, the Amarillo Chamber of Commerce, and the Amarillo Parade of Homes.

When she’s not working or volunteering, Yolanda enjoys traveling and cherishing quality time with her family and friends.

CACIQUE INC.

Nune Perez is Amarillo Sanitation Operations Manager at Cacique Foods. He is a child of the Panhandle of Texas. Served 6 Years Active-Duty United States Navy culminating as Master at Arms Second-class Petty Officer when Honorably Discharged in 2010. He has been a part of many organizations ranging from Texas Panhandle Heritage Foundation, WTAMU Student Government, and to being a Founder of WTAMU Veterans Network.

He has been married to Mayra Hernandez for10 years and they have one daughter lxchel. He is active with St. Josephs Catholic Church and City View PTA. He enjoys Family time and is a resident “foodie”. He has been a resource for developing Food Safety Standards and sits on National Committee for SQF Code review which is a Global Food Safety Initiative standard. “Amarillo has become my home and nothing in this world matches the majesty of an Amarillo sunset across the plains”

CNS PANTEX

Lisa Torres is a Program Manager at CNS Pantex where she oversees the strategy, planning, and execution of site level objectives within the Facilities and Infrastructure Organization. She is a Veteran of the U.S. Air Force and feels Pantex is a continuation of her service to the country. She has a bachelor’s degree in applied science with an emphasis in Management and a Six Sigma Black Belt certification. She fosters an environment of teamwork by bolstering communication and collaboration at every level to ensure a shared vision and mission success. Lisa has extensive experience in facilitating teams through critical thinking and problem solving, coaching, and training. She is a seasoned change manager and embodies the leadership, soft skills, and strategic analysis necessary to cultivate change. Lisa is inspired daily by her husband and their four kids ranging in age from 14 to 7. In her free time, she enjoys cheering on her kids in their various activities, spending time with family and friends, and running.

AMARILLO NATIONAL BANK

Asiria Torres was born in Los Angeles, California and was raised in Mexico. She came to the United States at 17 and faced many struggles. While working and paying her own way through school she was able to graduate from Palo Duro High School. She continued to work while pursuing her bachelor’s degree in accounting from West Texas A&M University. During that time, she met her husband and had her first child all while trying to finish her education. During her time at West Texas A&M University, she started working at Amarillo National Bank as an Internal Auditor and had her second child. Asiria is now the Mortgage Loans Servicing Collections Manager at Amarillo National Bank.

STREET TOYOTA

Ivanna Flores was born in Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, and has proudly called Amarillo home since childhood. She currently serves as a Finance Administrative Assistant at Street Toyota, where she began working in 2022. Ivanna earned her Associate’s degree in Business Administration from Amarillo College and is now pursuing her Bachelor’s in Accounting at West Texas A&M University. As a first-generation Hispanic college student, she is passionate about creating opportunities for others in her community. Her seven-year-old daughter is her greatest joy and biggest motivation, reminding her of the importance of perseverance, growth, and creating opportunities for future generations. In her free time, Ivanna enjoys spending time with her family, staying active, and exploring new experiences.

BURTON INSURANCE

Helen Burton has been an Entrepreneur in the Insurance Industry for almost 20 years. Helen
started Burton Insurance Agency in 2012 and expanded her portfolio of services. She currently
serves on the Amarillo Economic Development Corporation Board, Amarillo Area Foundation
Board, Treasurer for Andrea’s Project, TIRZ II East Gateway Board, Advisory Board for the
Amarillo Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. Helen also serves on the Task Force For Greatness
Committee and the Neighborhood Barrio Planning Committee Member. Helen is the founder of
Women Empowering Women with over 3500+ subscribers. Helen was voted Hispanic Woman
of the Year in 2019.

FIRSTBANK SOUTHWEST

Annette Asencio is a native of Hereford, TX. Annette is an SVP, Bank Operations Manager and
BSA Officer for FirstBank Southwest. She has over 38 years of banking experience. She is
certified by and a member of the Association of Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialists.
She currently oversees back-office deposit processing, electronic banking, identity theft
prevention, Bank Secrecy Act compliance, vendor management and risk management. She
served as a representative for FirstBank Southwest on the Amarillo Hispanic Chamber of
Commerce Board of Directors from 2008 to 2015. She also served as Chairman of the AHCC
Board in 2011 and 2012. She currently serves on the Amarillo Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
Advisory Board.

AMIGOS UNITED

Raymond Gaitan is a native of Hereford, TX. Raymond is the Store Director at Amigos.
Raymond serves on the Advisory Council for the Amarillo Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. He
is on the Board of Directors with The Wesley Community Center and serves on the Parent
Advisory Council (PAC) committee for Caprock High School. Raymond is the father of four sons
and has seven Grandchildren.

Charlie Sanchez is a lifelong resident of Amarillo, TX. He obtained his Safety Certification in
CHST-Construction Safety Health. He is an instructor at UT Arlington teaching safety courses.
He is a longtime member of St. Mary’s Catholic Cathedral where he is a lecturer and an
audio/visual technician. He is actively involved in the Amarillo community through the United
Way Campaign and Los Barrios de Amarillo. He is the past president of Amarillo Center City
and past chairman of Center City Block Party. His hobbies include playing golf, watching Turner
Classic Movies and gourmet cooking.

CNS PANTEX

Darlene Saldivar is a lifelong resident of Amarillo, Texas. In 1988, she was one of two
individuals nominated from all Amarillo high schools to work for the Department of Energy and
has been employed at the Pantex Plant ever since in various capacities. She has since been a
Senior Manager in the Supply Chain Management organization since 2005 in various
capacities. She currently manages shipping, receiving, and warehousing operations. She
served as a representative for the Pantex Plant on the Amarillo Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
Board of Directors from 2010 to 2021. She now serves on the Amarillo Hispanic Chamber of
Commerce Advisory Council. Darlene is married to Ernesto and they have three sons, Alex,
Fabian, and Gabriel.

HAPPY STATE BANK

Gilberto was born in Amarillo but was not raised here. He grew up in a small town about an hour south of here named Friona. Once he graduated High School he moved to Amarillo and attended Amarillo College and WT. In 2019, Gilberto Elite Fight Promotions alongside his twin brother Gerardo and his business partner Jose Montanez. They started locally but due to the tremendous support received from the community of Amarillo, they have been fortunate enough to expand to other cities in the state. With the success of the company, he began to make investments in real estate and that is how his passion for Mortgage derived. Buying a home is one of, if not the most important purchases one can make in their lifetime and it is an honor for Gilberto to be able to help in the process, especially helping our Hispanic community. “The community of Amarillo has done so much for me and I want nothing more than to give back.”

BUDWEISER DISTRIBUTING COMPANY

Paul is a Sales Manager for Budweiser Distributing Company and has worked with the company for 14 years. Paul is married to his wife; Melissa Warner Rodriguez, and they have four children. In his free time, he enjoys umpiring baseball on the weekends and enjoys playing golf and poker.

AFFILIATED FOODS

Manuel Tovar is the Director of Ethnic Marketing at Affiliated Foods Inc., with responsibilities for marketing
programs, brand management and corporate sponsorships. Prior to Joining Affiliated Foods, he worked in
strategic business development and marketing at several companies and served in different staff
positions. Notable is his 11 years with HEB Supermarkets and his 5 years as Localized Manager.
Manuel’s greatest strength is his creativity, drive, and leadership. His most recent project involved a
strategic program to increase the international product lines offered at Affiliated Foods. Manuel is a past
Board Member of Big Brothers Big Sisters in San Antonio and currently involved in Amarillo’s program. He has also been involved with United Way, YMCA, Church Organizations and many volunteer programs.

ATMOS ENERGY

Marco Valdez is a Supervisor of Customer Operations at Atmos Energy. He began his career at Atmos Energy in 2011 as a high school contractor during his senior year of high school at Caprock. He then attended Amarillo College and completed his degree plan in 2015 for his associate’s degree in graphic design. He was later promoted to the instructor position in November 2018, and during that time, was nominated for the Robert W Best Rising Spirit Award. In October 2019, he was promoted to Supervisor of Customer Operations. He enjoys empowering his employees with confidence, developing their skills, and getting to know them more personally. He is inspired daily by his colleagues and wife, Pam. In his free time, he likes to hike with his camera, play video games, and spend time with family.

TYSON FOODS

Alma is a dedicated professional with over a decade of experience in customer service and a proven track record in recruiting, business processes, and relationship building. Fluent in Spanish, she brings a strong background in human resources, office management, and talent acquisition to her role.

Born and raised in Pampa, TX, Alma has spent the last 16 years in Amarillo, TX, where she lives with her two children. Her deep commitment to community service is inspired by her children, who motivate her to stay actively engaged in making a difference. Alma has successfully volunteered with the Youth Cabinet to guide youth in community outreach, achieving significant fund-raising milestones and instilling philanthropic values in the next generation.

As the Community Liaison for Tyson Foods, Alma finds fulfillment in her work by connecting with people and spearheading initiatives that uplift her community. Alma has worn many hats within the United Way of Amarillo & Canyon, starting as a Loan Executive in 2018 and now serving as the Executive Campaign Coordinator for Tyson Foods.

FIRST COMMUNITY MORTGAGE

Mirna was born in Grand Island Nebraska and was raised in Cactus, Texas. She graduated from Dumas High School in 2002 and move to the big city of Amarillo, Texas. She has been residing in Amarillo, Texas for 21 years and serving the community. She began her retail banking career in 2005 and her mortgage career in 2011. She is heavily involved in helping the community with their mortgage financing needs. She has been married to Martin Hernandez for 15 years, and they have one son, Abrian.

THE NEVAREZ LAW

Nicholas “Nick” Nevarez Jr. was born in Shamrock, Texas, but grew up in Graham, Texas. He holds a B.A. in History from West Texas A&M University and a J.D. from the University at Buffalo School of Law. He is the lead attorney at The Nevarez Law Firm, LLC. He primarily practices in Criminal, Immigration, Probate, Social Security, and Uncontested Family Law matters. As a whole, the Firm has several attorneys practicing in various areas of law. Approximately 80% of his clients are Spanish speaking. Outside of work, he enjoys fishing, family time, and cheering for the Dallas Cowboys, Texas Rangers, Tennessee Volunteers, and Dallas Mavericks.

REED BEVERAGE

Damion Williams was born and raised in Amarillo, TX. He has been married to his high school sweetheart for 28 years, and together they have three children and are soon to welcome the first grandchild. With 19 years of dedicated service at Reed Beverage, Damion has excelled in multiple leadership roles and currently serves as President of Operations. His extensive experience, strong leadership skills, and commitment to operational excellence continue to play a vital role in the company’s success and growth.

In addition to his professional achievements, Damion is deeply involved in the Amarillo community. He gives back through his special events with Reed Beverage, is an active member of Ambucs-Amarillo, Palo Duro Chapter, and serves on the board of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. His dedication to service reflects both his personal values and his commitment to making a positive impact beyond the workplace.

CODY LONG ALL-STATE AGENCY

Priciliano was born and raised in Fresno, California, and proudly carry the cultural heritage of Guadalajara and Michoacán, where his parents are from. His roots run deep in both American and Mexican traditions—something that has shaped not only his dentity, but also his approach to life and business.

As a licensed insurance agent, he is deeply committed to serving and empowering the Hispanic community. He understands firsthand the challenges many families face when it comes to navigating financial protection and planning for the future. That’s why he has made it his mission to provide trusted guidance, accessible information, and personalized insurance solutions that truly meet the needs of the community.

Outside his professional life, he is passionate about personal growth and well-being. He is an avid runner and fitness enthusiast, and he enjoys spending time in the kitchen, exploring healthy, flavorful cooking rooted in his cultural traditions. These interests keep him grounded, focused, and motivated to be his best—both personally and professionally.

CALICO COUNTY

With a remarkable 29 years of expertise in the restaurant industry, Steve is fervently dedicated to fostering innovation and progress within the community. His professional journey includes influential roles as a Partner at Calico, District Manager at Popeyes, and President of the PTRA. He has successfully inaugurated 12 restaurants and revived the reputation of multiple establishments.

ATTORNEY DEAN BOYD, PLLC

Valeria was born and raised in Amarillo. She graduated from Amarillo College with an Associate’s in Business Administration and is currently working towards her Bachelor’s degree in Accounting. She plans on continuing her education with the goal of attending law school.

She is a first generation Hispanic college student and understand how overwhelming it can be when our community is unaware of available resources, especially when language barriers make communication difficult. She looks forward to serving her community and bringing awareness of programs and opportunities that allow us all to grow and succeed together.

LORIN HORNER REALTY GROUP

A real estate agent serving the Amarillo, Texas community. Born and raised in the Texas Panhandle, and his lifelong connection to this region drives his commitment to helping local families and individuals achieve their real estate goals.

In his work, he focuses on integrity, hard work, and truly understanding the needs of the people he serves. He believes every client deserves clarity, respect, and trust—especially within the Hispanic community. His goal is to empower Hispanic families with the knowledge and support they need to make confident real estate decisions.

He strives to expand his service to the Hispanic community in Amarillo. He wants to contribute to economic growth, support local Hispanic businesses, and help create opportunities that lift the entire community. With my lifelong ties to the Amarillo area and his passion for serving others, he looks forward to collaborating with fellow leaders to help build a strong, thriving, and inclusive future for Amarillo.

ACFCU

A community-focused leader with more than a decade of experience in financial services, administration, and human resources. She is passionate about helping others grow and succeed. Her career has been built on collaboration, service, and creating opportunities that make a lasting difference.

Throughout her time with ACFCU, she has focused on empowering employees and members through education, professional development, and leadership growth. These experiences have shown me the power of connection—how representation, mentorship, and access to resources can transform lives and strengthen our community.

Being Hispanic herself, she takes great pride in giving back and helping expand opportunities for all communities. She believes growth happens when we work together, celebrate our culture, and lift one another up.

Proudly serving the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Board to help further its mission of promoting economic development, advocacy, and cultural pride. Hispanic community. His goal is to empower Hispanic families with the knowledge and support they need to make confident real estate decisions.

He strives to expand his service to the Hispanic community in Amarillo. He wants to contribute to economic growth, support local Hispanic businesses, and help create opportunities that lift the entire community. With my lifelong ties to the Amarillo area and his passion for serving others, he looks forward to collaborating with fellow leaders to help build a strong, thriving, and inclusive future for Amarillo.