17th Annual National
Latina Symposium
and Virtual Awards Presentation
Major General Linda Urrutia-Varhall
(Ret), U.S. Air Force.
Bringing together a distinguished group of
national and local leaders, partners,
sponsors, and honorees virtually on
September 18th, the 17th Annual National Latina
Symposium provided the audience with a program
full of workshops, career tips and a wellness
session.
Attendees were welcomed by opening
remarks provided by Robert E. Bard, President &
CEO, LATINA Style, Inc. In addition, title sponsor
remarks were delivered by Odalys Fajardo,
Walmart Inc. Co-Chair introduction and remarks
were provided by Major General Angela Salinas
(Ret) U.S. Marine Corps; Major General Linda
Urrutia-Varhall (Ret), and U.S. Air Force; Brigadier
General Irene M. Zoppi, U.S. Army Reserve.
During the first panel of the day titled “Powerful
By Gloria Romano-Barrera
Chief Executive Officer, Girl Scouts of
Southwest Texas (GSSWT) Major
General Angela (Angie) Salinas, U.S.
Marine Corps (Ret).
Leadership Lessons…Leading by Example,”
successful Latinas in the military shared lessons
learned, experiences gained throughout the years
and ways to overcome challenges. Attendees also
learned about how success and leadership can
positively impact the community.
Moderated by SMSgt Sonora L. Vasquez, U.S.
Air Force, panelists included Major General
Angela Salinas (Ret) U.S. Marine Corps; Major
General Linda Urrutia-Varhall (Ret), U.S. Air Force;
Brigadier General Irene M. Zoppi, U.S. Army
Reserve.
The second panel of the day titled “Nurturing
Latina Success,” focused on leadership advice and
self-development. Panelists discussed the support
systems that have helped them in their path to
success.
Brigadier General Irene M. Zoppi, U.S.
Army Reserve.
Senior Master Sergeant Sonora L.
Vasquez, U.S. Air Force.
26 www.latinastyle.com LATINAStyle V ol. 26, No. 6, 2020
/www.latinastyle.com
