Tuesday, June 19th, 2012
National Education Association
1201 16th St NW
Washington, DC 20005

8:00 AM-8:30 AM
Event Registration / Networking Hour

8:15 AM-9:15 AM
KICK OFF BREAKFAST
“Empowering the Next Generation of Change-Makers”

Introduction
Ingrid Duran and Catherine Pino
PODER PAC Board Chair & Treasurer

Welcome
Lily Eskelsen, Vice President, NEA

Video and Presentation
Marisa Rivera
Founder of Mpowerment Works

Emcee
Giselle Fernandez

9:30 AM-10:30 AM
Panel Discussion #1
“2012 Political Landscape and Latinas in the Press”

Panelists:
Delia Garcia
former KS State Representative

Maria Cardona
Democratic Strategist

Moderator
Giselle Fernandez

10:45 AM-11:45 AM
Panel Discussion #2
“Candidate Commentary”

Panelists:
Mary Gonzalez
Texas State Representative

Michelle Lujan Grisham
Congressional Candidate NM-1

Moderator
Giselle Fernandez

12:15 PM-1:45 PM
Wrap Up / KEY NOTE LUNCHEON

Introduction
Lydia Madrigal & Joelle Martinez
Poder PAC Board Members

Keynote
Nely Galan
Founder of The Adelante Movement

Wrap-Up
Ingrid Duran and Catherine Pino

Emcee
Giselle Fernandez


Inspiring Latinas on the Move

The Conference participants, a mix of young leaders and seasoned advocates, gathered early and were not disappointed.  The presenters were dynamic, interesting, and accomplished communicators who not only discussed substantives issues of great interest to participants as well as strategies for success, but personal accounts of the challenges they overcame and the incredible champions they met on their road to public service. 

These women pointed out the importance of supporting each other in business, our professional lives, as well as in electoral politics.  The technological revolution provides us an unprecedented opportunity to quickly connect and build a national network to recruit and support talented, progressive Latina candidates who are motivated to run for office to advance public policies that will build a stronger, more competitive, and compassionate country. 

Join us for our upcoming gatherings -- details soon to be announced -- in Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Denver, and Texas. 

Check back for some of the inspirational footage gathered during this hisotric event.