Impact
A MESSAGE FROM OUR LEADERSHIP
As we reflect on the accomplishments of the past year, the HPGM Board and Staff extend our heartfelt gratitude to our members, donors, partners, sponsors and the community for your unwavering support Your intentional investment, strong engagement and continued commitment have been instrumental to addressing the barriers that prevent Latinos from full economic participation, increasing prosperity and growing Latino influence in Wisconsin
Much of 2023 was spent building critical systems, growing our programming, and deepening member engagement and experience Among our notable achievements were two sold-out summits, featuring national and global speakers, and gathering more than 400 professionals in Wisconsin. We launched Cafecito con HPGM series, and supported the founding of Techqueria x MKE, further enriching our community. HPGM raised $500,000 during our sold-out Gala Experience to advance our mission, programming, and greatest needs.
One of the greatest affirmations of our work to build a prosperous and influential Latino community in Wisconsin is the growth we’ve seen in our membership. Since 2021, we have grown the HPGM membership community from 2,200 to more than 3,600 professionals. In addition to our membership growth, we’ve increased representation across major employers, organizations and small businesses in the community.
As we create new possibilities for Latinos and our families, HPGM remains committed to values of belonging, excellence, leadership and advocacy. We look forward to lifting our community alongside our incredible collaborators, partners and champions.
Thank you once again for your continued support and partnership Juntos, somos el poder and we will continue to reach great heights in the coming year!
Francesca Mayca Wegner President & Chief Possibilities Officer
WE ARE HPGM
Who we are and what we do
MISSION
HPGM is a membership organization whose mission is to connect and unite Hispanic Professionals, students and the community with rich heritage, strong leadership and impactful initiatives.
We are committed to empowering the lives and futures of Latinos in Wisconsin through leadership development, investment in educational excellence, and by convening and engaging the region’s dynamic Hispanic professional community
VISION
HPGM is driven to increase economic opportunity and effective representation for Hispanics by supporting the elimination of barriers to family sustaining careers and higher education for Hispanics in Wisconsin.
We build the current and next generation of Latino leadership by providing impactful professional development opportunities and fostering meaningful connections As a thought leader, HPGM continues to convene around critical issues that directly impact the community We strive to increase representation, build intergenerational wealth and close the influence gap across all sectors
OUR WORK
AT-A-GLANCE
HPGM collaborates with and supports more than 100 community organizations, employers, Employee Resource Groups/Business Resource Groups, higher education partners, membership organizations, non-profits, and small businesses We support ERGs and employers in identifying talent and serve as the connector for aspiring and current Latino professionals
Small Businesses & Entrepreneurs
Employer Partners
HPGM supports corporate and employer partners in the region by identifying Latino talent for recruitment, development, and advancement opportunities across various industries and sectors Collaboration with Employee Resource Groups and Business Resource Groups ensures that employers are building an inclusive workplace that retains and elevates Latino talent within their organizations.
Community Partners
Community organizations, nonprofits, higher education institutions and other missionaligned organizations expand the reach of HPGM’s programs and form an ecosystem of support for Latinos in the region
Small businesses and entrepreneurs are provided with a network of professionals and various communication platforms to share information about their businesses. HPGM provides professional development and community connections to help entrepreneurs grow as leaders, as well as scale their business operations
Rising Leaders
Two-year, undergraduate and advanced degree students at 11 partner institutions of higher education are connected with mentors, internships and career opportunities, professional skillbuilding support and unique insights to prepare them for the workforce HPGM is the trusted hand-off partner for students as they transition into the workforce across all sectors and industries.
Latino Talent
Early-career, mid-career, senior and executive level professionals are the core of HPGM Our programming is designed to equip all professional levels with leadership development, mentoring, a connected network, and culturally-affirming experiences.
HPGM is the Latino ERG of Milwaukee.
3,600+
See how our comunidad has grown!
Total social media audience
10,000 +
13%
Social Media Audience Growth increased Total engagements up across all platforms compared to previous year
273%
New in 2023 HIGHLIGHTS
Convened more than 200 women and community leaders for International Women’s Day with a focus on empowering women and embracing equity Collaborated with Milwaukee's top women's organizations: American Association of University Women, Institute for Women’s Leadership, League of Women Voters, Milwaukee Muslim Women’s Coalition, Milwaukee Women Inc, Professional Dimensions, TEMPO Milwaukee, Women’s Fund of Greater Milwaukee, and Wisconsin Women's Business Initiative Corporation
Hosted 2nd annual event with nearly 100 attendees
Launched Poderosa Collective logo, brand kit, and mission statement
Launched Cafecito con HPGM program
Welcomed over 100 professionals to seven cafecitos covering various topics and highlighting members
Piloted complimentary professional headshots
HPGM is a founding member of Techqueria MKE
HPGM helped Launch Techqueria MKE at Summerfest Tech. Techqueria x MKE (the first Wisconsin-founded chapter) is on a mission to empower Latinx professionals with the resources and support they need to further their careers and become leaders in the tech industry. i.c.stars spearheaded the effort to launch the chapter along with Carmen Diana, Data You Can Use, HPGM, Jasmin Treske, Julea Ferrara, and MiVoz
Didyouknow?
According to a 2021 analysis of federal government data by the Pew Research Center, Latinxworkersmakeup17% of total employment across all occupations, but just 8% of tech workers
HPGM Impactful OUTCOMES
Mentor Mindset
Mentor Mindset is an intentional and intimate program that allows individuals to explore multiple mentor and mentee relationships by tapping into HPGM’s extensive network of more than 3,600 professionals. Mentor programming expanded from a semiannual program to a quarterly series and includes mentor training, matching events and small group formats.
CAREER CONNECTIONS
Develop your career by building meaningful connections with individuals who are ready to share their expertise and help you succeed
DIVERSE TALENT
Representation matters Find role models and develop relationships with individuals of diverse backgrounds so you can be your most authentic self as you progress in your career
BUILD YOUR NETWORK
Build connections across a wide variety of industries and experience levels No matter which industry you’re currently working in or interested in pursuing, there’s a match for you
Quarterly
Series 100 Mentors
12+
mentor connections made industries
Law, business, finance, non-profit, HR, corporate, government, marketing, communications, entrepreneurs, education, industrial
2023 program partners:
Mentor Mindset was the most impactful because it was the first time that I got to see successful Latinos from all sectors in a single room This is where I gained a valuable mentor, someone I can rely on when I need help. I also gained valuable advice from many well-established professionals from different career paths that I can apply universally to my career journey. Through HPGM, I witnessed firsthand the power of a network when I was able to leverage it to get my internship."
Josue Peralta Staff Assistant at the United States Senate
Adelante Juntos & Fall Summit
Adelante Juntos and Fall Summit are HPGM’s premier bi-annual leadership summits. The purpose of the summit is to inspire the HPGM community to stand in their power as Latino professionals and arm attendees with tools and strategies to lead themselves, within their teams, and throughout their organizations
Sold out registration
Doubled 2022 registrants
Global & National Speakers
“HPGM is a place where Latino leadership and talent are developing at a crucial time of great Latino population growth. HPGM intentionally and effectively increases leadership representation by fostering the potential of its members through mentorship and access to critical networks of influence ”
Judge
Pedro Colón Wisconsin Court of Appeals
Gala Experience
The annual HPGM Gala is a signature event that brings together nearly 500 community members in support of our mission Funds raised ensure that HPGM can continue providing impactful mentoring, career and leadership development programs, while eliminating barriers to education for Latino professionals and students in the region
In 2023, HPGM introduced two new awards at the Gala. The Espíritu Award recognizes an individual or group that embodies the HPGM spirit. The Poderosa Award recognizes those who strive to curate spaces where Latinas feel empowered, celebrated and united.
$500,000 raised Sold out registration with more than 500 attendees
2 New Awards Espíritu & Poderosa
Board Pipeline Initiative
Board Pipeline Initiative is a virtual training program that introduces professionals to the foundational concepts of board service. Session topics include board basics, financials, exploring various types of boards/committees, fundraising, partnerships and more.
304
Graduates since 2018
100%
5 BPI consists of a fiveweek training program and matching event
Our goal is to increase representation for Latinos on non-profit committees and boards, with the broader goal of increasing representation for Latinos on both volunteer and paid corporate boards of respondents reported improvement in understanding non-profit financials and fundraising after completing BPI.
I liked the variety of experiences the panelists had with serving on boards. It was beneficial hearing their stories of how they first got involved with committees and boards. I appreciated the advice the panelists provided for questions to ask, how to assess and reflect for yourself which boards would be a good fit, and determining where you want to invest your time.
LUIS BENEVOGLIENTI
HPGM
Member,
University of Wisconsin-Parkside
Scholar Spotlight
“I am profoundly grateful to HPGM for the financial support I received over the past two years. HPGM's scholarship helped me continue my education and complete my degree sooner than expected by giving me financial peace of mind. It was a wonderful experience to see myself among so many students from different universities ”
MARTA PRADO
2022 & 2023 HPGM Scholar
The HPGM scholarship allowed me to finish my Master’s in three years rather than the five years that I had originally planned My master’s was key in helping me develop the confidence and skills I needed to pursue a new role. I’m extremely thankful for HPGM and the donors who made this possible. It’s changed my life and the life of my family as I can now return my focus on my four young kids.
ZIANYA SALDAÑA
2022 HPGM Scholar
Director of Equity & Community Initiatives Greater Green Bay Community Foundation
HPGM Strategic Plan
PRIORITIES
We remain steadfast in our work to increase economic opportunity and effective representation by serving as a catalyst for career advancement and supporting the elimination of barriers to higher education for Latinos in Wisconsin.
The data and insights detailing the rapidly growing need for support for Hispanics heavily informed the objectives and priorities of our 2023-2026 Strategic Plan. Over the next two years, HPGM will focus on delivering advanced outcomes within the following key strategic areas:
Systems & Infrastructure
Create and design innovative systems over the next two years that will establish a sustainable infrastructure to optimally leverage data and ignite our value proposition for brand, culture and mission outcomes
Financial Sustainability
Enhance and diversify HPGM’s revenue streams to strengthen our financial position for multi-generational growth
Strategic Partnerships & Programming
Establish distinctive programs and strategic partnerships that position HPGM as a network of influence and vital catalyst for Latino (professional and academic) achievement.
2023 Accomplishments
ADVANCING THE WORK
Established a new CRM system
Created policies, procedures and employee handbook
New Board Committees launched to suppor
-Fund Development
-HR & Culture
-Marketing & PR
-Programming & Strategic Partnerships
Convened a Culture Essentials & Community
5 Ways to GET INVOLVED
hpgm.org/membership
hpgm.org/programming-experiences
HPGM TEAM
FRANCESCA
MAYCA WEGNER
HPGM President & Chief Possibilities Officer
AMANDA HOLLAND
HPGM Vice President of Operations
GABRIELA BARBOSA
HPGM Assistant Director of Communications and Programs
2023 & 2024 BOARD OF DIRECTORS
HPGM Executive Committee
CHAIR:
JESÚS GONZÁLEZ
Rockwell Automation
General Counsel, North America and Global Market Access
VICE CHAIR:
BRENDA BEST
Milwaukee Brewers
Senior Director, HR and DEI
TREASURER:
CLIFTON DAVIS
Deloitte
Wisconsin Managing Tax Partner
SECRETARY:
CHRISTOPHER SCHREIBER
Michael Best & Friedrich LLP
Partner
MEMBER AT-LARGE:
OMAR VELAOCHAGA
Kohl’s
Diversity & Inclusion Senior Manager
ALVARO ARAQUE
Johnson Financial Group
Senior Vice President, Director of Consumer, Private and Small Business Banking
GENARO BAEZ
Milwaukee County Director, HR Operations, Learning & Development and Talent Acquisition
MICAH CRAWFORD
Milwaukee Tool Director of Marketing, Latin America
SANDI ESQUIVEL
Northwestern Mutual Assistant Director, Software Engineering – Flex Force
GUILLERMO GUTIERREZ
Manpower Group
Director of Diversity, Inclusion, and Equity
ALBERTO MALDONADO
UWM
Director & Co-Lead for Hispanic Serving Initiatives
Roberto Hernandez Center
EDGAR MAYORGA
Johnson Controls CFO, Global Security Products
MARCELIA NICHOLSON
Milwaukee County Chairwoman - Milwaukee County Board of Supervisors
DR. KRISTINA ROPELLA
Marquette University Opus Dean, Opus College of Engineering
JOSE E. SAENZ
Notre Dame School of Milwaukee Vice President of Finance
ELIZABETH STRIKE
Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin ID&E Manager
MARCOS VEGA
BMO Harris Bank
Sr. Vice President/Director
BENJAMIN WAGNER
Habush, Habush, & Rottier S C Partner
AC COACHING
ACTS HOUSING
ADVOCATE HEALTH
ALLCON CONSTRUCTION
ALL-IN MILWAUKEE, INC.
ALLSPRING GLOBAL INVESTMENTS
ALVERNO COLLEGE
AMBROSIA EVENTS
AMERICAN FAMILY INSURANCE
ANTIGUA RESTAUREANT & CATERING
ASSOCIATED BANK
AUGUSTINE PREP
BADER PHILANTHROPIES, INC
BIANCHINI EXPERIENCE
BIZSTARTS
BMO
BREAKTHRU BEVERAGE
BREWERS COMMUNITY FOUNDATION
CARMEN DIANA
CARROLL UNIVERSITY
CARTHAGE COLLEGE
CATHOLIC CHARITIES
CHASKA CONSULTING
CHILDREN'S WI
CHORUS COMMUNITY HEALTH PLAN
CHRIS & JENNIFER ABELE
CITY YEAR MILWAUKEE
CLAY CREATIONS BY KAYLA/RESILIENT JOY
CRISTO REY JESUIT
DELOITTE
DIRECT SUPPLY
EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION COACH
EY
FESTIBEETY LLC
FISERV
FROEDTERT HEALTH
GARUZ CRAWFORD, LLC
GATEWAY CAPITAL PARTNERS
GE HEALTHCARE
GIRL SCOUTS OF WISCONSIN SOUTHEAST
GODFREY & KAHN
GREATER MILWAUKEE FOUNDATION
HABUSH HABUSH & ROTTIER
HARWOOD ENGINEERING
HOLA BONITA CREATIVE
HUSCO
I.C. STARS
J.P. MORGAN CHASE
JGMA
JOHNSON CONTROLS
JOHNSON FINANCIAL GROUP
KOHL'S
LATINO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
LEADING TRANSITIONS LLC
LIFECAMP
LITERACY SERVICES OF WISCONSIN
MAJIC PRODUCTIONS
MAKE-A-WISH WISCONSIN
MANPOWERGROUP
MARCUS HOTELS & RESORTS
MARCUS PERFORMING ARTS CENTER
MARQUETTE UNIVERSITY
MEDICAL COLLEGE OF WISCONSIN
MENTOR GREATER MILWAUKEE
MERCADERA
MGIC
MICHAEL BEST
MIDWEST BOOKKEEPING & TAX SOUTIONS
MILWAUKEE AREA TECHNICAL COLLEGE
MILWAUKEE BREWERS
MILWAUKEE BUCKS
MILWAUKEE CENTER FOR INDEPENDENCE
MILWAUKEE COUNTY
MILWAUKEE INSTITUTE OF ART & DESIGN (MIAD)
MILWAUKEE PUBLIC MUSEUM
MOLSONCOORS
MORR EVENTS
MOUNT MARY UNIVERSITY
NATIVITY JESUIT ACADEMY
NLARA DESIGNS
NORTH STAR RESOURCE GROUP
NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL
NOUN PHOTOGRAPHY
OLD NATIONAL BANK
PALANTE VISUALS
PATRICK CHAVES PHOTOGRAPHY
PENFIELD CHILDREN'S CENTER
HPLETHORA TRADING LLC
POTAWATOMI CASINO HOTEL
PROFESSIONAL DIMENSIONS
RADIO MILWAUKEE
REINHART
ROCKWELL AUTOMATION
SAGE TALENT CONSULTING
SAMER GHANI
SCREAMIN SICILIAN
SECUREFUTURES
SMART SPACES LLC
SOJOURNER FAMILY PEACE CENTER
SOURCETEN
STOLZMAN CONSULTING
STONE CREEK COFFEE
UNITED COMMUNITY CENTER
UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN MILWAUKEE
UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN PARKSIDE
UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN WHITEWATER
UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF MILWAUKEE
US BANK
UW CREDIT UNION
VISIT MILWAUKEE
VIZANCE
VON BRIESEN & ROPER, S C
WANTABLE CAFÉ
WATERSTONE BANK
WE ENERGIES
WE ENERGIES FOUNDATION
WISCONSIN CENTER DISTRICT
WISCONSIN LUTHERAN COLLEGE
WISCONSIN POLICY FORUM
WWBIC
ZURN ELKAY
Somos HPGM
