Coors Light Names Alberto Ávalos Lĺder of the Year

“Alberto Ávalos is an outstanding individual, this is a well-deserved recognition from his peers and community,” said Alberto Senior, national Latino community efforts lead at MillerCoors. “We are excited to recognize Alberto for his commitment and achievements toward making technology more accessible to Latino communities in Los Angeles.”

Ávalos was among 12 outstanding Latino leaders nominated by nonprofit organizations for their leadership. Ávalos was nominated by HHF and is the nonprofit’s Innovation and Technology Program Manager. Through nonprofit partnerships, signature programs and long-term investments that support economic development, Coors Light is helping to build stronger communities for everyone.

Ávalos was raised in the Boyle Heights neighborhood of Los Angeles and, after graduating with a bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of California, Santa Barbara, he spent time in the Bay Area working on civic innovation. His education and early professional work revealed an opportunity gap in technology for Latinos, largely due to the lack of access and meaningful computer science education. This insight led Ávalos to launch Coding Jam, an interactive introduction to computer science in his hometown, which is 90 percent Latino. Ávalos partnered with HHF and was able to secure a venue with computers, recruit Latino Google employees for support and host more than 50 neighborhood students at their first workshop.

“It is an honor to be chosen to represent the Hispanic Heritage Foundation as the 2016 Coors Light Líder of the Year,” said Ávalos. “Coors Light has a strong track record of commitment to investing in the professional development of emerging Latino leaders. I am excited to use the $25,000 grant to help my community create economic empowerment and influence through technology.”

Since 2006, the Coors Light Líderes program has recognized and highlighted the achievements of emerging Latino leaders. After 12 finalists are chosen by an expert panel, the winner is selected through an online voting competition that is supported by a national advertising campaign and robust community outreach. The Coors Light Líderes program offers up-and-coming Latino professionals leadership tools, resources, and networking opportunities. Past Líderes of the Year have developed leadership programs in the areas of education, arts, music, and professional development. Join the conversation at CoorsLightLideres.com, www.facebook.com/CoorsLightLideres, LinkedIn and on Twitter using @coorslightlider.