National Hispana Leadership Institute

Description

To address the disparity of representation of Latinas in leadership positions NHLI, a national 501(c)(3) organization based in Washington, D.C., was created in 1987 in response to the U.S. Department of Labor's Glass Ceiling Initiative. This seminal study found that while minorities and women were making substantial gains in entering the workforce, they were not equally represented at the mid- and senior-levels of management in government or corporate sectors. The report found that Latinas were also significantly underrepresented on corporate boards and in the nonprofit and political arenas.

The NHLI is the only national leadership development program in the United States focused on future Latina leaders. The Institute's goals include:

• Ensuring that Hispanic women are in leadership positions and have the access and power to influence public policy and shape an equitable and humane society.
• Enhancing and developing leadership abilities among Hispanic women whose commitment, contribution and dedication will help ensure a vibrant and sustainable future for the United States.
  Providing visible role models and mentors for Hispanic women leaders.
  Improving services provided to the Hispanic community by local, state and national organizations.