Reflections on National Hispanic Heritage Month

National Hispanic Heritage Month provides an opportunity to celebrate and honor the histories, cultures, and contributions of the Hispanic and Latin American communities. At ASPR, we are proud of the diverse heritage and unique perspectives that our Hispanic and Latin American colleagues bring to our mission of strengthening community resilience. In celebration, we are spotlighting a few members of Team ASPR as they reflect on what this month means to them, highlighting the invaluable role their dedication and cultural insights play in supporting communities across the nation.

Biologist, BARDA

Carol Diaz-Diaz
"I understand different traditions and social dynamics and that awareness helps me serve different communities more effectively."

Senior Health Scientist / Program Officer, BARDA

Efrain Garcia
"My heritage has provided me with an additional perspective on the unique needs of disadvantaged communities, which can often become marginalized or disenfranchised during emergencies."

Deputy National Coordinator, Health & Social Services Recovery Support Function
Director, Division of Recovery Operations

CDR Roberto Garza
"The Mexican culture is community based. We look out for each other and that’s the foundation for my commitment to public service."

Emergency Management Specialist, Strategic National Stockpile

Angela Henderson
"Growing up in Texas, I was surrounded by a strong sense of community and cultural values that emphasized the importance of family, respect, and togetherness."

Senior Advisor, Immediate Office

Jessica Porras
"My current work impacts all Americans, but I do think about access and ensuring our services and resources reach all communities by considering things like cultural competence, language access, and equity."

Division of Training, Program Analyst, National Disaster Medical System

Carilyn Garcia
"My heritage gives me a unique perspective that makes me embrace diversity. As Puerto Rican, I grew up appreciating diversity."

Director, Infrastructure Analysis & Risk Mitigation Division, Center for Preparedness

Jose Velasco
"My Hispanic/Latino heritage shapes how I serve the public and provides a unique perspective that enhances my contributions."

Logistics Management Specialist, Strategic National Stockpile

Anthony Nanes
"Many of the emergency responses that I have been a part of in the SNS were large-scale and impacted many different communities, including the Latino/Hispanic communities."

Lead Project Officer, Medical Reserve Corps

Claudia Román-Stolte
"My experiences have taught me the value of empathy, adaptability, and the need to consider the varied social, cultural, and economic factors that influence people's lives."

Director, Resource Liaison Program, Strategic National Stockpile

Natalie Sanchez
"Together, my unique experiences and perspective as a firsthand witness to the power of public health work has contributed deeply as to why I chose to trailblaze a career in public service."

Facilities Operation Specialist, Center for Administration

Balmore Lemus
"As an immigrant, I can see that each organization within the US Government has a huge impact to the entire country, and all around the globe."

Preparedness Advisor, Strategic National Stockpile

Tomas Widemond
"It’s an honor to contribute to our mission while representing my community, and I hope it serves as an inspiration to others."