10/08/2026
This Hispanic Heritage Month, weโre celebrating the strength, culture, history and contributions of Hispanic communities across Washingtonโand reflecting on why representation matters.
Junior Achievement of Washington is a statewide organization serving young people and communities with different backgrounds, cultures, experiences and aspirations. Our organization should reflect the communities we serve. That means having staff and board members who bring diverse lived experiences, perspectives and connections to the work we do.
Representation matters because young people deserve to see themselves reflected in the people leading, teaching, volunteering and investing in their future. It also makes JA stronger, helping us listen better, build trust and ensure our programs and partnerships are relevant to the communities we serve.
This month, we proudly honor the Hispanic members of JA's community, including board members Esther Richmond, Gilbert Alvarez, and Julissa McWashington; President & CEO Natalie Vega O'Neil; and members of our Experiential Learning team Daniel Hernandes and Shelly Torres. Alongside our educators, volunteers, partners, families, and students, their contributions help create brighter futures for young people across Washington.