Eight women will be honored for their notable accomplishments in McAllen.

The McAllen Chamber of Commerce is hosting its annual Legendary McAllen Women’s Luncheon on Friday, March 22, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the McAllen Convention Center Ballroom located at 700 Convention Center Blvd. in McAllen. The Chamber invites our community to join us as we honor eight trailblazing women.

“The McAllen Chamber is thrilled to organize this special event dedicated to celebrating the remarkable achievements of women whose leadership has left an enduring impact on our community,” said McAllen Chamber CEO Elizabeth Suarez.  “This event aims at providing a unique platform for fostering leadership and mentorship in McAllen.”

“The Legendary McAllen Women’s Luncheon offers an opportunity to showcase the achievements and leadership of women who have made a lasting mark on McAllen,” said McAllen Chamber Chairman of the Board Jim Darling.  “By organizing such an event, the Chamber demonstrates its commitment to fostering a culture of appreciation and acknowledgment for the diverse and influential roles women play in shaping our city.”

This year, the Chamber will be honoring eight women who represent diverse industries.  From   their   contributions   to   business, finance, science, education   and   international relations, these women exemplify leadership and they have become a source of pride and inspiration for the community.   At the event, honorees will each have a moment to share their experiences with guests.  The distinguished honorees include:

Lorena Castillo, CPA | Business & Finance

Negrete & Castillo, LLP

2023 McAllen Chamber of Commerce Woman of the Year

While Lorena holds the esteemed position of Certified Public Accountant and partner at Negrete & Castillo, LLP, she places a paramount emphasis on her role in community service. This commitment to societal betterment is seamlessly integrated into her daily life, reflecting her dedication beyond her professional responsibilities.  With over 15 years of dedicated service on the Affordable Homes of South Texas, Inc. (AHSTI) Board, Lorena passionately recounts the joy of witnessing children step into their family’s first home, complete with a backyard.  She attributes the transformative power of providing keys to a home as unlocking a promising future for families across South Texas, crediting the AHSTI Team for their pivotal role.

Gloria Gracia | Business, Marketing & International Relations

Co-founder and Owner of De Shopping Magazine

In the realm of business, Gloria believes leadership transcends mere team management and decision-making. It encompasses the art of inspiring others, conveying a passion for one’s work, and fostering an environment of support and mutual growth. She exemplifies these indispensable qualities and has built a diverse business empire, ranging from her magazine De Shopping to International Billboards, a billboard business, and an industrial cleaning service. Furthermore, she proudly collaborates with her brother on “Mexico Industry,” focusing on promoting local businesses. Gloria demonstrates valuable perspectives on leadership, community engagement, and the importance of maintaining a harmonious balance between professional responsibilities and personal life.

Francy Ann Jones | Hospitality & Tourism

Director, Marketing & Public Relations at Castle Hospitality

Francy’s excellence in hospitality is rooted in her exceptional people skills, fearlessly navigating conversations, making cold calls, and actively pursuing business opportunities.  As a Director of Marketing & Public Relations overseeing eight locations in Texas, she understands that the success of marketing initiatives hinges on each team member’s performance. A notable leadership trait for Francy is the importance of respect.  She firmly advocates that leaders must earn respect and likability.  According to her, a true leader is someone who not only commands respect but also serves as a mentor, emphasizing the role of teaching and guiding others.

Dr. Lynda L. Laurin | Business, Marketing & Public Relations

Founder/CEO, Pollux Castor Creative

As the Assistant National Team Coach for Team USA Taekwondo since 2013, Dr. Lynda L. Laurin embodies a transformative leadership style. Her focus is on empowering the team to achieve their goals, emphasizing their aspirations over her own. With expertise in leading a company, identifying and training athletes and coaches for elite performance, and coaching for Team USA, Dr. Laurin underscores the significance of understanding the nuances differentiating mere milliseconds and the crucial elements of observation, orientation, and decision-making speed. Central to success, she emphasizes the need for a robust support system fostering an inherent belief in oneself.

Dr. Karen Lozano | Science & Education

University of Texas-Rio Grande Valley

Julia Beecherl Endowed Professor of Mechanical Engineering

Founding Director of the Nanotechnology Center and

PhD. Program in Material Science & Engineering

The distinguished Dr. Karen Lozano, a globally renowned mechanical engineer, has not only made an indelible mark in the field of materials science and engineering but has also challenged gender barriers in a traditionally male-dominated world.  As the Director of the Materials Science and Engineering PhD. Program at UTRGV and the Director of the Nanotechnology Center, Dr. Lozano has proven to be a visionary leader inspiring other, especially women, to follow in her footsteps.  Her focus on creating an inclusive and collaborative work environment has resulted in a 100% completion rate in the doctoral program, significantly surpassing the national average.

Ann Maddox Moore+ | Pioneer for Arts & Culture in McAllen

Pioneer for Arts & Culture in McAllen

In the mid-1960s, Ann and fellow League members formed a committee to establish an art museum in McAllen. This led to the creation of the McAllen International Museum (now the International Museum of Art and Science).  Ann’s love for IMAS has never wavered. She donated most of her Latin American folk-art collection to the Museum, now mostly housed in a permanent exhibit at the Quinta Mazatlán World Birding Center.  Her daughter Murray shared that Ann has been acknowledged for her profound understanding of the human spirit, she has fostered an enduring connection with the world and those around us.  To her, community is synonymous with family, and her guiding principle echoes her belief in the importance of mutual care.

Rosario Ovando Castro | Advocacy & Diplomatic Service

Consul – Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Guatemala in McAllen

Rosario has been a pioneer and advocate for female empowerment. She has left a significant mark and graciously shares her experiences and perspectives. As a leader, her approach is distinctively focused on inspiring confidence, assisting her team, and setting an exemplary standard. She emphasizes the significance of communication, particularly among women in the workplace. At work, she and her team specialize in solving problems and assisting fellow nationals – focusing on protection, visiting detained individuals, searching for missing persons and nationals who pass away at the border. Rosario strongly believes in the significance of interculturality and how her work contributes to enriching the community.

Laura Perera | Transportation

Pioneer for International Ground Transportation Network in McAllen

Laura spearheaded the implementation of a premier bus transportation system, elevating travel standards between McAllen and major destinations such as Houston, Dallas, and San Antonio. Later, she established travel routes connecting Rio Grande Valley residents to Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina, and then transportation for all RGV residents to Monterrey, NL Mexico. Her greatest advice to women is to continue striving for more – there is always more you can do. Women must take risks to thrive in a predominantly male-oriented world. Laura didn’t retire until 85 years of age, a testament to her unwavering dedication.

To reserve your spot at the event or obtain further details, please contact Gerry Garcia at the McAllen Chamber of Commerce at 956-682-2871 or by email at ggarcia@mcallenchamber.com.