HEATHER THOMAS FLORES

At Mount Mary University, we are creating the next generation of strong and curious women. Women like Heather, an International Studies student who took Mount Mary’s core value of social justice to heart and—after studying abroad in Latin America—resolved to do something to help the underserved population of Hispanic women here in Milwaukee.

“Female Hispanics are often unlikely to seek out better opportunities for themselves,” says Heather, “because they’re generally so family oriented. So I decided it was important for Mount Mary to have a chapter of Hispanic Professionals of Greater Milwaukee on campus.”

The student chapter of HPGM Heather founded is focused on creating career opportunities for her fellow Hispanic students and connecting them with area business professionals through various networking get-togethers, lectures, and events. The chapter launched the spring semester of 2015 and is already off to a strong start. 

“Mount Mary has helped me gain confidence,” says Heather. “Being here has given me the sense that I really can do this, I know what I’m doing, I make a difference in the world, and I’m an important part of how this world works.

“I do have something important to say,” says Heather. “And now, with HPGM, it’s all about forging the way for other Hispanic students and making a difference in their lives. We’re doing something important here.”

Heather is building a legacy for young Hispanic women attending MMU. Her message: Get involved, and work hard toward achieving your goals so you can be successful upon graduation. Since her graduation in December 2015, Heather has secured a grant to purchase sewing machines for a co-op in Venezuela. She looks forward to traveling and assisting the co-op with their small business ventures.

Or you can always follow Heather’s bold example and realize that even as a student, Mount Mary offers you the opportunity to be successful every day. There’s no need to wait for your diploma to make a success of your life.

Here’s to the bold.