Latina Entrepreneurs Take Center Stage in Colorado Springs with the LATINA Style Business Series

By Gloria Romano-Barrera 

On Friday, August 22, 2025, over 200 Latina entrepreneurs, professionals, community leaders, and veterans gathered at the ENT Center for the Arts at the University of Colorado, Colorado Springs (UCCS) for a day of inspiration, empowerment, and innovation. Hosted by LATINA Style, Inc., the nation’s leading organization supporting Latina professionals and business owners, the event was themed: “Artistry & Empowerment: Nurturing LATINA Entrepreneurs to Inspire, Innovate, and Thrive.”  

Presented in collaboration with UCCS, the Colorado Springs Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, and Nationwide as the presenting sponsor, the event highlighted the unique journeys and creative strengths of Latina entrepreneurs across industries—from craft brewing to childcare, wellness, education, and financial services.  

The morning began with warm welcomes and networking over breakfast, as attendees gathered in Chapman Hall—eager to exchange ideas and inspiration.  

Robert E. Bard, President & CEO, LATINA Style, Inc., set the tone for the day as he provided welcoming remarks. Serving as Mistress of Ceremonies was Linda R. Urrutia-Varhall, Maj Gen (USAF, Ret), whose presence brought grace to the stage.  

Other distinguished speakers included Jennifer Sobanet, EdD, Chancellor, UCCS; Joe V. Aldaz, Jr., Lt. Col (USAF, Ret), President & CEO, Colorado Springs Hispanic Chamber of Commerce; Yemi Mobolade, Mayor, Colorado Springs; and Mike Richard, Sr. AVP, Reinsurance Underwriting – Alternative Ventures at Nationwide.  

Each speaker offered insights on the importance of empowering Latina entrepreneurs—not just as a business imperative, but as a cultural and economic priority for the future.  

The first panel, “Rooted in Vision: Latina Entrepreneurs on Launching Creative Ventures,” featured a powerhouse lineup of Latina founders who have transformed personal passion into successful ventures. Moderated by Maritza Aguilera, Co-Founder, Sophisticated Events, the session explored authenticity, heritage, and the business of creativity. 

Panelists included Jessica Fierro, Owner, Atrevida Beer Co.; Jackie Lujan, CEO, The Lighthouse Early Care and Education; and Jackie Bouvier, CEO, Bouvier Co.  

Each entrepreneur spoke candidly about the challenges of launching a business rooted in culture—navigating identity, innovation, and sustainability—while staying true to themselves.  

The conversation shifted to financing in session 2, “Funding Your Dreams: Capital Strategies for Latina Entrepreneurs,” where panelists tackled the often- complex world of funding for Latina-led ventures. Moderated by Leanne Duran, Chief Risk Officer, ENT Credit Union, the panelists unpacked strategies for grants, loans, and community investment.  

Speakers included Gracia Medina, Business Navigator, Colorado Enterprise Fund; Rocio Scott, Business Access Advisor, U.S. Bank; and Stephanie Abeyta, Manager of Policy & Procedure, ENT Credit Union.  

Their key message: access to capital is not a privilege—it’s a right. And Latina entrepreneurs deserve tools, mentorship, and support to unlock it.  

The energy continued with a spirited Nationwide Move & Groove session led by Latisha Hardy, energizing attendees for a lunch and networking break sponsored by Nationwide. Conversations flowed as connections deepened and ideas took shape over shared meals and mission-driven dialogue.  

The afternoon’s fireside chat offered a unique and intimate look at leadership through the lens of personal legacy. Lupita Colmenero, COO, LATINA Style and founder of Parents Step Ahead, sat down with Zulay Henao, entrepreneur, actress, and CEO. The two discussed the intersection of Latina identity, creative passion, and community responsibility in shaping their life’s work.  

One of the most moving sessions of the day focused on Latina veteran entrepreneurs, bridging service and startup. The third session, “Creative Courage: Empowering Women Veteran Entrepreneurs,” was moderated by Lida Citroen, CEO of LIDA360. The session spotlighted resilience and reinvention. 

Panelists included Linda R. Urrutia-Varhall, Maj Gen (USAF, Ret); Andresita T. Gonzales, Co-Founder/CEO, Pro-terpore & The De La Vega Foundation; and Richard Fierro, Co-owner, Atrevida Beer Co. and USSPACECOM Joint Training Manager.  

Their stories of transformation from military leadership to creative enterprise underscored a theme of the day: courage fuels innovation.  

A second fireside chat, titled “The Power of Wellness and Community: Fueling Creative Success,” explored the softer—but essential—side of entrepreneurship. Panelists emphasized self-care, mental health, and community connection as foundational elements of business longevity.  

Featured speakers included Julissa Soto, CEO & Founder, Latino Health Equity Consulting, and Colleen B. Daywalt, VP, Government Programs, Physician Health Partners.  

Their conversation reminded attendees that building a business doesn’t have to mean burning out—that community is not only a support system, but a competitive advantage.  

The day closed with a heartfelt awards presentation, honoring those who have not only succeeded in business but also elevated others along the way. Congratulations to the following awardees. Latina Entrepreneur of the Year, Dr. Jennifer M. Hawkins; Community awardee, Joe V. Aldaz, Jr., Lt. Col (USAF, Ret); and Continued Mission awardee Linda R. Urrutia-Varhall, Maj Gen (USAF, Ret).  

With closing remarks from Robert E. Bard, the event wrapped up with a standing ovation for the entrepreneurs, mentors, and allies who continue to uplift and empower Latinas in business.  

Thank you to our partners and sponsors: Nationwide, Wells Fargo, US Bank, UCCS, Colorado Springs Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Ent Credit  

Union, Vectra Bank Colorado, Colorado Springs Chamber & EDC, The Colorado Trust, El Paso County, Huntington Bank, and El Pomar Foundation.