HACR Welcomes Thomas Savino as New Board Chair to Enhance Hispanic Representation in Corporate America

HACR's New Chapter: Thomas Savino Takes the Helm as Board Chair

The Hispanic Association on Corporate Responsibility (HACR) has recently announced a significant leadership change within its Board of Directors. Thomas Savino, the current CEO of Prospanica, has been elected as the new chair of the board, a decision that reflects HACR's ongoing commitment to enhancing representation of Hispanics in Corporate America.

Taking effect on January 1, 2025, Savino's appointment marks the beginning of a two-year term during which he will spearhead initiatives aimed at promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within the corporate sector. Savino, who has been a part of HACR's board since 2015, has witnessed the evolving landscape of Hispanic involvement in business. He replaces Ramiro Cavazos, the President and CEO of the United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (USHCC), who has held the chair position since 2021. Under Cavazos's leadership, the board made significant strides in promoting HACR's mission.

Savino's Vision for HACR

As Savino takes on this pivotal role, he expressed his gratitude for the trust bestowed upon him. “I am deeply honored to serve as Chairman of the HACR board, especially at such a pivotal time for our mission,” he stated. His journey to the chair position has been marked by a deep commitment to the values and objectives that HACR stands for. He emphasized the importance of the unwavering support from former leaders and mentors in shaping his capabilities.

HACR, established in 1986, represents 13 national Hispanic organizations and is dedicated to advocating for the inclusion of Hispanics across various sectors, including employment, procurement, philanthropy, and governance. With Savino's leadership, the board aims to tackle the increasing opposition to diversity efforts, reinforcing the organization's critical role in pushing for systemic change.

A Team of Change

Joining Savino in the new executive committee are notable leaders in the Hispanic community. Delia de la Vara, currently the Senior Vice President for Advancement and External Affairs at UnidosUS, has been appointed as the vice chair. Dr. Juan Andrade, the President of the United States Hispanic Leadership Institute, will serve as the board secretary, while Marco Davis is set to take on the treasurer role.

HACR President and CEO Cid Wilson acknowledged the collective strength of the coalition’s board, emphasizing that it forms the foundation of HACR's impactful initiatives. He thanked outgoing chair Ramiro Cavazos for his exceptional leadership and expressed confidence in Savino's ability to lead the board into a new phase of growth.

The Road Ahead

The path forward is laden with challenges, but Savino is determined to navigate this terrain adeptly. He remarked, “While significant progress has been made, the road ahead is long, and the stakes are high.” The urgency of HACR's mission has never been clearer, especially in a climate where advocacy for Hispanic inclusion faces increasing challenges.

Savino's commitment to promoting Hispanic representation in Corporate America is driven by a strong belief in the organization's mission. He stated, “This is not a sprint but a marathon, and I'm committed to ensuring we stay the course and continue driving meaningful change.” His insight into the landscape of corporate advocacy and commitment to advancing Hispanic equity positions him as a crucial leader in this ongoing dialogue.

Through initiatives such as corporate leadership advancement programs and best-practice conferences, HACR aims to illuminate “The Power of Hispanic Inclusion” throughout Corporate America. As Savino takes the helm, the organization's mission is poised for revitalization, gearing up to face the challenges ahead and reaffirming its position as a trusted advocate among global corporate leaders.

In conclusion, Thomas Savino's election as board chair marks a pivotal moment for HACR. With seasoned leaders working collaboratively to dismantle barriers to diversity, equity, and inclusion, the organization is set to continue its vital work in advancing the Hispanic community within the corporate arena.