First Ever Woman Chief Executive Officer Tapped to Drive Key Hispanic Organization – The Hassler Era. Lourdes Hassler gives up successful 20 year career as executive in Latin Sales and Marketing for American Airlines to head National Society of Hispanic MBAs

“Lourdes Hassler, the new and first-ever woman Chief Executive Officer for the National Society of Hispanic MBAs (NSHMBA) is more than a role model for her employees and associates – she personifies the drive and determination that this influential organization represents.

She is a mother of two wonderful children, holds a Marketing Degree from California State University at Northridge, and is currently enrolled in the Executive MBA program at Texas Christian University, from which she will graduate in May 2006. In fact, anyone receiving an invitation to her upcoming graduation has been asked that in lieu of graduation gifts, donations be made to NSHMBA’s scholarship fund. All this while guiding one of the premier Hispanic organizations in the country.

Ms. Hassler left behind a successful 20 year career as the Director of Latin Sales and Marketing for one of the nation’s largest airlines to take on the Chief Executive Officer position at NSHMBA – a national society that is dedicated to fostering Hispanic leadership through graduate management education and professional development in order to improve society.

“I’ve had over 24 years at the Fortune 500 level. But, I’ve always had a quest for knowledge and understanding. I believe that our mission to foster Hispanic leadership through education makes sense for our communities and for corporate America,” said Hassler.

Hassler adds, “For NSHMBA, the “Hassler” era is about building an institution that is recognized for its merit and value. I’m committed to our strategic direction and am determined to build a disciplined, diverse, and adaptive talent management process that ensures NSHMBA has talented resources deployed to promote education, professional development, innovation, and growth.” With the economic and cultural impact Hispanics are gaining, corporate America relies significantly on NSHMBA to provide effective and high-caliber professionals.

NSHMBA currently serves 7,644 members in 29 chapters located across the country and Puerto Rico. Just in the last year, the organization’s membership has shown an increase of 7.63 percent; therefore illustrating the ambition and determination of this young and dynamic group of people. As membership increases, so do the potential number of Hispanic women following in her footsteps. Hassler stated, “Our female membership is growing significantly and that’s the beauty of it all. I look at this as a testimony to (1) our Latina community being aware on the benefits associated with education and (2) a diverse work force that is powerful.”

Hassler joins Barbara Thomas at the National Black MBA Association and Kimberly Brown at the National Association of Women MBAs as leaders of national diversity-oriented MBA organizations.

NSHMBA is steadfast in providing professional development, access, and leadership positioning. As one of their signature events, the Annual Hispanic Executive Summit presents an opportunity for corporate America and NSHMBA to capitalize on the talent pool building solid business relationships. This summit is taking place at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in New York City, April 27 through 29, and the 17th Annual Conference and Career Expo being held in Cincinnati, Ohio October 26 through 28, 2006.”

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