Hispanic Dental Association Executive and Leadership Team

Luis Yepes, the Inmedite President Hispanic Dental Association, directs the organization's strategic initiatives and operational oversight. Yepes guides the association's mission to enhance oral health outcomes for Hispanic and underserved communities, ensuring alignment with the core values of advocacy and representation. This leadership role involves fostering collaboration among stakeholders and driving programs that support the dental profession. Yepes oversees the implementation of key organizational goals, focusing on expanding the HDA's reach and impact. The president's responsibilities include representing the association in high-level discussions and ensuring the effective execution of its strategic plan. Luis Yepes actively promotes initiatives aimed at increasing minority representation in dentistry, a critical component of the HDA's long-term vision. This involves cultivating partnerships and championing the association's educational resources.

Maria Leal, the Founder & President & Pennsylvania Hispanic Dental Chapter Professional, spearheads the establishment and growth of the Pennsylvania chapter while contributing to broader organizational leadership. Leal's foundational role in establishing the HDA underscores a deep commitment to its mission of improving oral health and advocating for minority representation in dentistry. This dual focus allows for localized impact within Pennsylvania while informing national strategies. Leal drives chapter-specific programs and member engagement, ensuring resources reach intended communities effectively. The founder's vision guides the development of mentorship opportunities and educational outreach. Maria Leal's leadership ensures the Pennsylvania chapter actively supports dental professionals, students, and community members, reinforcing the HDA's commitment to underserved populations. This comprehensive approach solidifies the organization's presence and influence.

Alejandro Banda, the President, Ut Health Chapter (SAN Antonio), leads the San Antonio chapter's operations and community engagement initiatives. Banda directs efforts to enhance oral and overall health outcomes for Hispanic and underserved populations within the San Antonio region. This involves coordinating local chapter activities that align with the Hispanic Dental Association's national objectives. The chapter president oversees the promotion of the BOLD program, encouraging under-represented minorities to pursue dental careers through mentorship and grants. Alejandro Banda ensures the chapter effectively disseminates resources to dental professionals, students, and community members. This leadership role focuses on building strong local networks and fostering a supportive environment for dental education and practice. Banda's work directly contributes to increasing minority representation in the dental profession.

Katherine Velasco, the President, Hda Florida Chapter Inmediate (North), directs the strategic operations and member services for the northern Florida chapter. Velasco champions the Hispanic Dental Association's mission to improve oral health for Hispanic and underserved communities throughout the region. This leadership position involves overseeing chapter-specific programs designed to support dental professionals, students, and community members. Velasco drives initiatives that encourage minority representation in the dental field, aligning with the HDA's broader advocacy goals. The chapter president ensures effective implementation of resources, including mentorship and grant opportunities like the BOLD program. Katherine Velasco's focus is on expanding the chapter's reach and impact, fostering a strong network within Florida. This role is critical for delivering localized support and advancing the association's objectives.