Given the increasingly multicultural nature of our community, nonprofit agencies and civic commissions need seasoned leaders with experience navigating complex challenges.

As a result, MLP considers Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DE&I) a core competency of leadership. As leaders, it is our duty to set the standard by example because that’s what leaders do. Embracing these principles enables leaders to foster creation of equitable and inclusive environments, policies and practices as they do their important work for our community.

Diversity Graphic

Driven by our values, MLP committed to creating change with the goal of justice for all. We recognized that no one person or organization can solve all of these complex issues. We conducted a DE&I survey to obtain feedback from all our graduates. We organized a diverse group of staff members, board members, and MLP graduates to begin listening to and understanding the voices of the victims of injustice. Together, they are helping MLP stay true to the commitment to bring about the cultural and tactical changes necessary.

Organizational and Cultural Integration and Accountability Team


Rosemary Puente

Class IX (2013)

Co-Chair

Otis "Scotty" Scott

Class XVI (2020)

Co-Chair

Committee Members

Rita Phillip
Susan Mustacchio
Berta Rodriguez
Angie Salinas
Mary Stefl
Pia Lomax
Michelle Harper

MLP Marketing Team


Mary Ann Beach

Class XVI (2020)

Co-Chair

Mike Gilliam

Class XV (2019)

Co-Chair

Committee Members

Bryan Chase
Sylvia Reyna
Ann Stevens
Terri Woods

MLP DEI Training Team


Vanessa J. Douglas

Class XV (2019)

Co-Chair

Committee Members

Arturo Burgueno
Cynthia Rocha

MLP Recruiting, Application and Selection Team


David Patrick

Class II (2006)

Co-Chair

JC Clapsaddle

Class XVI (2020)

Co-Chair

Committee Members

Jo Ann Andera
Sandra Banks Dance
Mike Gilliam
Paul Hoskins
Sylvia Reyna
Valerie Wilson