Leadership

Our Board

Executive Committee
Emilio Santos

Emilo Santos

Chairman

Emilio is a servant of God and community. He is a father, banker, artist, and founder of the award-winning Mariachi 7 Leguas. He serves as NHPO Chairman and supports organizations including CASA of Hidalgo County and the City of McAllen Planning & Zoning Board. 

Senior Business Specialist · Lone Star National Bank
Tom Castenda

Tom Castaneda

Vice Chairman

Tom Castañeda is a marketing executive, creative storyteller, and award-winning journalist serving as System Director of Marketing and Public Relations for South Texas Health System. A Rio Grande Valley native, he brings experience in broadcast journalism, media, retail, and community engagement to his work across STHS’s 12 facilities. Tom also serves in leadership roles with the RGV Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, NHPO RGV, and the American Advertising Federation Rio Grande Valley.

South Texas Health System
Mary Saenz (1)

Mary Saenz

Treasurer

Bio coming soon.

Toshiba Business Solutions
Jennifer Lincoln (2)

Jennifer Lincoln

Secretary

Jennifer is passionate about serving people, building authentic relationships, and creating meaningful opportunities that connect people and make a positive impact in our community.

Business Development · SealMaster South Texas
Committee Chairs & Board Members
Julian

Julian Ayala

Board Member

Julian is a real estate professional with a background in real estate, construction, and entrepreneurship. His work focuses on helping clients navigate complex transactions while developing long-term professional relationships.

Realtor
Brenda Gomez (1)

Brenda Gomez

Membership Co-Chair

Brenda is an entrepreneur, insurance professional, and community advocate with nearly two decades of experience in insurance and financial services. Community involvement has always been part of her journey as a business owner. Brenda's passion is being a trusted resource for her clients while making a positive impact across the Valley.

Agency Owner · Brenda Gomez Insurance Agency – Allstate
Laura Gonzalez (1)

Laura Gonzalez

Membership Co-Chair

Laura is dedicated to serving her community through thoughtful connections across the RGV. She has been in Pharmaceutical Sales for over 25 years, cultivating professional relationships across the medical community. Laura is passionate about supporting local causes through volunteering with Moody Clinic, Texas Oncology, and local animal shelters.

Executive Sales Rep · Bristol Myers Squibb
Veronica Guzman (1)

Veronica Guzman, RN, BSN

Board Member

Veronica has been a registered nurse for over 30 years, specializing in cardiology and peripheral vascular disease. She is dedicated to helping NHPO continue supporting our community by providing scholarships and funding for higher education.

Registered Nurse · South Texas Health System Edinburg
Murphy

Murphy Jeffries

Events Chair

Murphy is a Media professional of linear and digital concepts at Nexstar. He provides expert consultation of marketing strategies to help profit growth and exposure for local businesses. Hobbies include drones, musical instruments and photography.  

Nexstar NBC24/CBS4
Gilbert

Gilbert Perez

Education Chair

Gilbert is a U.S. Army veteran and local business owner, bringing more than 20 years of leadership, service, and entrepreneurship to the RGV. As a board member of NHPO, Gilbert is committed to strengthening professional relationships, encouraging leadership, and helping advance Hispanic professionals and entrepreneurs throughout South Texas.

Owner · Fresh Coat Painters
Violeta Perez

Violet Perez

Events Chair

Bio coming soon.

Plains Capital Bank
Eric

Eric Vargas

Audio Chair

Bio coming soon.

Employer & title coming soon.
Johana

Johana Zarate

Marketing Chair

Bio coming soon.

The Valley Social Co.