SAN ANTONIO (March 9, 2021) – Yesterday the Alexander Briseño Leadership Development Program (ABLDP) announced the release of applications for their 2021 class. With the start of a new year under new leadership, this year’s cohort is excited to start recruiting future San Antonio leaders to make their mark and develop invaluable skills.

ABLDP’s mission is to enrich leadership and professional development using strategic planning, change management, teamwork, sustainability, and civic engagement. Mr. Alexander Briseño, the former City Manager after whom the program is named, is celebrating 20 years of retirement while his program, ran by the San Antonio Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (SAHCC), has helped develop countless leaders in our community since its inception 20 years ago.

“The Alexander Briseño Leadership Development Program develops professional skills and challenges the class to be innovative and take action to benefit our entire community,” said Michelle Martinez, SAHCC Leadership Committee Chair. “This is a symbolic year as we honor 20 years of the leadership program and the countless number of graduates who have been empowered by Mr. Briseño’s leadership principles.”

In the past, ABLDP has operated under a tri-chair model, however, a co-chair model has been implemented this year.

“This year, the 2021 cohort will get to channel their own personal and professional experiences coming out of some of the most transformational months our community has experienced. I am looking forward to seeing us together evolve our leadership skills and abilities to make an impact locally.” – Maria Nelson, 2021 ABLDP Co-Chair

ABLDP will kick off on a virtual platform, but the program hopes to meet in person with safety as a top priority, offering virtual options for those still interested in attending from home.

Prospective participants can access the online application through the SAHCC website, or if you know someone who would excel in ABLDP, you can nominate them here. Applications are due on March 26.

Those interested can learn more about ABLDP by attending an info session that will be held Wednesday, March 10^th at 10AM and Thursday, March 11^th at 12 PM via Zoom.

The 2021 ABLDP program is proud to be led by the following individuals:

2021 Leadership Committee Chair:

Michelle Martinez, Independent Communications Consultant

2021 ABLDP Co-Chairs:

Santiago Jaramillo, VIA Metropolitan Transit

Maria Nelson, The Nelson Group

2021 ABLDP Co-Chair Elects:

Terry Rawe, Nationwide

Blanca Maldonado, Freeman Coliseum and Expo Hall

2021 Steering Committee:

Gladys Hernandez

Simon Castillo

Karen Ivy

Matthew Loaiza

Rachel Brehm

Stacy Jones

Kristin Baer

Lori Alvarez

Courtnie Mercer

Roxy Rios

Delia Covo