ABSTRACT
Purpose. Latino/a individuals continue to be underrepresented in senior and executiveleadership roles within the health care industry, even as their presence in the United
States workforce continues to grow. The purpose of this study was to better understand
the lived experiences of Latino/a health care professionals who aspire to leadership
positions and to explore how their cultural values and backgrounds influence their
leadership journeys.
Theoretical Framework. This study was guided by the cultural mentorship model andsocial capital theory. Together, these frameworks highlight the importance of
relationships, access to networks, and culturally grounded values—such as familismo and
personalismo—in shaping how individuals navigate leadership pathways.
Methodology. This qualitative study used testimonios to center the voices and livedexperiences of seven Latino/a health care professionals working across different areas of
the field. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and analyzed through
coding and thematic analysis to identify shared patterns and experiences.
Findings and Conclusion. Seven themes emerged: heritage values, inequality anddiscrimination, liderazgo, mentorship, sponsorship, ni de aquí ni de allá, and
representation. The findings show that mentorship and sponsorship play an important role
in building confidence, guidance, and a sense of belonging. However, access to these
opportunities is often limited. Participants described navigating systemic barriers,
unequal expectations, and tensions tied to their cultural identities, often relying on
informal relationships to move forward. These experiences highlight both the challenges
Latino/a professionals face and the cultural strengths they bring to leadership.
Recommendations. Increasing Latino/a representation in health care leadership requiresmore than individual effort. Organizations must take intentional steps to create more
equitable systems by expanding access to mentorship and sponsorship and developing
leadership programs that are culturally responsive. Creating environments where
individuals feel seen, supported, and valued is essential for meaningful and lasting
change.
- From Barriers to Belonging: Exploring Mentorship and Leadership Growth for Latino/a Healthcare Professionals
- Alberto Venegas
- Rich Whitney (Advisor)Richard T Rodriguez (Committee Member)Adel Syed (Committee Member)
- LaFetra College of Education; University of La Verne; Doctor of Education
- Doctor of Education, University of La Verne
- University of La Verne
- 991004382102506311
- LaFetra College of Education
- English
- Dissertation