Recap: 2017 Catalyst Austin Event
by Vianni Busquets / Photos by Tomas Segura
“We build products to connect the world, which means we need a team that understands and reflects many different communities, backgrounds, and cultures,” said Jeanine Henry, global manager of business integrity for Facebook, to an audience of over fifty members of The Alumni Society during the Catalyst Austin event held on April 27.
Henry, a passionate advocate for diversity and inclusion, was a featured speaker at the Facebook-sponsored event, which brought together Latino alumni from top-tier universities and executives from a variety of sectors. Members traveled from near and far, including San Antonio, Dallas, and Houston to convene for a lively networking reception under the stars at the beautiful Hotel Saint Cecilia in Austin.
Victor Arias, senior client partner at Korn Ferry and esteemed advisory board member for The Alumni Society, kicked off the remarks and shared insights into the origins of The Alumni Society and, more importantly, where it’s going. “The thought was to form a group of Latino alums from elite colleges and universities to create an opportunity to network and empower our community,” Arias said. “We have a big responsibility to make sure that we can create sustainable change for our community.”
The Alumni Society executive director Sergio Fernández also spoke, welcoming the evening’s guests and emphasizing the organization’s goal to become an indispensable partner to both members and corporate partners. “Our commitment to you is to harness the power and potential of this network through four key drivers,” Fernández said. “Through our networking opportunities at exclusive events, access via our members, partner and community groups, media and technology, and by engaging and transforming our communities.”
Additional photos from the 2017 Catalyst Austin event can be found on our Facebook page.
