FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact

Christina Villarreal

Executive Director

c.villarreal@latinosintransit.org

Latinos In Transit Announces a Transformative Year of Impact in 2025

Annual Impact Report Presented to Board of Directors Highlights Growth, Innovation and Expanding National Reach

(Covina, CA) — [December 19, 2025] — Latinos In Transit (LIT), a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the advancement of professionals in the public transportation industry, proudly announces a year of significant growth and national impact as detailed in the newly released 2025 Annual Impact Report, presented to the board of directors by Executive Director Christina Villarreal.

The report reflects a year marked by expanded workforce development efforts, a refreshed brand identity, a renewed 2026–2028 Strategic Plan, and historic levels of engagement. In 2025, LIT served a record 20,560 individuals, strengthened its national presence, and delivered robust programming designed to support leadership development, career mobility, and professional growth across the industry.

A Year of Measurable Impact

Record Reach & Service Delivery

• 20,560 individuals served across programs, trainings, academies, and national events
  

• 3,131 participants engaged directly in LIT’s programming
  

• 17,429 individuals supported through direct communication and member services
  
  

Membership Growth & Engagement

With 604 paid members and more than 800 potential members, LIT’s expanding membership reflects increasing trust, relevance, and engagement across regions and agencies.

Expanded Workforce & Leadership Development

In 2025, LIT delivered its most comprehensive portfolio of professional development offerings to date, including:

• 8 webinars (630 participants)
  

• National in-person training sessions (155 participants)
  

• 35 Leadership Academy participants
  

• 12 Small Business Academy participants
  

• 22 mentors and mentees in LIT’s inaugural mentorship program
  

• $12,500 in scholarships awarded to 5 recipients
  

• Over 460 downloads of LIT’s resource toolkits and guidebooks
  

National Advocacy & Policy Engagement

LIT contributed to federal workforce and small business policy discussions, most notably through public comments that contributed to reforms of the CDL “Under the Hood” exam — a change benefitting more than 400,000 applicants annually nationwide. LIT’s advocacy was formally recognized in the notice of final disposition published in the Federal Register, marking a milestone in the organization’s policy engagement.

2025 National Events & Leadership Summit

In 2025, LIT expanded its national presence through regional mixers, conference engagements, and its most accessible Leadership Summit to date.

The 2025 Leadership Summit in Albuquerque, N.M., achieved several major milestones:

• 360 total registrations, reflecting strong national interest
  

• 226 in-person individual participants, representing agencies, private-sector
  partners, and students nationwide
  

• 30+ sponsors and industry partners supporting expanded programming
  

• First-ever full-day live stream, offered free of charge
  
  

For the first time in its history, LIT live streamed a full day of Summit programming nationwide at no cost, allowing industry professionals who were unable to attend in person to participate virtually. This expansion brought leadership sessions, workforce development conversations, and technical training panels to transit professionals across the U.S., significantly broadening access to the Summit experience.

This hybrid model marked a major advancement in LIT’s mission to expand access to professional development and support the national transit workforce.

“The accomplishments outlined in this year’s report reflect the collective dedication of our members, partners, and volunteers,” said Christina Villarreal, Executive Director of Latinos In Transit. “Serving more than 20,000 individuals, expanding our national programs, and contributing to meaningful policy discussions underscore the important role LIT plays in supporting workforce development and career advancement across the transit industry. 2025 was a year of measurable impact, and we look forward to building on this momentum.”

About Latinos In Transit

Latinos In Transit (LIT) is a nonprofit organization committed to advancing opportunities for professionals in the public transportation industry through workforce development, leadership training, mentorship, and education. LIT continues to expand its reach as it supports individuals and agencies working to build a skilled transit workforce.

Learn more at www.latinosintransit.org.

Link to 2025 Annual Impact Report

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

Contact

Christina Villarreal

Executive Director

c.villarreal@latinosintransit.org

LIT Concludes Inaugural Small Business Academy Pilot Program, Empowering Transit Industry Entrepreneurs

The academy welcomed 16 participants who demonstrated a strong commitment to professional growth and small business development.

Covina, CA – December 18, 2025 – Latinos In Transit (LIT) successfully concluded its first-ever Small Business Academy cohort, marking a significant milestone in supporting small business development within the transit industry. This pilot program, launched in June 2025, provided essential tools, knowledge, and resources to entrepreneurs and small business owners.

The six-month certification program was spearheaded by LIT Board Member Anthony Valdiosera, President and CEO of VST Engineering, in collaboration with a dedicated committee. Under their leadership, the academy delivered nine hours of comprehensive digital training across six interactive sessions, each lasting 1.5 hours and featuring dedicated Q&A components.

“Congratulations to all of the participants who successfully completed the inaugural Small Business Academy. Your dedication helped establish a strong and impactful first year for this program,” Valdiosera said. “As I look ahead to the 2026 Small Business Academy, I am excited to introduce updates shaped by feedback from the Small Business Committee and to continue expanding an inclusive program that supports both current small business owners and those interested in starting a business in the future.”

Program Highlights
The LIT Small Business Academy addressed key business fundamentals through six targeted modules:

1. Developing a Statement of Capabilities and conducting a SWOT analysis

2. Building business credit

3. Exploring alternative sources of financing

4. Understanding government resources (SBA, DOT, EX-IM Bank, ITA, and SAM registration)

5. Identifying private sector procurement opportunities

6. Strengthening online presence through websites, social media, and SEO

As part of the program, LIT provided participants with a Quick Reference Guide for New Entrepreneurs, a comprehensive resource featuring:

• Section I: Keywords to Know – Common acronyms and essential business terminology to help entrepreneurs communicate confidently with partners and agencies; and

• Section II: Steps to Take as a New Small Business Owner – Practical guidance on business registration, credit building, and certifications that support funding and contracting opportunities.

Recognizing Our Participants
The academy welcomed 16 participants who demonstrated a strong commitment to professional growth and small business development: Alberto Marino (Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority), Anthony Valdiosera (VST Engineering), Carlos Balderas (CapMetro), Christian Londono (ETA Transit Systems), Janeen Obeid (Oasis Consulting Team Inc), Jose Calvillo (Sunset Vans Inc.), Juan Carlos Hernandez (Mott MacDonald), Lawrence Trevino (CapMetro), Lina Aragon (Palm Tran), Ozzie Gonzalez (P3 Consulting), Sherena Hussain (FleetZero Inc.), Somayeh Moazzeni (Dallas Area Rapid Transit), Tony Jackson (Transit Marketing Group), and Wilson Ribadeneira (Systra).

Special recognition goes to Marino, Aragon, and Hussain, who completed five or more sessions and earned full program certification. Each completed session resulted in a LIT Small Business Academy digital certificate of completion.

Looking Ahead
The virtual format provided flexibility and accessibility to LIT members across locations, with sessions running monthly from June through December 2025 (with a break in August). Building on the success of this pilot, LIT is gathering participant feedback to refine and formalize programming for future cohorts.

“At LIT, we work every day to support the evolution and innovation of the transit industry, and that includes providing tools and resources to small business leaders who are integral to our community,” said Fernanda Uribe-Canseco, LIT Program Administrator, who facilitated the academy. “This pilot year of the Small Business Academy helped guide entrepreneurs starting their first business, those planning to launch in the future, and experienced business owners seeking updated resources and strategic guidance.”

The academy is offered at no cost to LIT members as part of the organization’s commitment to delivering added value and supporting small business growth. Business owners interested in future sessions are encouraged to become LIT Small Business members.

2026 Small Business Academy – Call for Proposals
LIT has released a Request for Proposals (RFP) for the 2026 Small Business Academy, inviting transit agencies, consultants, trainers, universities, and resource partners to submit programming proposals. The submission deadline is February 15, 2026.

For full details and to access the RFP, visit: Link to RFP.

For more information about the LIT Small Business Academy, please visit www.latinosintransit.org or contact f.uribe@latinosintransit.org. 

About Latinos In Transit

Latinos In Transit (LIT) is a nonprofit organization committed to advancing opportunities for professionals in the public transportation industry through workforce development, leadership training, mentorship, and education. LIT continues to expand its reach as it supports individuals and agencies working to build a skilled transit workforce.

Learn more at www.latinosintransit.org.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

Contact

Christina Villarreal

Executive Director

c.villarreal@latinosintransit.org

Latinos In Transit Announces Election of Five New Board Members as the Organization Celebrates 10 Years of Impact

With the addition of these members, the LIT Board now reflects a balanced sector composition, supporting the organization’s commitment to cross-industry collaboration and national workforce advancement.

[Covina, CA] — [December 15, 2025] — Latinos In Transit (LIT) proudly announces the election of five new members to its board of directors as the organization continues to celebrate a decade of impact in 2026. These new leaders strengthen LIT’s mission of advancing workforce development and economic development within the transportation industry and broaden representation from key regions across the country. With the addition of these members, the LIT Board now reflects a balanced sector composition of 7 public-sector representatives (41%) and 8 private-sector representatives (59%), supporting LIT’s commitment to cross-industry collaboration and national workforce advancement.

As LIT approaches its 10th anniversary, the organization reflects on a decade of meaningful and measurable progress. During this period, LIT has expanded national workforce development programs, increased access to leadership and training opportunities, strengthened economic development pathways, grown its professional network, and deepened partnerships across agencies, private companies, and community organizations. Under the direction of Executive Director Christina Villarreal, LIT continues to advance the goals outlined in its 2026–2028 Strategic Plan, preparing the transit workforce for the future through skill-building, mentorship, education, and industry engagement.

“We are thrilled to expand our board leadership capacity with such a talented group of professionals, who have demonstrated commitment and passion for our mission.  We are confident their contributions will continue to bring tremendous value to our members and communities alike,” said Eugenio Bonet, LIT Board President.

Newly Elected Board Members

Niorka “Nio” Mendez — Massachusetts (Public Sector)

Deputy Administrator, MeVa Transit
A LIT Leadership Academy graduate and respected C-suite–level leader, Mendez brings New England regional representation and extensive public-sector operational experience. Her leadership strengthens LIT’s strategic workforce initiatives and reinforces public-sector engagement.

Juan Higuera — Washington (Public Sector)

Executive Strategic Advisor, Sound Transit
A LIT Leadership Academy graduate with seasoned executive experience, Higuera offers prior service on nonprofit boards and a strong history of supporting employee development. He contributes significantly to Leadership Summit programming, enhancing LIT’s presence in the Pacific North West.

Christian G. Londono — Florida (Private Sector)

Senior Customer Success Manager, ETA Transit
A LIT Small Business Academy Graduate,Londono adds valuable technology-sector insight and supports LIT’s Small Business Committee. His background in nonprofit board leadership and community engagement strengthens LIT’s innovation-driven workforce development strategies. 

Jerry Bustamante — Texas (Private Sector)

Associate Director of Business Development, RS&H
A long-standing leader within the organization, Bustamante is LIT’s first ambassador and a former “Ambassador of the Year.” His active service on the Membership Committee and strong fundraising capacity enhance LIT’s ability to grow and serve its members across Texas and surrounding regions.

Maria Cristina Hallner — Louisiana (Private Sector)

Marketing Director, WeDriveU
A LIT Leadership Academy Graduate, Cristina has made significant contributions to the LIT Leadership Academy Committee and has delivered key training sessions. Her communications and marketing expertise expands LIT’s national visibility and supports workforce and economic development across the Gulf Coast region.

Continuing Board Members and Executive Leadership

In addition to the newly elected leaders, LIT is proud to continue the service of a dedicated group of board members and officers who provide essential governance, strategic direction, and continuity as the organization enters a landmark decade. The Executive Officers include Eugenio Bonet, President; Rosa Medina-Cristobal, Treasurer; Megan Perrero, Vice President; and Anthony Valdiosera, Secretary. The members at-large who will continue their service are Tony Mercado, Dietter Aragon, Ivan Rodriguez, Lina Aragon, Monica Tellez-Fowler, and Jose Hernandez. Together, this dedicated group—representing both public and private sectors across multiple regions—ensures strong organizational governance and supports LIT’s national workforce development agenda.

About Latinos In Transit

Latinos In Transit (LIT) is a national 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that advances workforce development and economic development across the public transportation industry. LIT delivers national training programs, professional development pathways, mentorship offerings, and strategic partnerships that equip transportation professionals with the skills, resources, and networks needed for career success. As LIT approaches its 10-year anniversary in 2026, the organization continues expanding its national footprint and strengthening its impact on America’s mobility workforce.

www.latinosintransit.org

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Attachment: Headshots

LIT 

Contact: Christina Villarreal

Executive Director

(626) 495-1548 

c.villareal@latinosintransit.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

LIT Announces Board Officers for 2026, Issues Call for New Board Members

As LIT ignites change on its 10-year anniversary, the new leadership team prepares to steer the organization through a refreshed brand and bold strategic vision

[Covina, CA] – [October 24, 2025] – LIT today announced the election of its Executive Officers for the 2026-27 term, and issued an open call for new board members to begin service on January 1, 2026. This announcement comes on the heels of LIT marking its 10-year anniversary and unveiling a refreshed brand identity and strategic plan.

Board Officer Elections

During its October board meeting, the LIT Board voted to elect the following officers, whose two-year term begins January 1, 2026:

• President – Eugenio Bonet, HNTB

• Vice President – Megan Perrero, Mass Transit Magazine

• Treasurer – Rosa Medina Cristobal, Dallas Area Rapid Transit

• Secretary – Anthony Valdiosera, VST Engineering

Outgoing President Herold Humphrey will now serve as ex officio board member, joining past board presidents Milo Victoria and Alva Carrasco.

The new slate of officers is charged with leading the execution of LIT’s newly adopted strategic plan for 2026-2028, launching the next chapter of growth as the organization celebrates its decade of service.

“Over the past two years, our 2024-25 officers have laid the groundwork for LIT’s next phase — increasing our mentorship and leadership programming, deepening our industry partnerships, and refreshing our brand to reflect our growing impact,” said Executive Director Christina Villarreal, “Now, with this new leadership team, we’re ready to ignite change across our industry, ensuring that LIT’s mission to empower professionals in transit continues to scale and evolve.”

Board Issues Call for New Board Members

In that same October meeting, the Board approved issuing a call for 6 new board
members to serve a two-year term beginning January 1, 2026. LIT is seeking
motivated volunteers who can commit 5–10 hours per month to help move the organization forward as a working board.

“We are looking forward to bringing on new people to the board who can bring fresh ideas, and a willingness to dive in head first as we look to execute our newly adopted strategic plan,” said Megan Perrero, board secretary and chair of the Board Evaluations & Nominations Committee. “If you’re looking for an opportunity to volunteer in a hands-on environment and directly help shape LIT’s programs and services, we encourage you to apply to become a board member.”

How to apply:

• Visit www.latinosintransit.org to download the application.

• Submit your completed application by November 14, 2025.

• Candidates must be members of LIT in good standing.

• Candidates must have completed committee service.

• Selected candidates will be notified in December and begin service on January 1, 2026.

• Ideal candidates: willing to serve 5–10 hours/month, support LIT’s mission of workforce development, mentorship, networking, economic development, and education in the transit industry.

ABOUT LIT

Founded in 2015, LIT is a nonprofit organization committed to empowering professionals in the transit industry to achieve leadership roles by advancing opportunities for workforce development, mentorship, networking and education.

latinosintransit.org | linkedin.com/latinosintransit 

Supporting images

LIT 

Contact: Christina Villarreal

Executive Director

(626) 495-1548 

c.villareal@latinosintransit.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

LIT Celebrates 10 Years of Impact at the 2025 Leadership Summit in Albuquerque

Since October 2015, LIT has led the way in developing leadership, mentorship and training opportunities for the next generation of public transit leaders. 

Albuquerque, NM — October 6, 2025 — LIT marked a milestone 10-year anniversary during its 2025 Leadership Summit, held October 2–4 at The Clyde Hotel in Albuquerque, N.M. Hosted in partnership with the Rio Metro Regional Transit District, as well as local and state organizations, the three-day event brought together hundreds of transit leaders, professionals, and advocates from across the nation to celebrate a decade of progress in workforce development, mentorship, and leadership advancement in the transit industry.

A Decade of Growth and Empowerment

LIT Executive Director Christina Villarreal, LIT Board of Directors, along with local stakeholders like the Albuquerque Hispano Chamber of Commerce, ABQ Ride, the New Mexico Transit Association, and Albuquerque International Sunport airport, welcomed LIT members and attendees to an inspiring summit centered around connection, development, and advancement. Over the past 10 years, LIT has grown into a national force for specialized workforce development, supporting transit industry professionals and elevating leadership advancement across the public and private sectors.

A New Chapter Unveiled: LIT’s Reimagined Identity

At the 2025 Leadership Summit, LIT unveiled more than just an updated logo—it revealed a new chapter in the organization’s story. What emerged is both a reflection of transformation and the product of a deeply collaborative journey that honored the past while embracing the future.

From the outset, the goal was clear: to create a modern identity that captures the energy of LIT’s first decade and reflects its growing role as a national voice and forward-looking leader in the transit space. Designers and collaborators immersed themselves in the organization’s history, listening to voices from across the LIT membership and translating impact into visual design. Through workshops, feedback sessions, and iterative development, the team shaped a logo and visual identity that embodies movement, connection, and progress.

The result is an identity layered with meaning—pathways and networks reflecting momentum and connectivity; vibrant colors symbolizing community warmth and mission resilience. Together, they represent renewal, energy, and an enduring spark.

“This design was born from listening to our members and translating their energy into something lasting,” Villarreal said. “Every line, every element tells a story of who we are: resilient, connected, authentic, and constantly moving forward. This logo isn’t just something you see; it’s something you carry with you. It reflects our story, our energy, and the promise of the future we are building together.”

LIT’s refreshed visual identity is a marker of evolution honoring the legacy of LIT while boldly declaring the organization’s readiness to lead the next chapter of transit leadership with imagination, confidence, and impact. 

View the new logo here.

Dynamic Programming and Experiential Learning

The summit featured technical tours, workforce trainings, and interactive leadership sessions addressing critical topics across the transit landscape, including:

• Transit Regulations, Compliance, and Human Factors led by Lina Aragon of Palm Tran
  
  

• Avanzando Workforce Task Force training with Tony Bridwell, Ph.D.
  
  

• Small Business Strategies & Transit Partnerships moderated by Anthony Valdiosera, CEO of VST Engineering
  
  

• Title VI Considerations in Microtransit with Aida Berduo Berry of WSP
  
  

• Represented Workforce Leadership with Dietter Aragon of OmniTrans

The full Summit Program may be found here.

Additional specialized sessions included:

• Café Con LIT: Communicating Transit’s Value Through Its Economic Impact

Moderated by Megan Perrero, LITBoard Secretary and Editor in Chief of Mass Transit magazine, explored how agencies can leverage transit’s role in economic development and job creation, with research showing a 5-to-1 economic return from long-term transit investment.

Panelists included: Aaron Sussman, Principal Planner, Toole Design;Monica Tellez-Fowler, President & CEO, COTA; LIT Board Member; and Eugenio Bonet, Vice President of Architecture Operations, HNTB; LIT Board Treasurer.

Panelists discussed strategies for communicating transit’s value in job creation, tax revenue, and private sector support to garner broad community and funding backing.

• Focus on Mental Health and Wellness

The Transportation Research Board (TRB) hosted a special session titled, “TRB Presents a Discussion on TCRP Report 245: Mental Health, Wellness, and Resilience for Transit System Workers,” emphasizing self-care and workforce resilience. To complement the theme, attendees enjoyed 10-minute refresh massages, sponsored by The Solis Group, providing a mid-conference wellness break.

National Livestream Access

Thanks to the generous sponsorship of Sound Transit, New Flyer, WeDriveU, and HNTB, Friday’s events were livestreamed nationally for free, expanding access to professionals across the country ensuring inclusion, regardless of travel or financial ability.

Experiential learning extended beyond the classroom with technical tours of the New Mexico Rail Runner Express and the Albuquerque International Sunport, showcasing regional innovation and multimodal connectivity.

Leadership Luncheon: Honoring Excellence and Announcing the Future

The Annual Membership Meeting & Leadership Luncheon, sponsored by HNTB, was a highlight of the summit, showcasing organizational milestones, unveiling LIT’s refreshed brand identity, and recognizing leaders across the industry.

Attendees enjoyed a “Taste of New Mexico” luncheon while hearing about LIT’s strategic vision for the next decade. Leadership also presented the LIT Strategic Plan, outlining initiatives to strengthen workforce development, mentorship, and advocacy.

The full Strategic Plan is available here.

Founder’s Award

Alva Carrasco, Immediate Past President, received the Founder’s Award for her extraordinary leadership and unwavering commitment to advancing LIT’s mission.

Small Business Member of the Year

The Solis Group was honored as LIT’s Small Business Member of the Year in recognition of the company’s excellence in service, industry impact and support of LIT’s mission. Finalists included Bradley Consulting & Training and Avail Technologies. 

Transit Agency of the Year

LIT’s Transit Agency of the Year for Western Operations went to Foothill Transit and the Eastern Operations winner was MeVa Transit. Finalists included Long Beach Transit, South Central Regional Transit, VIA Metropolitan Transit, GRTC, Sound Transit, Palm Tran, and TriMet.

Board & Member Awards

• Elizabeth Carter – President’s Award
  
  

• Andres Castellanos – Mentor of the Year
  
  

• Jerry Bustamante – Ambassador of the Year
  
  

• Oscar Gomez – Member of the Year
  
  

Keynote and Leadership Summit 2026

Salvador Llamas, CEO of AC Transit, inspired attendees with “From Immigrant to C-Suite Executive: Inspiring Future Leaders Through Lessons Learned.”

The luncheon concluded with an exciting announcement from Monica Tellez-Fowler, President & CEO of COTA, revealing that the 2026 Leadership Summit will be hosted in Columbus, Ohio, culminating in a 10-year anniversary gala.

Leadership Academy Graduation & Trailblazer Awards

The Leadership Academy Graduation and Awards Celebration, sponsored by WeDriveU, honored graduates from LIT’s Leadership Academy cohorts—New Careers in Transit, The Making of an Executive, Transit Board Leadership, and Leading in Middle Management.

The evening also recognized Trailblazer Award recipients—partners and organizations instrumental in shaping LIT’s first decade:

• Transdev
  
  

• HNTB
  
  

• MV Transportation
  
  

• Keolis
  
  

• WeDriveU
  
  

• New Mexico Transit Association
  
  

• Community Transportation Association of America
  
  

• Avail Technologies
  
  

• Cristina Hallner
  
  

View the full Graduation & Awards Program here.

Sponsors and Partners

LIT extends heartfelt gratitude to all summit sponsors and partners The full list of sponsors is available here.

Inspiring Sessions and Cultural Connections

Beyond awards and keynotes, the summit featured breakout sessions on personal branding, work-life balance, and emerging technology, along with a Cultural Sharing Ceremony by the Next Generation Pueblo of Acoma youth.

Networking events such as the Contigo Mentor Pair Up, Ice Cream Social, and receptions at Hotel Andaluz and Canvas Artistry fostered community and connection.

Looking Ahead

As LIT enters its second decade, it reaffirms its mission to empower industry professionals and amplify workforce development in transit. With its refreshed identity, strengthened mentorship programs, and bold strategic plan, LIT continues building bridges, sparking advancement, and inspiring the next generation of leaders.

For membership and program information, visit www.latinosintransit.org.

ABOUT LIT

Founded in 2015, LIT is a nonprofit organization committed to empowering professionals in the transit industry to achieve leadership roles by advancing opportunities for workforce development, mentorship, networking and education.

latinosintransit.org | linkedin.com/latinosintransit 

LIT Celebrates 10 Years of Leadership and Mentorship-1.pdf

LIT

Contact: Christina Villarreal

Executive Director

(626) 495-1548 

c.villareal@latinosintransit.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 4, 2025

LIT Unveils Refreshed Logo to Mark 10 Years of Growth and Innovation

During the Annual Membership Meeting at the 2025 Leadership Summit, LIT unveiled a bold refreshed logo and new branding that reflects the organization’s evolution over the past decade and its vision for the future. The reveal capped off three days of collaboration and dialogue at the Summit in Albuquerque, where industry leaders gathered to shape the future of mobility and leadership in transit.

The refreshed logo serves as a milestone in LIT’s journey, symbolizing 10 years of supporting the advancement and development of professionals in the transit industry.. The design captures the organization’s forward-looking energy while honoring the community and legacy that laid its foundation.

“This new logo is more than just a visual identity, it’s a reflection of who we are and where we’re going,” said LIT Executive Director Christina Villareal. “Over the last 10 years, LIT has grown into a dynamic force that sparks opportunity and innovation. This unveiling marks the start of our next chapter.”

The refreshed identity is designed to resonate with the next generation of transit leaders, highlighting the dynamism and excellence that define the organization today. It also underscores LIT’s role as a catalyst for innovation, professional development, and industry-wide collaboration.

“This milestone celebrates the people who have made LIT what it is today–our members, partners, and allies,” Villareal added. “Together, we are not just reflecting on the past, but shaping a future that is bold, exciting, and lit with possibility.”

The logo reveal comes as LIT celebrates its 10th anniversary, a testament to a decade of progress and a commitment to advancing leadership in transit for years to come.

ABOUT LIT

Founded in 2015, LIT is a nonprofit organization committed to empowering professionals in the transit industry to achieve leadership roles by advancing opportunities for workforce development, mentorship, networking and education.

latinosintransit.org | linkedin.com/latinosintransit 

I am proud to announce that Access Services, in partnership with the University of the Pacific, will be hosting a 7-course series transit and paratransit management program!

Each class provides participants with essential management and industry knowledge for becoming a successful leader in the transportation field. Participants who complete the program receive a Transit and Paratransit Management Certificate issued by the University of the Pacific!

Registration is now open!

Link: Transit and Paratransit Management Certificate Program | UOP

LIT

Contact: Christina Villarreal

Executive Director

(626) 495-1548 

c.villareal@latinosintransit.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 30, 2025

LIT Launches Small Business Academy to Empower Entrepreneurs in Public Transit 

By offering this essential training, LIT helps position entrepreneurs for greater impact, resilience, and opportunity within the rapidly evolving transit industry.

[Covina, CA] — Latinos In Transit (LIT) proudly announces the launch of the LIT Small Business Academy, a new six-module certification program designed to equip small business owners with the knowledge, tools, and strategies to succeed in the multi-billion-dollar transit industry.

"The inspiration behind the LIT Small Business Academy is to support economic development by helping small businesses gain the skills and connections needed to thrive in transit,” said LIT Executive Director Christina Villarreal. “We’re excited to welcome participants into this transformative learning experience. It’s more than a training program—it’s a strategic investment in the future of small businesses in the industry."

Open to both members and non-members, the Academy is structured to deliver strategic insights and practical skills aimed at fostering long-term business growth. LIT members will receive free access, while non-members can enroll for $850. The program kicks off in June 2025, and the registration deadline is May 27, 2025.

Facilitated by business development expert Gabriela Morales, president and CEO of Potesta Business Consulting, the Academy offers unparalleled guidance. With over a decade of experience at the U.S. Department of Commerce and a national reputation for economic empowerment,  Morales brings real-world expertise to each session.

Program Overview

The LIT Small Business Academy includes six virtual sessions, each lasting 1.5 hours with interactive Q&A segments. Topics include:

• Creating a compelling statement of capabilities and SWOT analysis

• Building business credit

• Securing alternative financing

• Leveraging government resources (SBA, DOT, EX-IM Bank, ITA, SAM registration)

• Identifying private sector procurement opportunities

• Enhancing digital visibility through websites, SEO, and social media
  
  

Each session is delivered monthly over a six-month period, with a break in August. All sessions are virtual, providing accessible and flexible learning for participants across the country.

Participants will earn a digital certificate of completion for each session, recognizing their progress and commitment to excellence in the transit sector.

In addition to the core curriculum, participants will also have affordable access to one-on-one consultation services with Morales, offering tailored support to address specific business challenges and opportunities.

A Core Offering for LIT Members

The Academy reflects LIT’s ongoing commitment to leading with integrity and facilitating industry collaboration. By offering this essential training, LIT helps position entrepreneurs for greater impact, resilience, and opportunity within the rapidly evolving transit industry.

To register or learn more, visit www.latinosintransit.org.

ABOUT LATINOS IN TRANSIT(LIT)

Founded in 2016, LIT is a nonprofit organization committed to empowering professionals in the transit industry to achieve leadership roles by advancing opportunities for workforce development, mentorship, networking and education.

 

latinosintransit.org | linkedin.com/latinosintransit 

Latinos In Transit (LIT) invites public and private transit/transportation organizations to submit their interest in hosting the 2026 LIT Leadership Summit.

Deadline to Submit: August 1, 2025
Submit to: c.villarreal@latinosintransit.org

View the complete RFP here:
RFP for Leadership Summit 2026.pdf

Call for Nominations!

Do you know an outstanding LIT Small Business Member or Transit Agency Member who has made a significant impact in the public transportation industry and within the Latinos In Transit community? Now’s your chance to celebrate their dedication and excellence!

Nominate a deserving LIT member today for:

• Small Business Member of the Year

• Transit Member of the Year

Deadline to submit nominations: April 15, 2025

Nominees must be LIT members in good standing. Let’s honor those going above and beyond to advance our mission and uplift our community! View our member directory here for some inspiration.

Nominate a Small Business

Nominate a Transit Agency