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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