OUR MISSION

The Mission of La Paz is to empower and engage Chattanoog's Latino population through advocacy, education, and inclusion.

We have a vision of a thriving Latinx community. We support efforts that are designed to make Chattanooga a more inclusive city.

OUR TEAM

STACY
JOHNSON

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Stacy has been on the La Paz team since 2004, serving as a board member prior to joining the staff as the Executive Director in 2008. After extensive travel and volunteer work in Latin America, Stacy developed a passion for working with Latino communities. Her work at La Paz encompasses all areas of the organization including operations, growth and fundraising efforts.

VIVIAN
LOZANO-
STERCHI

DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL IMPACT

Vivian is a first generation Colombian-American, and has worked for La Paz since 2012. Vivian focuses on creating programs and initiatives that offer support, resources, and opportunities to meet community needs. She also focuses on sustaining and creating partnerships with different agencies and organizations so that they can better serve the Latinx community in Chattanooga. 

MARCO
PEREZ

DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS

Marco is a long-time supporter of La Paz, serving the organization and community in various capacities before joining the staff in 2020. A native of Costa Rica, Marco brings expertise in international business and entrepreneurial leadership. Marco currently serves as the District 2 representative for the Hamilton County School Board in addition to his work at La Paz.

JESSICA
CLICHE

DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY

EDUCATION & ENGAGEMENT

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Jessica has worked since at La Paz since 2009. A native of Guatemala, Jessica is passionate about serving the Chattanooga Latino community. She believes in empowering others through education and in the importance of building relationships within the community. With her team, she provides community-based programs that train grassroots leaders (promotoras) to provide education sessions and support in the neighborhood

ASHLEY
VALENCIA

CASE MANAGER

Ashley has been with La Paz since April 2021. Born to Colombian parents and raised in Chile, Ashley is invigorated to learn about and serve the unique landscape of Chattanooga's Latinx population. As a bilingual case manager, Ashley serves our community in vital ways, including advocating for them and connecting them to essential resources in our city.

DIANA
SILVA

CASE MANAGER

Diana is our newest La Paz team member as of May 2021. Born in Michoacán, MX, Diana emigrated to the US as a child. A graduate of Dalton State College with a Masters in Social Work from Barry University, Diana is passionate about seeing others empowered and is motivated by being able to change someone's life, even in just a small way.

LILY
SANCHEZ

COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER

Lily was born to immigrant parents from the Dominican Republic where she lived for six years. She's worked for La Paz since 2017. Lily is passionate about her culture and empowering her community through storytelling. At La Paz, Lily provides communication support through social media and web management, marketing & events support, and development efforts.

JESUS
TORES

ADMINISTRATIVE COORDINATOR

Jesus was born to parents originally from Guanajuato, Mexico and grew up in Georgia. He is currently pursuing a Master’s in Industrial/Organizational Psychology. He is passionate about mental health and expression. At La Paz, Jesus ensures that the office runs smoothly by assisting the team with logistics, administrative duties, and volunteer engagement.

OUR BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Eric Myers, Board Chair
Chattanooga Design Studio
 

Bilda Acuna Small, Board Vice Chair
Girls Preparatory School

Carmen Quezada Hutson, Board Secretary
United Way of Greater Chattanooga

Corinne Henderson, Board Treasurer
Henderson + Gouger, PLLC

Shadrina Booker
Big Brothers Big Sisters

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Eric Myers, Board Chair
Chattanooga Design Studio
 

Bilda Acuna Small, Board Vice Chair
Girls Preparatory School

Carmen Quezada Hutson, Board Secretary
United Way of Greater Chattanooga

Corinne Henderson, Board Treasurer
Henderson + Gouger, PLLC

Shadrina Booker
Big Brothers Big Sisters

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