2026 Persistence in Adversity Foundation Board
The 2026 Persistence in Adversity Foundation Board extends heartfelt gratitude to all who have supported our community initiatives.
As we finalize plans for the Be the Change Leadership Conference on May 20th, we invite you to join forces with us. By sponsoring a high school student or becoming a conference sponsor, you'll help empower the next generation of leaders.
Together, we can amplify our impact and equip them with essential soft skills. You can also lead a Skills Spark session or reach out to us to explore how you can contribute to shaping these emerging leaders.
Executive Board
Dr. Esmeralda Adame
FOUNDER
Dr. Esmeralda Adame is a first-generation leader, international speaker, and educator dedicated to transforming lives through leadership and service. With over three decades of experience across engineering, education, and organizational leadership, she has empowered over 85,000 individuals through teaching, mentorship, and community initiatives.
As the founder of the Persistence in Adversity Foundation and Podcast, she continues to champion resilience, education, and opportunity—living out her mission as the “Leadership Doctora.”
Fatima Garcia
DIRECTOR OF SALES & MARKETING
Bio, coming soon....
Pilar Gonzalez
TITLE COMING SOON
Bio, coming soon...
Noe Salinas
Director of Operations
Marcus oversees the foundation's daily initiatives, ensuring that every project aligns with our core values of resilience and empowerment.
Advisory Board
Geneva Padron
Felida Villarreal
Hector Sanchez
Geneva Padron is a Clinical Trial Recruitment Specialist and founder of The Chrysalis Project, a platform dedicated to transforming burnout into breakthrough. She is passionate about mentoring others, fostering resilience, and creating meaningful community impact.
Felida Villarreal is President & CEO of Valley Initiative for Development and Advancement, where she leads workforce development initiatives across the region. A CPA and community leader, she is passionate about economic growth, financial empowerment, and advancing Latina leadership.
Hector is a Vice President-Branch Manager at Texas National Bank with over 20 years of banking experience. He is passionate about financial wellness, community engagement, and helping individuals and families achieve their financial goals.
Judge Nereida Lopez-Singleterry
Rubi Cantu
CJ Sanchez
Judge Nereida Lopez-Singleterry is the first female judge of the 476th District Court of Hidalgo County. With over a decade of legal experience, she is dedicated to justice, advocacy, and serving her community with empathy and integrity.
E. Rubi Cantu, SPHR, SHRM-CP, is an HR Manager II at Regal Rexnord with 14+ years of experience. She specializes in data-driven strategies, talent development, and creating high-performing workplace cultures that align with business goals.
Carlos Javier “C.J.” Sanchez is a community leader, entrepreneur, and President & CEO of the Greater Pharr Chamber of Commerce. With a background in communications and nonprofit leadership, he is committed to empowering businesses, supporting education, and strengthening the Rio Grande Valley community.