ispanics and Latinos are gaining a foothold in virtually every industry and career sector, reflecting the growing diversity of the US population. While most industries support general professional and trade organizations, a number of groups now focus specifically on issues important to Hispanics/Latinos. Education, networking opportunities and advocacy top the list of services offered.
Not sure how to find a group that suits your needs? Start by perusing this list of the largest and most well-established national Hispanic/Latino groups, divided by business or industry sector. Bear in mind that some national associations may have local chapters, and other groups may only serve a specific region. As with any rapidly changing part of our society, watch for new arrivals.
Business and Finance
- Association of Latino Professionals in Finance and Accounting: Established in 1972; 37 chapters. The leading association of Hispanics/Latinos working in finance, accounting and related professions. Offers workshops, mentorships and other programs.
- Latin Business Association: Since 1976, it has grown to include 1,500 members on four continents. The aim is to promote growth of Hispanic/Latino-owned companies through business development, education and advocacy.
- National Society of Hispanic MBAs: Founded in 1988. Prepares Hispanics/Latinos for leadership positions in public and private sectors; links Hispanic/Latino professionals and MBA students with corporations and other organizations. More than 8,000 members in 32 chapters in the US and Puerto Rico.
- US Hispanic Chamber of Commerce: Started in 1979; More than 215 local member chambers in the US, Puerto Rico and Mexico. Composed primarily of entrepreneurs and those working for small businesses. Advocates, promotes and facilitates the success of Hispanic/Latino businesses.
Engineering
- Society for the Advancement of Chicanos and Native Americans in Science: For more than 30 years, SACNAS has worked to improve and expand opportunities for minorities in scientific industries and academia. Includes graduate students and postdoctoral fellows.
- Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers: Organized in 1974; now the largest Hispanic/Latino engineering and science organization. Offers professional development and networking to 8,000 members in 43 professional chapters; 240 student chapters.
- Society of Mexican American Engineers and Scientists: Founded in 1974. Open to all Hispanics/Latinos in technical and scientific fields; chapters throughout the US.
Government
- National Association of Hispanic Federal Executives: Started in 1984; 2,000 members at various levels of government.
Healthcare
- Interamerican College of Physicians and Surgeons: Founded in 1979; includes more than 39,000 physicians and healthcare professionals in the US and Puerto Rico. Promotes cooperation among Hispanic/Latino physicians while advancing professional and educational needs.
- National Association of Hispanic Nurses: Begun in 1975; 1,000 members. Mission includes professional development, collaboration with other Hispanic/Latino healthcare providers and networking.
- National Hispanic Medical Association: Founded in 1994. Represents 36,000 Hispanic/Latino physicians in the US; offers professional development while working to unite physicians with government and the private sector.
Law and Criminal Justice
- Federal Hispanic Law Enforcement Officers Association: Represents more than 20,000 Hispanic/Latino law enforcement professionals around the world; offers training programs as well as advocacy and networking.
- Hispanic National Bar Association: Since 1972, a professional organization for Hispanic/Latino attorneys, judges, law professionals and law students in the US and Puerto Rico; 22,000 members.
Media
- National Association of Hispanic Journalists: Founded in 1984; the national voice for Hispanics/Latinos working in television, radio, print, new media and other media-related professions. Its 2,300 members include journalism educators and students.
Real Estate
- National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals: Dozens of chapters throughout the US; mission is to empower Hispanic/Latino real estate professionals.
Social Work
- National Association of Puerto Rican and Hispanic Social Workers: Organized in 1983; includes social workers, other human services professionals and students interested in issues that affect Puerto Rican and Hispanic/Latino communities.
08-12-2010, 06:35 AM
Top 16 Hispanic/Latino Professional Associations
