Dr. Luisa Ortega is a transformational leader with over 20 years of experience in nonprofit management,
program development, and community advocacy. As Executive Director of the Chicano Latino Youth
Leadership Project (CLYLP), she leads initiatives that address educational and civic disparities affecting
Latino/Chicano youth. An Indigenous, first-generation Chicana and dedicated mother, she has
championed access to education and mental health resources for marginalized communities.
 

Dr. Ortega holds a bachelor’s degree in Ethnic Studies and Political Science from the University of
California, Berkeley, a master’s in education from San Diego State University, and a doctorate in
Organizational Change and Leadership from the University of Southern California. Her research on best
practices for Latino male students in Los Angeles highlights her commitment to educational equity.
 

Her impact has been recognized with several honors, including the Bravas Award (2024) for visionary
leadership, the HOPE Leadership Institute Fellowship (2025) for advancing Latina empowerment in
education and civic engagement, a 2025 Latino Spirit Award honoree recognized for community
engagement by the California Latino Legislative Caucus, and a CORO Women in Leadership leader. She
has spoken at national conferences such as CABE, NACCS, and the CA Hispanic Chamber of
Commerce, been featured in KVCR Latino Leaders Spotlight, and contributed to academic panels on
non-profit leadership and Latino youth advocacy.
 

A proud daughter of immigrant parents, Luisa credits their resilience and faith for shaping her path. As a
mother of three—including two college students—she remains deeply invested in the future of education,
community-building, and social justice for future generations.