Holland-based Latin Americans United for Progress INC (LAUP)—a nonprofit aimed at empowering Latino communities through education, leadership development, cultural celebration, and advocacy—has welcomed Alejandra Guillén as its new Executive Director.
A passionate advocate and experienced nonprofit leader with more than a decade of work in education, marketing, and strategic partnerships, Guillén was born and raised in Mexico and brings both a lived understanding of the communities LAUP serves and a professional track record rooted in advocacy, inclusion, and lasting impact.
"On behalf of the Board of Directors, I am proud to welcome Alejandra Guillén as the new Executive Director of our organization," said Abraham Roa, President of LAUP's Board of Directors. "Alejandra brings with her a deep commitment to community, a passion for advocacy, and a strong vision for the future of our mission. As a Latina leader, her experience and voice will help guide us as we continue uplifting and empowering the Latino community. We look forward to working together to build on our legacy and create meaningful impact for generations to come."
Most recently, Guillén served as Director of Marketing and Recruitment at Davenport University's Casa Latina, where she led groundbreaking efforts to increase access to higher education for Latinos and establish collaborative partnerships to bridge education, workforce development, and community needs.
Beyond her work in higher education, Guillén has contributed to the nonprofit sector in both the U.S. and Mexico, leading initiatives that celebrate culture, foster leadership, and empower youth and families. She currently serves on the board of the Latina Network of West Michigan and holds committee roles with the Somos Comunidad Fund at the Grand Rapids Community Foundation and the Zapopan Sister City Committee through Grand Rapids Sister Cities International.
"This opportunity is deeply meaningful to me," said Guillén. "LAUP has been a trusted presence in our community for generations, and I'm incredibly honored to help carry that legacy forward. I look forward to listening, learning, and growing alongside our community to ensure LAUP remains a place of opportunity, connection, and belonging."
Guillén brings to the role a deep understanding of the nonprofit landscape, a history of building cross-sector partnerships, and a strong commitment to culturally responsive leadership.
To learn more, visit laup.org or follow @laupholland on social media.
Courtesy of West Michigan Woman.
Photos courtesy of LAUP.
