Latine High School Leadership Conference
Our Voice, Our Future / Nuestra Voz, Nuestro Futuro
Friday, April 24, 2026
The Latine High School Leadership Conference seeks to inspire, inform, and prepare Latine high school students to pursue their post-secondary educational goals. The conference includes motivational keynote speakers, informative and relevant workshops, and a resourceful college and career resource fair. High school juniors and seniors in high schools in Linn and Benton counties are strongly encouraged to attend. Schools may also consider inviting sophomores and freshmen. The conference welcomes all students interested in attending a Latine-focused leadership conference.
Conference engagement opportunity forms:
- Submit a conference workshop proposal
- Volunteers
- LBCC Department/Clubs Resource Fair
- College, Business, and Industry Resource Fair
- Non-Profit Resource Fair
- High School Student Scholarship information and application (opening soon!)
For additional conference information, email equitycenter@linnbenton.edu.
Keynote Speaker
Pedro Villagran
Pedro Villagran is a senior operations executive, leadership speaker, and community advocate dedicated to developing the next generation of leaders through purpose-driven leadership, resilience, and authentic growth. With more than 20 years of experience leading global customer experience and operations organizations, Pedro currently serves as Senior Director of Operations at Kelly Education, where he oversees large virtual teams, strategic partnerships, and performance programs supporting thousands of educators and school districts nationwide.
Born into poverty to undocumented parents and raised in challenging environments, Pedro’s journey to executive leadership reflects perseverance, determination, and a deep commitment to personal growth. He began his career in an entry-level role and advanced to executive leadership by building high-performing teams, driving operational excellence, and developing leaders across diverse organizations and cultures.
Pedro is a passionate advocate for leadership development and representation. He regularly delivers keynote speeches and workshops that encourage students and professionals to recognize their potential, embrace their identity, and build confidence as leaders in their communities and future careers. His message centers on the belief that leadership is shaped by experience, mindset, and the willingness to create positive impact.
Beyond his corporate career, Pedro serves as Board President of PODER Action Alliance, a political action committee focused on strengthening Latino civic engagement and leadership in Oregon. He is deeply committed to mentorship, community empowerment, and expanding opportunities for emerging leaders.
Pedro lives in Oregon with his family and is dedicated to inspiring young people to see their background as a foundation for future success.
