Meet Our Board
Guiding the vision, Rooted in community
Our Board of Directors is made up of passionate, accomplished leaders who are committed to advancing Despierta’s mission. Each brings a unique background—from healthcare and business to nonprofit leadership and community advocacy—yet they are united by one shared purpose: empowering Latinas in Charlotte to thrive.We are proud to lead with heart and purpose.
EXECUTIVE BOARD
Ivette Ceballos
Board Chair
Ivette Ceballos
Board Chair
Originally from Quito, Ecuador, Ivette leads with compassion and conviction. With a Master of Public Health and extensive healthcare experience, she is committed to improving health outcomes for the Latino community. As Board Chair, she is guiding Despierta into a new phase of growth and long-term sustainability.
Lissette Velez
Vice-Chair
Lissette Velez
Vice-Chair
CEO – Velez Strategies
Lissette, originally from Guayaquil, Ecuador, brings over a decade of business consulting and nonprofit leadership experience. As chair of the Business Development Committee, she helps build strategic partnerships that fund and grow Despierta’s impact across Charlotte.
Collin E Bailey
Board Treasurer
Mary Kate Finnigan
Board Treasurer
Vice President of Global Procurement – Bally’s Corporation
Collin brings corporate leadership and strategic insight to Despierta, along with a strong commitment to equity and impact. As a seasoned business executive he offers deep expertise in operations, fiscal planning, and performance management. With a Juris Doctor from Roger Williams University School of Law, he helps guide Despierta’s financial oversight and long-term sustainability as the organization grows.
Emily Chaskelson
Board Secretary
Emily Chaskelson
Board Secretary
CMS ESL Teacher –
Born in Kansas City and now a longtime Charlotte resident, Emily has taught English as a Second Language for nearly 20 years. She brings a heart for students, culture, and language access, ensuring Latinas have the tools they need to succeed in and out of the classroom.
BOARD MEMBER
Mary Kate Finnigan
Nurse Practitioner
Mary Kate Finnigan
Nurse Practitioner
Nurse Practitioner – OB/GYN Specialty
With a Master’s in Family Practice Nursing, Mary Kate is deeply committed to women’s health and advocacy. Her clinical knowledge and mentorship mindset help Despierta nurture the next generation of Latina leaders.
Andrea Orozco
Nurse and Community Advocate
Andrea Orozco
Healthcare Professional & Community Advocate
A proud Colombian-American with over 15 years in nursing, Andrea blends professional expertise with personal resilience. As a former teen mom turned community leader, her story inspires Despierta’s mission to uplift and empower women. She also co-leads Latina Network Style, creating spaces for women in Charlotte to connect, grow, and lead with confidence.
Maryate Orduno
Local Entrepreneur
Lissette Velez
Local Entrepreneur
A licensed esthetician and co-leader of Latina Network Style in Charlotte, Maryate is a passionate advocate for women’s empowerment and cultural representation. She supports Despierta’s outreach and community-building efforts, bringing integrity, pride, and a deep connection to the Latina experience.
Saúl Amézquita
Senior Patient Experience Consultant, Atrium Health
Saúl Amézquita
Senior Patient Experience Consultant
A South Texas native, Saúl brings over a decade of experience in healthcare and patient advocacy. As a Senior Patient Experience Consultant at Atrium Health, he leads efforts to make healthcare more clear, inclusive, and accessible. His background in crisis counseling and health literacy informs his commitment to equity, communication, and community well-being.
Laura Parker
Immigration Attorney & Legal Consultant
Laura Parker Waits
Immigration Attorney & Legal Consultant
Originally from Texas, Laura spent a decade in Honduras and now lives in Charlotte. She’s passionate about supporting immigrant families and brings extensive legal experience and compassion to Despierta’s work. Laura speaks Spanish and advocates for equity and justice in all forms.