The National Forum for Latino Healthcare Executives (NFLHE) is a national organization led by senior executive health care leaders in the U.S.

NFLHE members include Latino/Latina executive leaders of U.S. hospitals and healthcare organizations and experts in the fields of health care policy and practice. The principal strategic objectives of NFLHE are to increase the representation of Latinos at the executive level of U.S. hospitals and health systems and to provide a resource base of input from Latino executives in the areas of legislation, regulation, and policy affecting the health and health care of U.S. Latino communities.

It has been two and a half years since I began my tenure as President and Chairman of the Board of NFLHE.  Our transition, during this period, has been exciting, brimming with challenges and opportunities alike.  It is indeed a pleasure and morale raising to work with committed board members where the vibrancy of our culture come to life in our delivery of healthcare.  I was deeply honored to be here.

Like the seasons, we are living in a transitional moment, where the national economy has affected every aspect of our lives.I firmly believe that we can make a difference by being in the forefront of healthcare policy and placement of Latinos in c-suite positions and on national Boards.

We have moved into arenas during the last two years such as: web-site development, active sponsorship activities, 501(c)(3) status, presentations at major conferences, e.g., ACHE, AHA, Institute for Diversity, National Hispanic Medical Association. We have also changed our structure to a committee structure, changing by laws for executive officer succession and active recruitment of Latinas to our Board.

Our March Board meeting at the ACHE Congress in Chicago will primarily evolve around our future strategic planning so we can have a solid base and expand our mission to further equity and diversity in the healthcare arena.Our Board is truly a vibrant stimulus for a constant renewal of spirit that always allows for transformation and invites the spirit of us all to participate.

As I step down from my tenure, I am genuinely thankful to each member of the organization for making my job easier and for their wise counsel. I congratulate the incoming executive Board officers and offer them my full and unwaivering support. Gracias, Gabriel Perez, President and Chairman of the NFLHE Board, 2009-2012.