In a notable stride for diversity and leadership, Phoenix-based nonprofit Chicanos Por La Causa has ushered in a new era by appointing Alicia Nuñez as its president and CEO, marking the first time a woman will lead the organization in its 55-year stint, as announced on Wednesday.

Following her recent tenure as the organization's interim CEO, Nuñez steps into the role well-prepared, leveraging over two decades of expertise in financial and operational management having joined Chicanos Por La Causa in 2006 where she ascended through various key positions such as vice president of business enterprises and chief financial officer, as per Phoenix Business Journal.

Nuñez, in a heartfelt statement obtained by The Business Journal, expressed her honor and determination to helm the nonprofit, stating, "I am honored and humbled to serve as the president and CEO of CPLC,” and affirming her commitment to "working collaboratively with our dedicated team, supporters, and partners to drive positive change and continue to create lasting impact in our communities."

Her impressive experience extends beyond Chicanos Por La Causa as Nuñez serves on the board for Valleywise Health Foundation and the Southwest Folklife Alliance, is chair of Sí Se Vota CPLC Action Fund, graduated with a bachelor's degree from California State University Northridge and holds an MBA from the University of Arizona, demonstrating broad involvement and nuanced understanding of the needs in education and community health fields, according to ABC15.

The organization she now leads, Chicanos Por La Causa, established in 1969 to combat discrimination, has grown to become a pivotal community resource with a budget exceeding $218 million, securing its position as the second-largest nonprofit in Phoenix with a vast workforce that exceeds 2,000 employees and over a thousand volunteers, this expansion is detailed in the latest reports by the Phoenix Business Journal.