Oscar Baeza Statement

Reformistas,

My involvement with Reforma stretches back to 2008 when I volunteered and assisted with the Reforma National Conference in El Paso, TX. Then I learned about the greatness of this association and have since worked to uphold the vision of the organization. On a national level, I have served as Reforma’s Nomination Committee Chair (2009 & 2011) and as Chapter Representative (2012-2016). At a local level, I have served as president of the El Paso Chapter and now as national liaison. The experience I gained from Reforma has elevated me to other positions and honors. I was proud to moderate the workshop “Reforma and Tomorrow’s Leaders” at the Reforma National Conference IV in Denver, Co. 2011. In 2012, at ALA’s Annual Conference in Anaheim, Ca. I was also thrilled to moderate the Reforma President’s Program “Leadership is an Urgency.” My dedication to Reforma have earned me a positive reputation of which I am proud.  In 2013, I was given one of the most prestigious awards Reforma offers, the Dr. Arnulfo D. Trejo Librarian of the Year Award. An award I cherish and look at every day when I enter my office. The award reminds me that the work in our profession is never done. I have also continued my work advocating for Reforma and other librarians within the American Library Association (ALA). Currently, I am a counselor at-large for ALA and have been nominated to chair the resolutions committee. Furthermore, in 2017 I along with other library leaders published a book on leadership; “Choosing to Lead”, edited by Dr. Antonia P. Olivas.

The position of Reforma president calls for leadership, communication, and organization skills; most important though, it calls for a passion to lead and move this organization forward. All of Reforma presidents have represented our organization with pride and integrity. Every single one of them has left something precious for us to learn and build on, in order to continue the vision of our founders. I make no promises to what my presidency, if elected, will accomplish. But I will assure that I will rest at night praying for the future of Reforma and wake in the morning thinking on how we can turn our hopes into certainty. On my website you will find a little more about me, please visit https://reformabaeza.wixsite.com/obreformapresident for more information.

I have dedicated my career to the advancement of Latinas/os and wish to continue working in this capacity. Therefore, I humbly ask for your support for Reforma National President.

Thank you

Oscar Baeza