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She is a Latina. She is a leader. She is a visible member of her community. She is a daughter. She is a servant leader. And Brenda Munoz is also, so much more than all of that.
As we celebrate Women’s History Month, Laurie McGraw speaks with Brenda Munoz, Associate Benefits Director at the Laborers Funds Administrative Office of Northern California, Inc. From a temporary administrative analyst to a key leadership role, Brenda’s journey is nothing short of remarkable. Brenda’s story reminds us of the progress made and the work still needed to achieve gender equity in leadership. The weight of her position, representing her family, her community, and the hopes of future Latina leaders, fuels her dedication to serving the laborers and transforming the lives of her team.
Did you know that while women make up nearly half of the U.S. workforce, Latina women hold only about 2% of management or executive positions? This stark reality underscores the weight Brenda feels to lead and represent her community. Brenda shares the pivotal “wake-up call” that shifted her focus to servant leadership and her deep connection to her Hispanic heritage, which fuels her passion for empowering women and ensuring access to vital benefits. Brenda’s story is a powerful reminder that leadership isn’t about titles, but about impact.
She reveals how she fosters self-reliance within her team, champions open communication and strives to create a better experience for both employees and the union members they serve. Discover how Brenda’s vision is shaping the future of benefits administration and empowering the next generation of leaders.
Key Takeaways:
- The power of a personal “wake-up call” to redefine your purpose.
- How servant leadership can transform organizations.
- The importance of empowering women and fostering self-reliance.
- Creating a vision for improved member and employee experiences.
- Believing in your own power and potential to lead.
Guest Resources:
About Brenda:
Brenda Munoz serves as the Associate Benefits Director at the Labor's Fund of Northern California, where she plays a pivotal role in overseeing the benefits administration for approximately 30,000 laborers. With over a decade of experience in the organization, Brenda’s journey began as a temporary administrative analyst, where her dedication and passion for service quickly set her apart. Her rise through the ranks exemplifies her commitment to making a meaningful impact in the lives of workers and their families.
Brenda is a firm believer in the principles of servant leadership, which guide her approach to management and team development. She emphasizes the importance of open communication and empowers her team by providing them with the tools they need to succeed. Her focus on creating a supportive environment fosters not only individual growth but also enhances the overall member experience.
A proud daughter of immigrant parents, Brenda is deeply connected to her Hispanic heritage, which inspires her advocacy for equitable access to benefits and resources. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Art/Art Studies from Colgate University, blending creativity with analytical skills to drive innovative solutions in benefits administration. Through her work, Brenda continues to inspire others, championing women in leadership and striving to create positive change within her community.
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