Texas Familias Council of Montgomery County Presents Inaugural Conference

MONTGOMERY COUNTY, TEXAS - Recently, the Texas Familias Council of Montgomery County presented the first conference at Caney Creek High School in CISD for 240 11^th grade girls. The program is part of the Montgomery County Latina Initiative (MCLatina) started in 2012 to celebrate and support family life, leadership, and professions among diverse women in the county.

Maria Banos Jordan, President and Founder of the Texas Familias Council, introduced the program’s Legacy Leaders to students and invited accomplished women leaders to share their story of struggle and inspiration. The keynote speaker was Linda Vega, an attorney, businesswoman and former GOP candidate for Texas Senate. Vanessa Gonzales, Lone Star College System Director of the East Aldine Campus, and Janet Ruedas, scientist and contributor to special project work for NASA, also shared their inspirational messages with the students.

This effort was meant to connect communities, build leadership, and create pathways to success for girls and women. “I’m very grateful to Principal McClure and Caney Creek High School, and very proud of our MCLatina members as they reach beyond their own careers and families to help others. We are one community, and we have amazing talent that will contribute great things in the future with our guidance,” said Banos Jordan.

Eighteen MCLatina members greeted and guided the girls throughout the conference activities. Lone Star Family Health Center, Woodforest National Bank, Lone Star College Montgomery and Texas A&M Agrilife were on hand with activity booths. Woodforest National Bank donated a new laptop for one of the students, and Lone Star College Montgomery awarded three scholarships to three future students in attendance.

Gabby Cervantes, a Junior at Caney Creek, appreciated everything that went into the conference. “I enjoyed the different types of people who attended. I really enjoyed the activities, including the mirror activity, talking to businesses, and just expressing ourselves. The message I took away was to take chances, never give up, no matter what, even if you are scared- just go for it. Don’t let anything set you back because anything is possible, if you really want it.”

Dr. Don Stockton was on hand to greet the audience, and Judge Craig Doyal, Commissioner Jim Clark also encouraged the students to work hard toward their hopes. Judge Maryann Turner received the Inspired Leadership Award from the Council for her many years of service to the community and her efforts with the juvenile mental health court.

For more information about the Texas Familias Council/ MCLatina Initiative contact Maria Banos Jordan at 832-527-7251 or texasfamilias@outlook.com