The Kyle Public Library was buzzing with connection and conversation during the Dialogue for Peace and Progress 2025 – Celebrating Hispanic Heritage on Saturday, October 4.
The dialogue was moderated by Dr. Gloria Velásquez, a native of Michoacán, México, who came to the United States at age 12. After teaching herself to read and write in both Spanish and English, Dr. Velásquez went on to earn her GED at 24 and has since become a longtime Spanish instructor at Texas State University. She is also an advisor to student organizations such as First-Generation Connect and Grupo Folklórico Ocotochtli.
The panel featured four local leaders who each brought their own unique experiences and perspectives to the conversation:
- Nelia Barrera
- With over 40 years as a business owner, Nelia Barrera is the current President of the Kyle Lions Club and a proud community leader. Her grandfather, Don Rosendo Barrera Guerra, was the first professor at a Texas-accredited school to teach all classes in Spanish.
- J.R. Gonzales
- J.R. Gonzales is Vice Chair of the Texas Association of Mexican American Chambers of Commerce (TAMACC) and a longtime advocate for Hispanic entrepreneurship. He is a former President and CEO of the U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and now hosts the Latino Business Report podcast, where he highlights stories that inspire and empower the Hispanic business community.
- Mario Mata Jr.
- Born to migrant parents in South Texas, Mario Mata Jr. is a dedicated community advocate. He holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Southwest Texas State University, works for the Texas Department of Transportation, and volunteers with Hays Latinos United and the Kyle Lions Club.
- Anita Azenet Collins
- A U.S. Navy veteran and community historian, Anita Azenet Collins serves as Chair of the San Marcos Main Street Board and on multiple Hays County boards, including the Historical Commission. As a founding member of the Council for the Indigenous and Tejano Community (CITC), she helps preserve the stories of Indigenous and Mexican Americans in Hays County through oral history projects, exhibits, and public education.
The discussion explored what Hispanic heritage means to each panelist, the traditions that shape their identity, and how all members of the community can work together to build understanding and unity.
The Dialogue for Peace and Progress series continues to provide a platform for open, honest conversations that bring Kyle residents closer together, one dialogue at a time.
Watch the Dialogue for Peace and Progress – Celebrating Hispanic Heritage 2025:
