Beeville, Texas — Coastal Bend College celebrated Hispanic Heritage Month with an inspiring event titled “Heritage in Action: Inspiring Career Paths & Cultural Experience Panel” on October 15 at the Grady C. Hogue Learning Resource Center on the Beeville campus. The discussion brought together influential community and business leaders who shared how their Hispanic and Latino heritage shaped their professional success and lifelong commitment to service.
Panelists included (listed as they appear in panel lineup):
Dr. Zachary Suarez – President of Coastal Bend College. A proud community college graduate and higher education leader with extensive experience in student success and institutional growth.
Louie Alaniz – Local business leader with Aztec Chevrolet, part of a family-owned dealership group known for supporting community initiatives and student athletics.
Criste Bleibdrey – Owner of CC’s Juice Smoothie Coffee Bar, recognized for her leadership in small business and advocacy for mental health awareness.
Lola Castro – President of the Beeville Banking Center for Prosperity Bank, with over 30 years of leadership experience in banking and community business development.
Annette Sanchez – Principal of Hampton-Moreno-Dugat Early Childhood Center in Beeville and Zone 8 Director for the National Association of Elementary School Principals.
Your roots aren’t a limit — they’re a launch pad.
— Criste Bleibdrey
The event drew an engaged audience of students, faculty, and community members, who participated in a lively Q&A session and connected with the panelists following the discussion. The warm and collaborative atmosphere captured the spirit of Hispanic Heritage Month—celebrating culture, connection, and achievement across generations.
The event was hosted by the CBC Division of Student Success & Engagement. For more information on upcoming events, visit coastalbend.edu/events.
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