Hispanic Heritage Month: Elizabeth Guerrero Fonseca '09

In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, our Latinas Lead Club and Alumnae Office have partnered to create a Q&A series celebrating our trailblazing Hispanic alumnae!

Elizabeth Guerrero Fonseca '09 is a dedicated public affairs professional with extensive experience in community engagement and strategic communication. Currently, she serves as the Director of External Affairs & Community Engagement at the Illinois Department of Labor, where she oversees the department’s communication strategy and enhances stakeholder relationships.

Previously, Elizabeth was the Manager of Board Relations at Chicago Public Schools, acting as a vital liaison between the Board of Education and the CPS Executive Office. Her experience also includes serving as Deputy Director of Government Affairs in the Office of the Mayor of Chicago, where she cultivated strong relationships with elected officials and managed key projects and events.

A graduate of DePauw University with a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology, Elizabeth has further developed her advocacy skills through specialized training. Fluent in Spanish and French, she is passionate about using her language expertise to foster community engagement and drive meaningful change. Elizabeth currently lives in Chicago with her husband and their puppy, Max.

What is the biggest lesson you learned from Mother McAuley?
It's hard to choose just one lesson from my time at McAuley, as I've learned so much. Two key lessons stand out: the power of community and perseverance. McAuley taught me the importance of supporting one another and building strong relationships. Through teamwork on projects and navigating friendships, I discovered that we can achieve more together while uplifting each other. I also learned that while challenges can feel overwhelming, staying committed to my goals leads to personal growth and success. 

How did being Latina inspire your education?
As a first-generation Latina I've always known that I needed and wanted to work hard to make my parents proud. They sacrificed so much for my siblings and me to receive a quality education, and I realized that the best way to honor their efforts was through my dedication. For me, simply getting by was never an option; I aimed to be a stellar student. McAuley made this possible but not because the curriculum was easy, but because I felt genuinely supported by my teachers. Their encouragement inspired me to learn and strive for excellence. 

What career advice do you have for fellow Latinas at McAuley?
Embrace your unique strengths and stay true to your identity. Pursue your passions and dreams. Don't hesitate to ask questions and seek out mentors who can guide you and share their experiences. Education is a powerful tool, so take full advantage of the opportunities available to you at McAuley and beyond. Surround yourself with supportive peers and stay resilient - challenges are simply part of the journey!

What is your biggest accomplishment?
My biggest accomplishment has been building a fulfilling career that aligns with my passions and values. Over the years, I've successfully navigated various government roles, each one teaching me invaluable lessons about leadership, collaboration, and resilience. I'm proud of the relationships I've built with colleagues and mentors, as well as the positive impact I've made through my work. 

If you speak Spanish or a second language, how did it benefit you in your workplace?
Speaking Spanish has been a significant asset in my workplace. It allows me to communicate effectively with Spanish-speaking colleagues and community members, fostering stronger relationships, trust, and collaboration. Being bilingual helps bridge cultural gaps, making it easier to understand and address the needs of Spanish-speaking individuals. Additionally, it enables me to contribute to more inclusive discussions, ensuring that all voices are heard.