Born in Mexico City, Luisa moved to the United States at the age of five and has called Indy home ever since. She currently serves as the Community Outreach and Fan Engagement Manager for the iconic Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Luisa is responsible for executing experiential marketing activations and building diverse audiences for the “Racing Capital of the World” and the INDYCAR Series. She graduated from IUPUI with a Bachelor’s degree in Communication Studies and a minor in Latino Studies. Luisa’s career has included roles in community outreach and marketing at the Office of International and Latino Affairs for the Mayor of Indianapolis, Indy Eleven, and the Indy Chamber. Luisa is a strong and influential leader who contributes her time building a more welcoming Indianapolis community. Her interests include public policy, education, community building, and storytelling. Luisa was selected into the inaugural Indianapolis Business Journal “20 in their Twenties” class in August of 2021. She serves on various boards and committees that include: Prospanica, IndyHub, Immigrant Welcome Center, Paramount Health Data Project and the Indiana Latino Democratic Caucus. In her free time, you can catch Luisa hiking her favorite trails, enjoying a glass of natural wine, or taking a trip abroad. Luisa currently resides in Carmel, Indiana with her husband, Cole, and their Yorkie, Coco.
The 1828 Leadership Project, presented by Citizens Energy Group, is a civic leadership tract for Indy’s young leaders with the goal of fostering intentional relationships with a cross-sector of Indianapolis’ thought leaders and decision makers. Luisa is a part of 1828’s Class XI . Learn more about her below.
How do you spend your days? For example, you can tell us about your career, side hustle or exercise routine whatever you want to share. We’re ready to listen.
I am always down for an adventure. Whether its biking along the Monon Trail, exploring a state park or grabbing a bite from Milktooth, the garage in BottleWorks or Midtown Carmel – that’s typically how I like to spend my days. And can’t forget, during the Month of May I love decking out Indy with all things checkered and #500Fashion.
Great! Where are you from from? What made you choose to move here?
I was born in Mexico City and moved to Indianapolis when I was 5 years old. My family immigrated from Mexico for the chance to make the American Dream a reality. The American dream offered safety for my family and the chance to receive an education.
You’re off the clock, there are no expectations. What are you doing?
I am walking/biking the Monon Trail with my husband and dog, binge watching The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, or making a shopping trip to a local boutique.
When thinking about the future of Indianapolis, what are you most looking forward to in the next 5 years and why?
I am excited to see the up and coming talent making a positive impact in ensuring equity/diversity/equality are at the forefront of how we progress as a city. There’s so much to be said about how welcoming and open Indianapolis has become to those underrepresented communities and ensuring they have a voice where decisions are being made.
Are there any local causes that you support? What are they and how might others learn more or get involved?
I am the communications chair for the Indiana Latino Democratic Caucus (INLDC) – we are always looking for individuals to learn about the Caucus and volunteer their time in helping us reach Latinos in Indiana. It’s so important for our Latinx community to know their rights during the election process and the candidates they are voting for. We also want more elected officials to be Latinx and be representing the communities they serve. I also serve on the Prospanica Board and we are looking to connect Hispanic professionals to opportunities to advance their education. We offer many scholarships for those looking to obtain their MBA’s.
You have a day off and you’re in Indianapolis. Share the agenda for your perfect Indy day.
Visiting the Zionsville or Carmel Farmer’s Market on a Saturday morning. If it’s the month of May, checking out a practice session, qualifying day or attending the Indy 500. Grabbing a coffee from Tinker Street or a fresh-juice from Simplicity Juice. A 2-for-1 stop would be visiting Trader’s Point for brunch and capping it with a vanilla milkshake. Bonus: during the fall season, I love to visit their fall festival or walk around the grounds. If I want to check-out a new movie, I love making a visit to The Living Room Theatre in the Bottleworks district. Visiting Fort Harrison or Eagle Creek park to hike or riding my bike. BONUS: During winter, Fort Harrison has an epic sledding hill!
Indianapolis is a sprawling county, what’s your favorite part about our city?
I love Indianapolis for having all the attributes of a big city, but yet offers a low cost of living. No matter the season, you can find an event/experience for your family to enjoy.
If you were a superhero what would be your special trait? Why?
Reading people’s minds. I would use it for good in figuring out what brings people joy and how I can be of a support if they are going through a difficult time. Sometimes all people need is a smile to get them through their day.
You’re hosting an Indy-themed dinner party. What three guests are you inviting?
1. Jonathan Brooks – he would cook a delicious meal for my guests to enjoy.
2. Chef Ben from Gallery Pastry Shop – who doesn’t love a macaroon
3. Gloria Jimenez – Her style is impeccable, is super humble and caring for her community, and she is the life of the party
If you had to listen to one song for the rest of your life, what would it be?
“Another Day of Sun” – LaLa Land Original Soundtrack
What would you name the autobiography of your life?
Living the dream…..and other adventures along the way.
How do you define success?
Success, for me, will always be about making a difference in other people’s lives. Also it’s an upward trajectory in your skillset coupled with an openness to make mistakes and learn from them.
