Jolt Action

Diana Maldonado hired as Jolt’s Interim Executive Director

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Monday, July 18, 2022

CONTACT: Christine Bolaños, [email protected] , 512-767-2978

AUSTIN, Texas – Today, Diana Maldonado was named the new Interim Executive Director of Jolt Action and Jolt Initiative. A community, political and educational leader in the Central Texas region, Maldonado will drive forward the organizations’ mission to harness the power of young Latinos to transform Texas through their voice and their vote. 

Maldonado joins Jolt through her role as CEO and President of Maldonado Strategies, LLC, where she positions businesses for success and lasting impact. In her prior role as President and CEO of the Greater Austin Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, she implemented the CEO Speaker Series to bring dialogue and connections that impact Latino business and issues. 

She is the first Latina elected to represent Williamson County in the Texas House of Representatives during which time she authored and co-authored 88 bills and was named “Freshman of the Year” by her colleagues. She served in an Executive role for the Mexican American Legislative Caucus, was appointed to the State Affairs and Defense & Veterans Affairs Committees, served as President of the Round Rock ISD Board of Trustees and spent two decades building a career at the Texas State Comptroller’s Office. 

Jolt Action and Jolt Initiative are the largest civic engagement organizations for young Latinos in Texas. As Interim Executive Director, Maldonado will spearhead both organizations as they continue building the collective voice, power, and influence of Latinos across the Lone Star State. 

“Civic participation is one of our nation’s greatest strengths to ensure a strong democracy, and is reflective of our changing demographics,” Maldonado said. “Never has a time been so pivotal in a movement to engage young Latinos in the electoral process to impact policy and legislation with inclusivity and equitable outcomes.  I am excited to join and collaborate with a dynamic team and champion our voice through the various initiatives across the state.”

“Jolt Initiative is excited to welcome Diana Maldonado as our Interim Executive Director,” said Jolt Initiative Board Member Madge Vasquez. “Diana has served as a trusted advocate and community leader for over 30 years bringing deep experience in a range of sectors, from the private sector, nonprofit sector and government sector. As the first Latina to represent Williamson County in the Texas House of Representatives, Diana brings lived experience and professional expertise critical in helping Jolt lead through this important change moment in Texas.”

Jolt Action and Jolt Initiative are recognized for their one-of-a-kind and culturally relevant programming to reach young Latinos, empower them to become civically engaged and equip them with the tools and resources to become transformative leaders at their organizations and in their communities. Maldonado is joining the organizations at a transformative time for the state as its residents prepare for the November 8 General Election and confront a number of issues such as a flawed power grid, the coronavirus pandemic, an attack on the rights of women and the LGBTQ+ community, a failed border initiative that discriminates against migrant communities, and the climate crisis.

For media inquiries or to arrange an interview, contact our Communications Team at [email protected] 

ABOUT JOLT ACTION

Founded in 2016, Jolt Action is a progressive civic engagement organization focused on building the political power and influence of young Latinos in Texas. 

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