Vol. 2, Iss. 8 | April 2021

RGV LEAD Ambassador Orientation Keynote Speaker

You can take the Valley girl out of the Valley but you can’t take the Valley out of the girl!
~ Juanita Baldwin, SHRM-CP, PHR Education and Outreach Coordinator
Texas Commission on Environmental Quality

Originally from Brownsville, Juanita Baldwin now lives and works in the Austin area, where she graduated from the University of Texas with a bachelor’s degree in Human Resources. Although she no longer lives in Brownsville, she was quick to point out that her roots are deeply embedded in the Rio Grande Valley; and she is passionate about growing the next generation of leaders.

As Baldwin addressed the RGV LEAD Ambassadors at the annual Spring Leadership Orientation, she proudly stated,

“My dreams were big. Your leadership journey begins today!”

She went on to share specific character traits that have guided her throughout her career journey.

“Values: what’s important to me? Your values serve as your compass. They lead you to where you want to go as you navigate your way thru high school and college

Passion: It’s feeling really strong about something; equated by the heart. What brings me joy? Sometimes you lose track of time when you’re passionate about something.

Impact: Influence how we motivate others. This comes from your relationships. Who do you connect with? Do you listen and pay attention?”

She mentioned that her 3rd-grade teacher from Putegnat Elementary in Brownsville was someone who had an impact on her. The teacher-guided and encouraged her to enter and win the spelling bee – a feat she will always remember.

“Curiosity: This is an ingredient for high-performing teams; people with different ideas come together for the good of the team.”

Ambassadors were quick to send Baldwin messages through the chat board thanking her for the motivational speech. They are certain to use her tips on a daily basis to help secure a successful future.

In closing, Baldwin enthusiastically said,

“You can take the Valley girl out of the Valley but you can’t take the Valley out of the girl!”

RGV LEAD wishes to thank Juanita Baldwin for reaching out to the RGV LEAD Ambassadors with her words of wisdom.

Juanita Baldwin, SHRM-CP, PHR Education and Outreach Coordinator
Texas Commission on Environmental Quality

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